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How to Remove a Piano Plate Split Bolt

The plate of a piano is a structural component that contains the harp with the strings used to produce sound. These strings are under tension of between 150 to 200 pounds. This means that the plate needs to be securely attached to the wood frame of the piano. If you plan to disassemble an old piano or want to install an adjustable plate, the bolts for the existing plate will need to be removed.

Things You'll Need

Power drill
Sockets
Socket wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Open the lid of the piano and prop it up with a piece of wood. You can also remove the screws used to secure the hinges with a power drill. Once the hinges are removed, take the lid off and then set it aside.
- 2
  Locate the bolts around the perimeter of the cast iron plate and the piano's wood frame. Make a note of the number of bolts that need to be removed.
- 3
  Test various sockets to find one that fits the head of the bolts. Insert the correct size socket onto the end of the socket wrench.
- 4
  Place the socket wrench over the first bolt and begin turning it counterclockwise. Continue turning the bolt until it can be removed from the plate.
- 5
  Go to the next bolt on the plate. Loosen and then remove the bolt from the plate. Repeat this step for all of the bolts attaching the plate to the wood frame.

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