Organ Update - April 2023

Since getting the six bourdon pipes back from Nolte’s, it was decided that installing them in the chamber was the best move given the large amount of space they consume in the basement when not installed. They fit perfectly and it feels quite good to finally get the first six pipes installed!! Only 882 to go.

The organ has two pianos - the baby grand in the music room and an upright in the tone chute. Both produce dramatically different sounds, especially with the mandolin attachment on the upright. This piano operates on vacuum with an action that came with it and a rail of direct-electric magnets that can be connected to Uniflex. That rail was completely rewired and several bad magnets replaced.

The next large project is to construct the platform that will cover and enclose the reservoirs. For this, a trip to Badger Hardwoods of Wisconsin was in order. The owner, Bob, was able to get me the two 16’ boards needed, along with a dozen or so more to complete the task. Along with getting nice lumber, Bob will also mill things down to spec, which he did for me, to match Wurlitzer’s specifications (can’t buy that at Home Depot!).

With the lumber procured, the toy counter has been dismantled to be lightly rebuilt. Although the primaries and many gaskets were done prior to me getting the instrument, many contacts and gaskets weren’t gone through. In addition to cleaning those things up, everything is getting a coat of shellac to bring the finish back to life.