"Max's Cardboard Shim" Technique for Loose Tuning Pin in The Grand Piano.How fix

[themaximillyan]

Purpose: The primary purpose of a cardboard shim for a loose tuning pin is to enhance the grip between the pin and the wooden components of the piano, namely the bush and pinblock. With the installation of a cardboard shim between the pin and these components, there is an increase in surface friction which strengthens the security of the pin, preventing it from slipping or moving.

Materials: Thick cardboard (near 3mm) Scissors Instructions for a Grand Piano:

1 Remove the tuning pin and inspect the pinblock and bush for any damage or wear.

2 Cut a piece of cardboard to the appropriate size. The size should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the pin so that it can fit between the pin and the pinblock.

3 Insert the cardboard shim into the hole in the pinblock from the TOP.

4 Use a T-bar wrench to screw the pin back into place.

The "Max's Cardboard Shim" technique is a temporary solution. Loose tuning pins may eventually require more intensive repair or replacement.

Addition information how it's work for upright piano:

Cardboard shim for loose tuning pin This is a cost-effective method of fixing a loose tuning pin. It avoids de-tuning adjacent strings, which can happen with methods that involve hammering tuning pins in. First, turn the tuning pin enough to slacken the string coils. Then, using a narrow (but strong) screwdriver or an awl, lever the end of the string out of the tuning pin hole. (This point in the string is called the 'becket'). Lever against the tuning pin itself to prise the string out. Now unscrew the tuning pin completely, leaving the string and coils in place. From some corrugated cardboard about 2mm or 3mm thick, cut a piece 20mm by 50mm. Insert this strip into the tuning pin hole (It may be helpful to curve the cardboard round a screwdriver shaft first, to make it easier to insert into the tuning pin hole). Firmly start the tuning pin into the hole, with the cardboard shim in place. Carefully turn the tuning pin into the hole, going quite slowly so as to avoid a build-up of heat. Turn the pin all the way in, to the same level as before. Carefully insert the end of the string (the 'becket') back into the tuning pin hole, using suitable pliers. Make sure that the string coils are kept tight, using a stringing hook or a screwdriver. Tune the string to pitch. The cardboard shim method will keep the pin tight for years and does not involve glue.