Pianotech

Who has installed current issue 17mm SS shanks but retained original whips (because they're in great shape even though teflon)?

Issue is getting proper let-off requires turning the buttons up significantly such that they are perilously close to the bottom of the let-off rail. They still work perfectly well, but I'm thinking down the road as wear takes it's toll and re-regulating requires further movement upwards...problems might ensue.

Any who have done this, have you replaced either the cloth with thinner material, or replaced the buttons entirely with shorter dimension buttons, or perhaps both? 

Looking for advice before I forge ahead.

EDIT: Additionally, do "Crescendo" regulating punchings actually make any difference or is it a gimmick?

Peter Grey Piano Doctor 

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Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com
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Replace with shorter buttons.  Very easy and very fast.  Use an electric screwdriver, socket part only, turn them up until the old one falls off and then hold the new button to the rail with your finger and turn it down.  Can be done in 15 minutes.  

Renner sells the buttons in two sizes; 4 mm and 8 mm.  You'll want the 4 mm and if you ever change the wippens then you've done everything in advance.  

...on crescendo let of buttons, I can't say it's a gimmick but not sure the need.  When changing the let-off button the important part is that the buttons are the right height and that they receive the let off screw well (which the Renner ones do, Schaff, not so much), not the type of felt that's on them.  

Thanks David, just what I was looking for. 

4mm on the wood?  I have a set from PianoTek at 5/32" on the wood which is darn close to 4mm.  With cloth glued on about 5.5 mm. 

Peter Grey Piano Doctor