Hi All,  Damon Atchison asks about the bolt that connects the foot
pedal to the metal linkage in a Standard type pedal assembly.

The original bolt was knurled on the lower 2/3rd's to give it some bite
when pounded into its mating hole on the foot pedal.  Then, a small
1/2" screw was used to 'lock' the bolt in position.  I've drawn a simple
diagram of the foot pedal, bolt and lock screw.  It's attached to this
letter and has also been placed at my web site (../gifs/footped.gif)

Having had to replace this piece with modern parts, I use a 3-1/2"
lag-type bolt of the correct diameter as a replacement.  The only
modification that needs to be done is to file down the threads enough
so that the threaded portion fits through the metal linkage.  I also
pre-drill the foot pedal and test the fit of the bolt before final
assembly.

The real key to the success of this modification is the correct
placement of the 'lock' screw.  A new hole for the 1/2" screw must be
placed about one inch in from the edge of the pedal and within a few
millimeters of the shank of the bolt.  The lock screws functions by
expanding the wood near the edge of the bolt, 'pinching' it in place.
Also, the metal link connected to the bolt might need a new brass
bushing if the hole has been contorted or enlarged in the past.

And although originally brass coated, the bolt was made of steel.

Musically,

John A. Tuttle

 [ Thanks for the image, John.  I'll place it at
 [ http://mmd.foxtail.com/Pictures/footped.gif    -- Robbie