Solutions for a squeaky pedal?

[JanustheManus]

Happy New Year all on the forum!

My friend has owned a 1975 73 suitcase for about 9 months now. It's been basically untouched since 1975 with the lack of a bump mod, all original workings, et cetera. Ever since he has owned it (and who knows for how long) there's been a squeak emanating from the player's side of the sustain pedal. My question to you all is: is this a simple fix with some lubricant, or would this require a professional's attention? The problem isn't dire, just really obnoxious to the both of us.

Thanks!

Patrick

[pianotuner steveo]

You have to really search to find the exact point where it is squeaking. Lube like WD-40 will only be a temporary fix.  It's usually at a pivot point, which would require a grease more than an oil. Check where the pedal attaches inside its housing, or it could be the long aluminum bar inside the piano (at the ends) that the pedal rod pushes. Sometimes it's where the rod touches the aluminum rail, which would call for a thick piece of felt, but that will eventually wear away. Acoustic pianos use a thick piece of leather in similar spots, but leather too wears eventually.

[JanustheManus]

Thank you for your reply pianotuner steveo! Yes we will locate the source of the squeak and the rest. The sound seems to originate from the lower end of the pedal mechanism, so that would rule out the aluminum damper bar inside of the piano. When I'm next over there, we'll take a look. I'll look into greases if we can't fix the problem there.

Thanks!

Patrick

[pianotuner steveo]

It could be where the rod touches the pedal too....

[JanustheManus]

Also a possibility too.

Cheers!