Smith & Barnes piano

rich31462 · Post by **rich31462** » 07 Dec 2006, 22:44

We think we have an old Smith and Barnes upright grand piano if there is a serial number where would it be? Also there are some items that will need to be restored where do I get parts for this piano. Is there a certain stain used or was it generic on all piano's? And also where do we get Ivory keys? I am new to antique restoration and this is my first Piano is there something special that will need to be done? I usually take the piece apart but I do not know anything about pianos can you help PLEASE!!!!

Post by **Bill Kibby** » 08 Dec 2006, 00:21

We don't see them over here, so can't advise about locations of numbers, but they are often easily visible inside the top of a piano. While I admire your enthusiasm to restore the piano, the questions you ask are a lot simpler than the answers. You don't "get ivory keys", the normal thing is to recover the existing (wooden) keys with new ivory or a substitute. Wood finishing is a complex matter, many different stains were used, and many varieties of french polish or more modern finishes on top of the stain.

rich31462 · Post by **rich31462** » 08 Dec 2006, 13:53

Sir:
My next question is the piano is missing the center pedal is this pedal different from other pianos or can I get just any pedal. we have found a serial number and I am told it is a five digit begining in 1 I will need to clean the plate as the numbers are very hard to read.
Thank You for your timely return .
Rich

Post by **Bill Kibby** » 08 Dec 2006, 15:58

Most American pianos seem to have 3 pedals, most others have two. Is there a hole for it? I can't advise you about supplies in the States, you need to ask a tuner-technician. Linkages to pedals vary enormously, and it is unlikely that it will simply slide in there without further work. Sorry if I sound negative, we just don't have the "local" knowledge you need this side of the ocean.

rich31462 · Post by **rich31462** » 08 Dec 2006, 16:17

Sir:
It seems like the pedal was sheered off so it will need a new pedal. when I get it in my shop I will take pictures of it and send you if you want. I must say thanks for all your information and I will let you know how everything turns out. I am starting a data base on my computer for my restoration business and if it is OK with you I will add you to it. I have taken over two older gentlemans businesses and this is what I was told I should do.
Thanks again for all your help
Rich

Tom Tuner · Post by **Tom Tuner** » 13 Jan 2007, 18:20

If you have saved the broken off portion the cast-iron stem can be TIG welded, or brazed (you could do this yourself), but if there is a brass toe cap remove it first as the heat of repairing the iron will damage the brass. If part of the pedal is entirely missing a new set can be obtained from Schaff Piano Supply. There may not be an exact match available, but there is a choice of designs that should be reasonably close to the original including the peculiar design found on player pianos. Most replacements have alternate hole locations for the pedal pins, or they can easily be drilled to fit most pianos. No, you cannot buy a single replacement piano pedal unless you find someone who has salvaged some from junked pianos.

Tom Tuner