I have pulled a few lyres apart and reglued them. I removed the wedges (saw) and was careful to clean surfaces and apply glue (TItebond) thoroughly to all surfaces, then put it back together and install new wedges. (this is mostly a hammer job, with a mallet, then clamp when together). 50% of the time the joint failed again - creaking and gradually pulling loose. (These were very high use pianos).
Someone suggested just applying extra-thin CA. I did so for the next three that came along, applying it at the top of each joint around the full perimeter (ie, top of the dowel exposed at both top and bottom of the lyre, some disassembly required to get access). Results: 5 - 10 years of no problems, meaning that by the time I had retired none of the CA'd lyres had recurring problems.
I suspect others may have different experiences, but this is from 35 years in a music department. I had done what I thought was a thorough and permanent fix and experienced failure, then tried something I thought would be impermanent and found it worked. Time saved was considerable. I did soak the CA in pretty thoroughly, and used EXTRA-THIN CA (That is, as with loose tuning pins, any thicker CA is not appropriate and is likely to fail and leave you worse off).
Original Message:
Sent: 4/23/2023 1:59:00 PM
From: Kevin Fortenberry
Subject: RE: pipe clamp for grand lyres: pipe length?
Mine works great…it's a 36" pipe. Since you are trying to push apart you may be able to get by with some 24" pipes. But it seems to me the 36" ones are perfect for future use…both pulling apart & clamping up. It's "SOUNDS" too long but with the clamps on the ends, they're just right. Pic attached.
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Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Longview, TX 75602
806-778-3962
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-23-2023 12:19
From: Scott Cole
Subject: pipe clamp for grand lyres: pipe length?
I've heard about using a reverse-mounted pipe clamp to get grand lyres apart for repair. I picked up a clamp for 3/4" pipe--can anyone recommend a good pipe length that will work with most lyres? I'm not afraid to go a little short and use wood blocks if needed.
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Scott Cole, RPT
rvpianotuner.com
Talent, OR
(541-601-9033
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