I would reiterate what Ed said in that jack stress from another source (one that should not be there) is likely the jack-breaker rather than just high humidity. Very little stress on that joint when everything is operating as designed.
Original Message:
Sent: 03-12-2023 21:29
From: James Kelly
Subject: Pros & Cons of WNG Reps
Ditto .... use thin CA Glue to bond the toe to the leg of the jack but make sure them toes are seated fully.. Be careful that the glue does not drip on the keys so cover the keys. You could use medium CA but thin will find its way better Do them all not just loose ones
------------------------------
James Kelly
Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
Pawleys Island SC
(843) 325-4357
Original Message:
Sent: 03-12-2023 18:29
From: Steven Rosenthal
Subject: Pros & Cons of WNG Reps
The one S&S in which I've run into this issue was built in the early 70's and the problem was glue failure. Ed's suggestion of repairing the jacks seems the most efficient. Actually, they can be tested and reglued in the piano. Tails that haven't failed yet can probably be repaired preemptively by applying a drop of thin CA glue. But rest assured, in time they will all go if left unattended.
------------------------------
Steven Rosenthal RPT
Honolulu HI
(808) 521-7129
Original Message:
Sent: 03-12-2023 16:57
From: David Stanwood
Subject: Pros & Cons of WNG Reps
I had a similar concerns replacing parts for a Steinway in Havana. Humidity challenges are similar to Hawaii. They dimensionally they were perfect. Low CP friction is something to check. Still working beautifully after 6 years and counting.
The only unusual issue I've had with WNG reps was many years ago. I was working and teaching with Anne Garee at FSU. We were trying to regulate a very early set of WNG wippens. The rep spring would have a proper rise upon release from the check but the jack would not go back under the knuckle at rest no matter what we did. We got the wippen to regulate after adding 2grams to the scale #8 hammer. This was not a solution! We found that the wire was very stiff by comparison to typical modern reps. Replacing the spring with a lighter wire solved the issue. We called WNG to give feedback. That set may have been from some of their first production and the issue was set right early on. Indeed this is a general design consideration... that the rep springs wires match the hammer weight levels. If one is using extra light hammers (scale #5 or lower) this is something to consider if you see that symptom.
------------------------------
David Stanwood RPT
Stanwood Piano Innovations Inc.
West Tisbury MA
(508) 693-1583
Original Message:
Sent: 03-12-2023 15:15
From: Dan McElrath
Subject: Pros & Cons of WNG Reps
Afternoon,
I have a number of clients on the island of Maui where humidity is a major factor. I have a Steinway M client that is having chronic issues with jack tails coming unglued from the jack stem (These are the 2 part rascals). As I only get there once a year I was considering replacing the reps with WNG's which should eliminate that problem and have no issues related to humidity. I have used a few sets of the WNG hammer shanks/flanges but not had any experience with the reps. Would love any input on the pros & cons from someone who has experience in working with this product.
Thanks in Advance
Dan McElrath
------------------------------
Dan McElrath RPT
Biloxi MS
(228) 351-9551
------------------------------