At Austin’s Piano Service, we often come across pianos with components that reflect the materials and craftsmanship of their time. Recently, I worked on a 1958 Kohler & Campbell spinet piano in Teaneck, NJ. This charming instrument, literally found on the street by its current owner, had plastic elbow connectors that needed replacement to restore its functionality.
The Problem: Brittle Plastic Elbows
This 1958 Kohler & Campbell spinet featured plastic elbow parts designed to connect the lifter wire from the back of the key to the whippens, which move the hammers forward. Unfortunately, the plastic used in these parts was manufactured during the early days of plastic production. Over time, the material became brittle, causing several pieces to break during tuning.
The Solution: Replacing All Plastic Elbows
To ensure the long-term functionality of the piano, I recommended replacing the entire set of plastic elbow connectors. Here’s how the process unfolded:
- Breaking the Old Elbows
- The first step was to remove the original plastic elbows. Using specialized pliers, I carefully broke the old, brittle pieces. They snapped easily due to their fragile state, but the process created a bit of a mess.
- Cleaning the Mechanism
- After breaking and removing the old parts, I cleaned up the area to prepare for the installation of the new connectors. Attention to detail was essential to ensure a smooth replacement process.
- Installing New GE Lexan Plastic Elbows
- I installed durable GE Lexan plastic elbows, a modern material known for its exceptional strength and longevity. These new connectors are designed to withstand decades of use, ensuring the piano’s reliability.
Bringing the Piano Back to Life
With the new parts securely installed, I performed a full tuning to bring the piano back to A-440 concert pitch. The transformation was remarkable—this once-neglected street find is now a fully functional instrument with a bright future ahead.
Why Component Upgrades Matter
Replacing worn or outdated parts like these plastic elbows not only restores a piano’s functionality but also extends its lifespan. By addressing mechanical weaknesses, we ensure the instrument can continue to provide music and joy for years to come.
Trust Austin’s Piano Service for Expert Repairs
As a member of the Piano Technicians Guild, I’m committed to preserving and revitalizing pianos of all makes, models, and ages. Whether your piano needs routine maintenance or specialized repairs like this one, I’m here to help.
If your piano is in need of professional care, contact Austin King today. Together, we can give your instrument a new lease on life—just like this Kohler & Campbell spinet from Teaneck, NJ.