Hi All.  Here is a potential caution about installing a QRS Pianomation
in upright pianos.  As you know, the Pianomation system plays the piano
under the backs of the keys.  Even though this is a great system, here
is a caution that I would add.

Make sure that the center key-bushings (key buttons) are in perfect
shape.  This is often ignored on old uprights as long as they operate
without rattling.  This will help prevent the solenoids from pushing
the key up the center rail when playing loudly.

This system relies on the front rail punching to prevent the hammers
from blocking.  This works very well in grand pianos, but old uprights
with long keys (old players, in particular) can develop key problems in
a short time.

Play the Pianomation on the loudest setting.  If any key rides up the
center pin, rest assured that the key will soon wear out very quickly.
It will wear out the hole in the key.  Pretty soon you will have a
piano full of 'pulley keys'.

There are several ways to prevent this from happening.  First, replace
the key buttons; that will help.  If the problem persists, you can
either install a felted rail across the centers or, better yet, install
an adjustable 'stop rail' on the action.

You can usually adjust the throw of the plunger, but that rarely works.
When the piano is playing normally, all is well, but on very loud
passages, it will occur anyway.

Time to fix those keys -- Yikes!

Andy Taylor

 [ It really would be best if the travel of the solenoid shafts could
 [ by adjusted by a stop rail securely attached to the solenoid frame.
 [ Lacking that, a felt-covered stop rail can be installed across the
 [ top of the back end of the keys.  I've seen this also in grand
 [ pianos with added player actions.  -- Robbie