replacing skirted key caps

[GetWithTheTines]

Is it possible to move skirted key caps from one key to another, or would removing it damage the key in a way that it cannot be re-used?

Also, since the early models had skirted key caps, does that mean that the keys are narrower than the later models? I guess they would have to be to accommodate the extra space that would be required to fit them over the key, right? If that's the case, would using the key cap replacements that are available cause a large gap between the keys?

[sean]

I would be very impressed if you managed to remove a skirted keycap from one key without damaging it.  You might be able to steam it off, but I bet you will do some damage to the wooden key.  It doesn't look like a fun task.  I wouldn't try.

The wooden keys themselves are very different from later Rhodes keys, but this difference is mostly only the portion of the key that is under the keycaps. 

The pedestals and shank are the same as later keys all the way past the button, but when the key approaches the plastic keycap, the wood is carved away on both sides so that the wooden piece that fits under the keycap is narrower than the rest of the key.  The widest part of the wooden key is at the button (the piece glued on top where the key pivots over the balance rail).

You certainly can not repair one of these keys with a new flat keytop, because there isn't a flat bed of wood to support the keytop, and the front of the wooden key isn't wide enough.

The black keys are constructed in a similar way:  the wooden key is routed to accommodate the plastic keytop.

Sean

[Chris Carroll]

Replacing the Pratt and reed key caps is possible, we do it all the time here, we also break a certain amount. The way we do it is with a utility knife and score all aound the edges and then cut under the cap into the soft wood, Slowly start to wiggle the cap off. Like I said we do it all the time, but there is the occasional casualty. We have a lot of these keys if anyone needs one.

[GetWithTheTines]

Thanks, Chris. Do you mean that you have keys with or without the skirted key cap (or both)? I thought that you guys didn't sell the skirted key tops.

[pianotuner steveo]

If i remember correctly, the skirted keys are just key sticks, not actually shaped like C, D, E, F, etc underneath the plastic.

Dont use steam on plastic, a gentle heat like a hair dryer usually softens the glue.

Steam is used to remove real ivory on old acoustic pianos.

[Chris Carroll]

we do not sell them publically, but if you contact us, we can sell you what you need. We also have manufactured 2 of the end key caps for our conversions.  Again, use a utility knife and score around the edges until it becomes loose.

[Foots]

I'm gonna refresh this thread. I am trying to replace a B skirted key cap and not having much luck. Erick at VV was kind enough to look for one, but was unable to find one. I did get a full key that won't quite fit. I've removed the burned key cap off of the original key, but the replacement key has a slight crack in the cap. Trying to remove it from the key without destroying it is proving quite difficult.

Does anybody have a source for skirted key caps, or tips for removing a skirted key cap?

[Max Brink]

I can probably send you one but it might not match the fading of the white key perfectly. When I pull them from my two or three "organ donor" key beds from that era I usually match the fading with one of the three... Would you say it's brilliant white, slight fade, or very faded?

Just shoot me an email or give me a call.

MB

[Foots]

Thanks Max,

With a lot of patience and a sharp blade, I was able to carve all of the wood out of the key cap. I going to try to glue it in and fix the crack. If that doesn't work, I'll call you.