Today’s focus is a repair every technician should know how to do: fixing a buzzing or dead bass string. It’s a common problem, and while there’s no single “easy” fix, there is a reliable method that can breathe new life into the bass section of a piano.

 

Identifying the Problem

The issue usually begins with a customer complaining of a rattling or buzzing sound coming from a single bass note—often something like C1. This type of buzz is typically caused by a loose winding separating from the core of the string. When that happens, it vibrates unnaturally and creates a noise that stands out from the rest of the piano’s warm, full tone.

 

The Core Fix: Twisting the Bass String

The main repair involves removing the string from the hitch pin, twisting it in the direction of its winding, and reseating it—this tightens the winding back onto the core.

Just loose enough to unhook it from the hitch pin—no more. Over-loosening can cause unnecessary risk, including the dreaded broken becket. I typically go about ¾ of a turn at a time, watching the coils carefully.

Once loose, inspect the winding direction. Most strings wind counterclockwise, but always double-check. If you get it wrong (guilty here!), you may need to redo it.

 

How Much Should You Twist?

• Start with a half turn. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, go for a full turn or turn and a half.
  

• Be cautious—too much pressure can break the string.
  

• Tools like vise grips or string twisting tools help immensely here, especially when doing a full turn and a half.
  

*If the buzz is still present after the twist, the string likely needs to be replaced.

 

Pro Tips to Keep in Mind

• Always inform the customer before attempting this. There’s a chance the string could break.

• Wear gloves to avoid getting skin oils on the copper winding (and protect your hands from cuts).

• Clamp the string before releasing it to avoid unexpected snapping.

• Tune the string slightly sharp after repair to allow it to settle.
  
  

Bonus Fix: Using Glue for Loose Windings

Sometimes, particularly on thinner wound bass strings, the winding starts to come loose at the top near the tuning pin or bottom near the hitch pin. In these cases, a small dab of thick CA glue (like Zap) and a kicker spray can hold the winding in place. This is a surprisingly long-lasting fix for those annoying high bass string vibrations.

 

Customer Communication

Be clear with your customer:

• Explain the process and potential risks.

• Offer the twist as an alternative to full replacement.

• If the string breaks, be prepared to order a custom replacement.

When to Do This During a Service Call

Do this at the beginning of your tuning, not the end. That way, you can touch up the pitch later in the appointment after the string settles.

 

Wrapping Up

Buzzing or dead bass strings are one of the most frustrating issues for piano owners—but also one of the most rewarding for technicians to fix. Whether you’re tightening the winding, applying glue, or twisting an entire bass section, you’re offering real value by restoring tone and life to the instrument.