Chloe Zhang
Accordion key tops are usually made of plastic or a similar material and are designed to protect the keys and make them more comfortable to play. They can become worn or damaged over time, which may cause them to produce an uneven sound or become difficult to press. Replacing the key tops can help restore the instrument to its full functionality and enhance the musician's experience. While it is possible to replace them yourself, it is recommended to bring the accordion to a professional repair shop if you are uncomfortable doing so. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace plastic accordion key tops, including tips on how to remove the old key tops, choose the right replacement parts, and attach the new key tops securely.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to replace | Accordion key tops should be replaced when they are worn, damaged, or cracked. |
| Materials | Accordion key tops are usually made of plastic or similar materials, such as celluloid. |
| Durability | The durability of key tops depends on the material and quality of construction. High-quality plastic or composite materials tend to be more durable. |
| Functionality | Key tops protect the keys, make the accordion more comfortable to play, and help players navigate notes and chords. |
| Types | Various types of key tops are available, including flat and smooth, textured, or ribbed surfaces. |
| Maintenance | To maintain key tops, handle the accordion with care, avoid dropping or slamming it, and keep it clean to prevent dirt and grime buildup. |
| Repair | Key tops can be repaired by gluing broken pieces or replacing them entirely. Celluloid glue is recommended for gluing plastic key tops to the wooden keys. |
| Replacement | Replacement key tops may be challenging to find, especially for older accordion models with "waterfall" style keys. |
| Cost | Replacing all key tops can cost at least $100 USD. |
| Difficulty | Replacing key tops can be challenging, and it is recommended to seek professional repair services if uncomfortable with the process. |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the accordion's shoulder straps and back pad
When repairing an accordion, it is best to remove the shoulder straps and the back pad before opening the instrument. To do this, first locate and count the bellows pins on the treble side of the bellows. Typically, there will be three or four pins on the back and three or four on the front, but there may also be one on the top and one on the bottom. Avoid damaging the pins or the plastic finish on the accordion when removing them. If you don't have the special pliers designed for this purpose, you can wrap the jaws of any pliers with tape to pad them.
Stand the accordion on its feet, with the bass plate and bass strap facing downwards. Grip each treble side bellows pin with the pliers and pull it straight out, using your other hand to steady the accordion. If your accordion has screws instead of pins, use a screwdriver to unscrew them. It is important to keep the screws and/or pins in order, as they may not all be the same length or diameter, and they should be replaced in their original positions.
Once the pins or screws have been removed, carefully lift the shoulder straps and back pad away from the accordion. Set them aside in a safe place to avoid misplacing any parts. With the shoulder straps and back pad removed, you can now proceed with opening the accordion and performing the necessary repairs or maintenance.
When reinstalling the shoulder straps and back pad, ensure that you follow the correct procedure. Reinstall any bellows strap screws that were removed, and carefully attach the shoulder straps and back pad to their respective positions. It is important to adjust the shoulder straps to a comfortable position, ensuring that the accordion does not flap around during play. Additionally, consider using a back strap for added support, especially if your accordion is on the heavier side.
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Locating and removing bellows pins
To locate and remove bellows pins, first remove the shoulder straps and the back pad. Then, locate and count the bellows pins on the treble side of the bellows. Typically, there will be three or four on the back and three or four on the front, but there may also be one on the top and one on the bottom.
Some accordions have screws instead of pins, in which case you will need a screwdriver. If you are using pliers, you can wrap the jaws with tape to pad them and avoid marking the pins or finish. Stand the accordion on its feet, with the bass plate and bass strap down, and grip each pin with the pliers, pulling it straight out while steadying the accordion with your other hand.
Keep the pins and screws in order, as they may not all be the same length or diameter, and they should be put back into the same holes. If there are any strap holder screws that go into the frame, remove them and put them in a wide-bottomed cup so they are not lost.
If you meet resistance, check for any bellows strap or snap mounting screws near the bellows that might be penetrating the bellows frame and remove them. Forcing the accordion apart while any screw or pin is still penetrating the frame can damage it, necessitating a costly repair.
Some Hohner accordions have two lever latches under the treble grille that can be released to lift the front of the treble cabinet off the bellows. Do not remove the screws along the back. To separate the bellows from the bass side of these accordions, first remove the bass cover, then release the two thumb clips and remove the bass machine and bass button board. Finally, remove the screws that fasten the bass cabinet to the bellows.
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$6.99
Removing the spindle holding the white keys
First, carefully unscrew and remove the grill and the plate covering the keyboard. Pay close attention to the register switches and how they relate to the grill. On the bottom edge of the keyboard, you will find a small metal thing with a screw. Unscrew this to access the metal nubs that are the beginnings of the spindles. If your accordion is old or not in good condition, the spindles may be difficult to remove.
If the spindles are stuck, you can try injecting WD-40 or powdered graphite between the keys in line with the rod and let it sit overnight. This may help to free up the spindle without having to pull it out. Always take the least invasive approach first and avoid forcing the keys, as this could make the situation worse.
If the spindle still does not come out, try twisting it while gently pulling. Be careful not to bend the spindle as you do this. You can use small vice-grip pliers to get a better grip on the end of the spindle. Pull the spindle out just far enough to release the key you need to remove. If there is only one spindle for all the keys, you may need to tape or clamp the other keys in place to prevent them from flying off as you remove the spindle.
Once the spindle is out, carefully lift the key you need to remove, noting the placement of the key spring. The free end of the spring should point toward the outer end of the key, not toward the valve, and it usually rides in a tiny groove in the wood. Number each key as it comes off to facilitate getting them back in the proper places later.
After removing the key, you can proceed with your repairs or replacements. When you are finished, reinstall the key, its spring, and the spindle, taking care not to bend the spindle. You may need to press the keys slightly down into proper alignment to allow the spindle to pass through.
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Using the right glue between plastic and wood
While repairing an accordion, it is best to remove the shoulder straps and the back pad before opening the accordion. This is done to avoid damaging the pins or the plastic finish on the accordion.
When it comes to gluing plastic and wood together, it is important to choose the right glue to ensure a strong and durable bond. Here are some tips for using the right glue between plastic and wood:
- Choose a strong adhesive: Since plastics don't stick easily to other substances, opt for a heavy-duty adhesive like Loctite or Gorilla Glue. These glues are designed to create a sturdy bond between different materials.
- Prepare the surfaces: Before gluing, clean both the plastic and wood surfaces to remove any dust, oil, or residue. Lightly sand the plastic surface with high-grit sandpaper to create a rough texture that the glue can adhere to.
- Use the right amount: Super glues typically come in small tubes, making them ideal for small repairs. Apply a sufficient amount of glue to both surfaces, ensuring complete coverage.
- Apply constant pressure: After applying the glue, bring the two surfaces together and apply constant pressure until the glue has dried enough to hold securely. Place the glued pieces on a flat, stable surface to ensure proper adhesion.
- Allow drying time: Most super glues will start drying within seconds, but it may take up to two hours for them to harden completely. Avoid handling the glued pieces during this time to ensure the bond is strong and secure.
By following these steps and using the appropriate glue, you can effectively replace plastic accordion key tops and create a durable bond between the plastic and wood components.
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Clamping the key without removing it
Clamping the accordion key without removing it is possible, but it is challenging. One option is to lay the accordion down and weigh down the affected key with a suitable weight and a pad or spacer between the key and the weight. This method has been demonstrated by Valdet Jakubovic, who used "DAP Weldwood Contact Cement" glue and plastic cable ties for clamps.
If you wish to attempt clamping without removing the key, it is recommended to use "celluloid glue". To make this glue, dissolve celluloid in acetone until it becomes a paste. For gluing, the paste should be more liquid. Smear a thin layer of glue between the wood and the key top. Note that for a good result, the used celluloid should be of approximately the same colour as the key top. For example, do not use black celluloid to fix a white key.
If the keys have separate spindles, you can avoid removing all the keys by taping all the keys except the ones to be removed. Use 3M Scotch Brand #218 plastic masking tape, as other tapes leave a sticky residue. Place one row of tape near the ends of the white keys and two rows over the black keys, taping to the tops of the white keys and to the sides and tops of the black keys. If you pull out just one spindle, the other spindle and the tape will hold all the taped keys in place.
If there is only one spindle for all the keys, you can clamp in place the keys you do not wish to remove, using large spring clamps with extended jaws to hold rods and shims against the keys. A single clamp can hold a wooden ruler or a similarly shaped plastic or aluminium rod across the ends of the white keys, pressing them all down under the clamp's spring pressure.
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Frequently asked questions
If the key tops are damaged, worn, or yellowed, they will need to be replaced. Additionally, if the keys are difficult to press or produce an uneven sound, it may be due to worn-out key tops.
First, remove the shoulder straps and back pad. Then, locate and count the bellows pins, and pull them out straight. Next, carefully lift the plate off by unscrewing the grill and removing the screws. Finally, remove the spindles holding the keys and take out the old key tops. It is important to note that removing old key tops can result in them cracking and not coming off in one piece.
The recommended glue for attaching plastic key tops to an accordion is "celluloid glue". This glue is made by dissolving celluloid in acetone until it becomes a paste. It is important to use a thin layer of glue between the wood and the key top and to clamp the pieces together. Additionally, ensure that the colour of the celluloid used matches the colour of the key top.
