Thanks to Paddy Handscombe for the specs on a UK piano.  I am wondering
whether there might be something slightly different in the U.S., or is
there an acceptable range for its operation?  Or has someone found out
through trial and error what works best?

The reason I'm asking is that Paddy's input is a little different from
what I measured on this unrestored system and what someone else told
me.  From Paddy's data, the closed gap is .187" on #1, #2, #4, and
.125" on #8 dynamic. The closed gaps in my measurement were .150" on
all.  This places my fully open measurement to 3 7/16", not the 3.5"
Paddy suggests and certainly not the 3.25" someone else suggested
privately.

My procedure for measuring the closed gap is to use a caliper to
measure the OD of two panels held together: i.e. .775"-.250"-.375"=
.150" for #1 dynamic.  Measuring each series yielded the same gap.
I can set the gap evenly at each screw, once I determine an appropriate
measurement.

Could I make each gap equal at .172" and end up with the 3.5" if it
really matters, or is having the #8 dynamic closed gap of .125" better
for that volume?  Is each gap at .150" with 3 7/16" sufficient?

It sounds like splitting hairs, but I like to pay attention to detail.
I plan on making spacers since I have two more sets pending.  If I
preset the closed gap and use spacers to insure appropriately spaced,
parallel panels, then each dynamic's respective travel should be a no-
brainer and not require micro-management.  That is, if removing the
stop screws to install the cloth and replacing them does not
drastically alter measurements.  I can't see that happening though.
Perhaps a naive assumption.

Jon Page