Pianotech

  • 1.  when to CA glue a pinblock

    Posted 3 hours ago

    Hi. This question is about CA gluing old pinblocks that won't hold the pins.

    I've gotten advice from techs ranging from on one end...

    "I've never used CA glue on a pinblock. I've been able to solve every problem by driving in pins or replacing them with larger pins." ...or... "CA glue is a last resort. It will last one year and then the pinblock is done. You won't even be able to put in larger pins."

    ...to the other end...

    "This 40 year old piano has two slightly loose pins. Time for the CA glue. It will last a few years, and then we can just do it again an unlimited number of times."

    And then everything in between. The two extreme ends both sound unreasonable to me. But based on the advice I've received, I am understandably unclear about when to break out the CA glue, how long it will last, and what to tell customers. I have a 100+ year old piano coming up that will barely hold tune, and I am going to have to deal with it at some point pretty soon. Is there a definitive story on when to do the CA glue treatment and how long it will last? Thanks.



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    Jonathan Saunders
    Bartlett TN
    (901) 613-5017
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  • 2.  RE: when to CA glue a pinblock

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 3 hours ago

    Hello,

    Of course, a piano that is still under warranty is not a good candidate for CA treatment. 

    For virtually any other piano, I would say yes-provided the procedure is done properly and cleanly.

    We use fresh thin CA glue, applied with a new 20 mL syringe fitted with a blunt needle. This gives us excellent control over the amount and placement of the glue while minimizing the risk of making a mess.

    With an upright, we tip the piano onto its back. After applying the CA to each small section of the pinblock, we immediately place a baby wipe over that section. It helps contain the fumes while the glue cures.

    In our experience, the treatment can remain effective for many years. Best to advise the client that there are no guarantees, as every pinblock and every piano is different. Used in the right circumstances, however, CA treatment can be a very effective way to restore tuning stability and extend the service life of an older pinblock.


    Allan Sutton, m.mus. RPT, TEC

    www.pianotechniquemontreal.com






  • 3.  RE: when to CA glue a pinblock

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 25 minutes ago
    Jonathan.

    I have used CA glue on a few pianos, but only on a limited basis. One was a 75 year old piano in basically good condition, except for the bass end. On another, I applied CA on a few very bad pins on a very old grand which was not worth rebuilding. From my experience, CA glue is long lasting. 





  • 4.  RE: when to CA glue a pinblock

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 21 minutes ago
    I need to add that, in my opinion, CA glue is good for a couple of pins, at most a section, like the bass end. But I would not use CA glue on 100 year old grand piano. That one would get a new block.