I would not hesitate to apply a solution of "All" fabric softener and alcohol (and possibly H2O) to the hammers. I have had remarkable success with this concoction (I did not dream it up and it has been discussed here several times).
Ratio: 1 part All : 2 parts alcohol for general purpose usage. If more effect is needed add up to one part water.
I use Everclear 190. You can use industrial denatured alcohol if you want but you don't necessarily know what the water content of it is. Your choice.
I use a spent Cory Key bright pump sprayer bottle and shield other parts with my other hand and fingers. After a few minutes of penetration (5-15) follow up with a light wire brushing of the strike points. If more seems to be needed, add some water and re-apply. Finally, light needling of persistent outliers should tidy things up.
Under the aforementioned circumstances (you mentioned) I fail to see any legitimate concerns regarding the efficacy of this procedure. You should find it to be a very effective tool in your voicing "bag of tricks". Just like CBL I don't leave home without it. Nothing but success with it.
Peter Grey Piano Doctor
P.S. If they are truly incorrigibly rock hard, I use VS-Profelt (not sprayed) with care. It is slower acting but more powerful. Use with caution.
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Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 08-05-2022 07:53
From: Larry Messerly
Subject: Voicing ideas for Baldwin Spinet and Otto Altenberg Grand
Because of code of ethics #5 I will render the best possible service under the circumstances, always keeping the best interests of my client in mind
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Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292
Original Message:
Sent: 08-05-2022 06:58
From: Jon Page
Subject: Voicing ideas for Baldwin Spinet and Otto Altenberg Grand
New hammers are needed. Bending over backwards will only delay this. Why do we keep pianos limping along?
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Regards,
Jon Page
mailto:jonpage@comcast.net
http://www.pianocapecod.com
Original Message:
Sent: 08-04-2022 22:13
From: James Kelly
Subject: Voicing ideas for Baldwin Spinet and Otto Altenberg Grand
The Baldwin is a circa 1975 spinet that was 108 cents flat due to neglect/nonuse. It is a family heirloom and overall needs tlc . Tight pinblock and in very good overall condition - no rust, string issues, good damping, decent regulation. I am returning tomorrow after doing 3 pitch raises 2 weeks ago. Looking for some fast tips to get some of the harsh percussion out of the hammers that are rock hard, have some flat strike points and mild string cuts. I think a little shoeshining of hammer felt will help and maybe some hammer squeezing and/or side needling.
Piano 2 is a straight strung grand that has more flatter strike points, medium string cuts. I am thinking the starting point is to shape and file the hammers, align to the strings and do something to the super hard hammers. It needs some action regulation for blow, rep spring strength, backcheck height and letoff. I have worked on the piano in the past and it is so percussive it can hurt your ears on certain notes. It was owned by a teacher who liked it as it is and did not want anything done to it. New owner is one of her former students who is quite good but would benefit from a well regulated and sounding piano. I believe the piano is 1970's or 1980's Model is OA-510
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James Kelly
Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
Pawleys Island SC
(843) 325-4357
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