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Hello everyone. On the jacks (I hope that is the correct term), which are usually lubricated with liquid graphite, the wood is starting to become clearly visible, while the pusher retains its layer of graphite. The rollers do not seem excessively worn to me (a slight sign of wear). My question is whether this decrease in graphite on the jacks can create excessive friction. If so, what interventions might be needed? Thank you all and very best regards. Have a good day
Moderator
I believe those rollers were wetted and then lubricated; some even technically incompetent people do this. Perhaps they think it makes the mechanics run smoother....but it doesn't. I recommend brushing the rollers in the direction of the grain with a small brass brush, then finishing them with 350 and 500 grit sandpaper. After that, apply a minimum amount of liquid graphite (but not greasy) to the supports and polish the graphite itself once dry. The rollers can be protected with Teflon powder (not talcum!)
Member
Thank you, Maestro Ferrarelli. I was thinking about replacing the rollers (and therefore the hammers, styli, and forking/pivots) also because I saw that the same rollers have been pierced with plaster in order to reduce their noise. A very unusual maneuver, I believe. Anyway, considering the wear of the other parts as well, I believe the best solution would be the replacement of all parts, obviously re-graphiting the jacks with liquid graphite as you suggest. Thank you. Have a good day everyone
Moderator
Certainly, whoever replaces the complete hammer with styli with expertise will also take care to graphite the rests. The graphite must not be thick; just enough to be polished!!! Drilling the rollers is useless and weakens them. When a slight noise and resistance from them is felt, they should be brushed, sanded with 500-grit paper, cleaned, and then if necessary, passed a graphite stick, just enough. If you possess Teflon micro-powder, even better. The noise, even with new rollers, can occur even if the rests are grafitied. Sometimes it depends on the felt, which is rightly ecological, but compared to real felt is a bit stiffer. Therefore, if necessary, just one pass with a soft graphite stick (which can be purchased in an art supply store).
In case of component replacement, order identical or perfectly compatible parts.
Your trusted technician will certainly know how to advise you.
Moderator
James makes an excellent clarification!!! It is important that the diameter and width of the rollers are identical to the originals, as well as the height of the stylus forks. The hammer head must be of the same shape and weight as the original. The tails of the hammers must be shaped identically.
