Cracks in the cast frame?

Cracks in the cast frame are rare, and are usually due to a. material defects, b. transport damage or c. tuning errors. Depending on where the crack is located, this can have little or no technical effect. Stress cracks often occurred during or shortly after installation. We have increasingly observed such frame cracks in old Bechstein and Steingräber & Söhne instruments.

These cracks often occur at the weak points of the cast iron frames at transitions or corners. This is not always critical - but should definitely be evaluated by an expert. Repairs to cast iron frames are also possible, but are very cost-intensive. Therefore, the integrity of the cast iron frame must always be critically checked both when buying and selling. 

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