Capstans and Backchecks, Steinway and WNG 2024-08

A Steinway piano technician asked our shop to rebuild his client's piano. He required that the parts to be traditional Steinway parts instead of the WNG parts which we usually use. For this unique request, the shop owner Mr. Jude Reveley ordered parts from both Steinway factory and Schaff Piano Supply. I believe, to contact Steinway, one may need to email [email protected] to see the catalogue and price. 

Before drilling any holes, the capstan and backcheck locations are marked on the keys. Jude picked the capstan spot at 0.5 key ratio point and backcheck spot according to WNG Backcheck Line & Height Jig. The last two pictures show the difference between the two brands installed on a testing sugar pine piece.

Steinway backchecks have more leathered hammer tail contact surface and the body made of wood. The WNG body is made of composite. Both brands use felt between the body and surface leather. Note that the two brands have their own insert jigs.

The Steinway capstans are made of brass, very classy and elegant. The WNG capstans are made of aluminum with a shiny noir colored coating. In general, brass parts weigh more than aluminum parts, which means that the number of key leads will be different in front of the keys.

To drill for capstans, the two brands share the same 4mm drill bit. Drill as deep as the capstan can go, yet not drilling through the key stick. Counter sink for ease of installation, or the wood will swell on top during capstan installation. 

The pictures above show difference between the two brands. The Steinway brass has the old time fancy, and the WNG aluminum is sleek and lightweight.

The backcheck is drilled at 20 degree angle with #35 drill bit, same bit shared by the two brands. The whole is drilled through the key stick. We often find the backchecks need to be regulated as low as they can go. Drilling through prevents the wire cracking the wood on bottom of keys. That backcheck insert jig is homemade. Note that the hammer tail contact surface on the WNG backcheck is smaller. This enhances a faster hammer return.

The key board is made by Kluge in Germany. We shipped the whole keyframe with end keys at each section. They shipped the new keyboard back with original keyframe, newly installed balance pins, front pins, and new paper and cloth punching. It is heart warming to look at the keys in the ol' Steinway style, take your mind back to 100 years ago in New York City.