KS 28: Gauging the Plan - Part 2

KS 28: Gauging the Plan - Part 2

So next, the worn backchecks come out and new backchecks go in. WNG backchecks are very height-sensitive with their checking surface abbreviated for better clearance and closer-to-string catching. To determine their optimum height, I compared old and new and ran samples. The original backchecks were higher in the bass and lower in the treble to work with hammer tails longer in the bass and shorter in the treble. Since I'll be custom boring the replacement hammers, I'll make all tails one inch. And all the new backchecks will then be the same height.  I removed the old backchecks using a shop-scrap jig and pry bar, then drilled holes larger for greater-diameter WNG backcheck wires.
Continue reading
KS 27: Gauging the Plan - Part 1

KS 27: Gauging the Plan - Part 1

The ideal is to have this 1930 Mason & Hamlin A play as if it were new. With this in mind, which parts and materials can be kept? Which are too compromised? Is there budget and a route to achieving such an ideal? Cheapest kind may be appropriate for getting a few more seasons out of the 93-year-old, but it won't regulate or voice or play to its potential that way...
Continue reading