I think that if a Cremona pinblock has pulled loose then it should
be replaced.  The last three Cremona's I have had all needed new
pinblocks.

These are commonly referred to as open faced pinblocks.  The plate has
a large area left open for the pinblock compared to later style pianos
that had tuning pin holes in the plate for each tuning pin.  These open
faced blocks are now close to 90 years young having been exposed to
humidity.

They are pain to replace but in these pianos that is the best solution.
I have seen very few of these open faced pinblocks that were repaired
with bolts and glue that held tune.

These best part about having a piano with a pinblock loose it that it
is easier to remove.  I usually make jigs for a router to ride upon for
removing pinblocks.  I also use West System epoxy to glue in the new
pinblock.  West System also sells a filler for the epoxy so small gaps
can be filled and still have a strong glue joint.  Normal yellow glues
will let a pinblock move over time.

Don Teach - Shreveport Music Co.
Shreveport, LA  71105