Reblitz wrote that "Hammer stroke should be 1 3/4" in most old uprights, and it varies from 1 1/2" to 1 3/4" in spinets and consoles." When he said it varies in consoles, did he mean that it differs from console to console or did he mean that it actually varies from end to end of the action in a single console piano? I'm working on a 1941 Chickering console. The hammer stroke is the "correct" 1 3/4" at the low bass notes, but the high treble notes are perhaps 1/4" to 3/8" closer to the strings. There are four action mounting studs and nuts. The hammer stroke is nearly all the same for the three left sections of the action as defined by the action mounting brackets, but right-most treble section curves in toward the right-end mounting bracket. My first thought was that the action is warped or the right-most action mounting stud had been screwed in closer at the treble end. Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated on whether this action is correct as is with it's varying hammer stroke along the line, or if I should proceed under the assumption that the hammer stroke distance has been monkeyed with in the past, and now needs to be un-monkeyed in that right-most section. The hammer rail felt is new and the wooden hammer rail is straight and true and seems to be in proper condition. Thanks in advance... -- JDP

Usually a layperson does not have the knowledge and expertise to make assumptions about the technical state of a piano. Personally without seeing the piano in question I would not make any assumption based on your description. There could be a number of things going on.

Does it work???... place your attention on the mechanical feel and play. Put the ruler away.