Expert: William J Perkins - 10/18/2008

Question
What is the best way to extract and replace the dry leather plugs in chime hammers?  Is there a good source for replacement leather stock? Thanks

Answer
Hammer heads are leathered by one of two methods.  (1) Srew-in or (2) pressed in.  To releather, remove the hammers from their handles and simply force the old leather out.  You can cut repalcement inserts from leather shoe laces, old shoes, purses, or if you wish go to a shoe repair shop an buy a piece of scrap cowhide.  You can buy new hammer heads from any clock materials house.  I prefer the scrap leather bit.  Regards WJP