Pin block Replacement Overview – How a Piano Pin block is Restored

Pin block Replacement Overview How a Piano Pin block is Restored

The pin block of a piano is one of its most essential components, directly affecting the tuning stability and playability of the instrument. A block that will not hold the proper torque to the pin may need replacement. The causes of a "weak" block are due to several factors including amount of usage, age, and the climate and humidity level that the piano has been exposed to.

The majority of pin block replacements are performed on grand, baby grand pianos. Upright pianos (vertical) and square grand pianos are much more difficult to replace due to the location of the block and the way that it is mortised to the case. Certain grand piano brands or models can be challenging to replace also, many German made pianos such as Bechstein have a deeply angled plate apron that will require more time and skill to complete.

To replace a pin block all the dampers, strings and pins must be removed. The plate then must be lifted away, careful measurements should be made of the plate location before removing screws, also be sure to keep all screws in order so they can be replaced in the original location. In some grand models such as Steinway and Mason Hamlin the block is fastened by dowels or screws to the case, in other styles such as some older Chickering grands the block is only attached to the plate.

Depending on the size of the grand piano, removing the plate may require a hoist, or the help of at least 2 other people. Make sure the lid prop and music desk support blocks are removed so the plate will clear the case. Remember the plate is the heaviest component of the piano, made from cast iron. Take special caution not to drop it as it will crack and is near impossible to repair.

Once the old pin block is removed, the process of duplicating a new block can start. The new block will have to be carefully cut and shaped so it will fit snugly against the angled apron of the frame and tightly against the face of the bottom of the plate so that good tuning stability is achieved. The large cuts are usually performed with a band saw then smaller hands tools such as shapers and chisels are used to insure a snug fit. After the block has been fitted to the plate and to the case of the piano and the plate screw holes have been drilled the process of drilling the pin holes can begin.

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