Pianotech

  • 1.  Tuning Pin Torque

    Posted 10-29-2024 00:08

    I would like to know the consensus about the range of pin torque a few years (say: 5) after a piano has received a new soundboard, pin block and restringing.  

    • What is the target torque you shoot for? (inch pounds)
    • What would be an acceptable range across the spectrum? (20? 30? 40 inch pounds?)
    • What would be the absolute lowest (or highest) torque that could be considered acceptable?

    This would be assuming the instrument has been kept in a moderate, temperate climate regime and not subjected to heavy use or many tunings.

    [I have my own thoughts and am looking for confirmation - or not!]

    Thanks advance!

     



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    Jurgen Goering
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  • 2.  RE: Tuning Pin Torque

    Member
    Posted 10-29-2024 01:37

    There is an article in the PTG Journal showing tuning pin torque ranges. 20-30-40 inch pounds are way too low . I think either 50 0r 60 may be the minimum acceptable with little to know risk of slippage. I will try to find the guide or at least post the journal issue and date



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    James Kelly
    Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
    Pawleys Island SC
    (843) 325-4357
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  • 3.  RE: Tuning Pin Torque

    Member
    Posted 10-29-2024 01:51

    January 1993 PTG Journal article by Nick Gravagne



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    James Kelly
    Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
    Pawleys Island SC
    (843) 325-4357
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Tuning Pin Torque

    Posted 10-31-2024 00:55

    Thank you James, that is a starting point.

    I understand that pins under 30 - 40 inch pounds are probably going to slip in the dry season.

    My questioning  is related to how much torque one can reasonably expect a few years after a rebuild, and where the cut-off to unacceptable is. I.e was a rebuild done properly...

    Is there any reason a rebuild should not last as long as a new build?



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    Jurgen Goering
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    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Tuning Pin Torque

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 10-31-2024 07:11
    Jurgen

    A properly drilled block should behave the same and last as long as a block from the factory.

    Wim



    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: Tuning Pin Torque

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 10-31-2024 07:49

    On new pianos or good rebuilds i like to see torque > 200 inch pounds to start.  That will later drop to 130-140.



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    Parker Leigh RPT
    Winchester VA
    (540) 722-3865
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