After addressing Key Roller Noise last week, we wanted to address other types of roller noise which come from side-to-side play. Vintage rollers can make a racket when they slide back and forth against the sides of the key. Fortunately, teflon tips are easy to install on the ends of rollers to reduce the gap and add a lower friction surface.
First, remove the roller and clean the roller and key. See #WednesdayWisdom: Reducing Roller Noise Part 1: Lubrication
Now, check how much space is left between the roller and the edges of the key by sliding in a piece of Thin (.003”) or Medium (.005”) sheet teflon. The ideal fit will be very little play back and forth but the roller should also move freely.
If you will be installing just one teflon tip, put it on the side of the roller which your finger naturally pushes to the side of the key to get the most benefit from the teflon.
To install, apply a very small amount of super glue on the end of the roller and stick it onto the brown side of the teflon. Once cured, use a razor blade to carefully cut the excess teflon around the outside of the roller, being careful to not cut the roller.
Use either the corner of the razor blade or a drill bit to take the inside of the teflon out where the screw passes through.
Once you have finished applying and trimming the teflon, lubricate the roller and reinstall.
Happy repairing!
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