Glued on CBA buttons

[jollyrogeraccordions]

Hello
Is there a reasonable approach to refixing the buttons on this CBA (see picture)?
https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZN09C4pioO9hwIC63
The buttons appear to be fixed to a dowel which is then glued (??) on to the lever below. But you cant get the fingerboard off without removing all the buttons. So is there a preferred method to fix this?

 

[maugein96]

Hi,

Don't know how to link posts, but if you see the post I put on about CBA buttons, member WaldoW has recently put a fairly detailed description on how to replace various button types.

I've never seen anything like the buttons on that Hohner at all, I'm afraid.

 

[debra]

This configuration is every repairer biggest nightmare. Buttons that are glued in such a way that the only way to remove the keyboard is "all at once" to be able to work on it really are a nightmare.
There is a nice system of screw-in buttons. Why some manufacturers decide to create problems by glueing the buttons instead I don't understand. The difference in total weight (of not having the screws) is negligible.

 

[jollyrogeraccordions]

Thanks Paul, I think I agree with you. I can foresee a lot of problems ... getting the keys level and centred in the fingerboard holes, and if the levers need adjusting also having to reset the pallets. And getting the little split dowels to stay put while the glue dries. Not a nice job at all. And...well you can’t even take off the fingerboard because of the keys still glued on. Unless of course the back of the keyboard housing comes off. What fun!!

 

[maugein96]

On that box if the back of the treble side does come off, you'll have the treble coupler mechanisms to cope with as well, as they'll be in front of the control levers serving the buttons.

Looking at the photo, the buttons still on the treble keyboard are lying all over the place, so it might be as well pulling the lot off, removing the keyboard plate, and you'll then be able to access all the levers to get them at a uniform height, before gluing all the buttons back in (obviously after replacing the treble keyboard plate.)

I wouldn't have the first idea how to try and level the whole keyboard up if you just stuck the buttons back on the way it is at the moment, unless you have access to special tools. I'm obviously not an experienced repairer or I'd be able to offer the real solution, but I know what it's like trying to play a box with wonky treble buttons. You'd be better hitting the keys with spoons!