1. Hammer Butt Spring Replacement: English and European Actions
The previous newsletter described the process of replacing Hammer Butt Return Springs on
an older American upright piano action, where it’s usual for all the springs to be fitted along
a separate rail. It is more usual on English and European actions to have the Hammer Butt
Return Springs fitted into the Hammer Butts, engaging with a cord loop on the Hammer
Flange. This article illustrates the replacement of broken springs on an 1880s Bechstein
upright piano.
The photo below shows a Hammer Butt with a broken Return Spring. There should be a tail
about an inch long with a hook at the end, but it has broken off.
First, it is necessary to remove the remainder of the broken Spring. The photo below shows
it being gently prised out here with a pair of tweezers, but an awl might be better.