So how do you tell if your pinblock needs to be replaced? It requires a bit of detective work.

However, the bottom is not where most of the problems are – they are hidden from view. If you remove the fallboard and pull the action out of the piano, you will be able to see the bottom of the pinblock and inspect it. Unfortunately, this incredibly important part of the piano can’t be inspected for problems easily. Its job is to keep the pins in place providing the tension necessary to keep the piano in tune. Needless to say, the pinblock is a crucial part of the piano. The rebuilding process is the only time you will be able to access the pinblock and replace it if necessary. This is basically taking out all the strings and removing the plate of the piano – usually using an engine hoist. What’s the Difference between Rebuilding and Reconditioning a Piano? You can learn about the process of rebuilding a piano in my video: The big problem with the pinblock is that if it’s in bad condition and needs to be replaced you have only one option rebuild the piano. In fact, without a solid pinblock, you simply can’t tune your piano! The pinblock is a fundamentally important part of the instrument. You have probably heard about a pinblock and you might have wondered what it is.

Kimball baby grand piano pin block