from the workbench

- The early lachenal instruments do not have serrations on the pivot pressings. Alex is right, the problem you have experienced is due to shrinkage of the action board. The solution is to do what Alex advises ----but do not ever use epoxy or super glue for simple tasks like this. It is only neccessary to press the pivots into their original holes with the assistance of a little serration of the tongue of the pivot pressing.Do this gently with some side cutting pliers (If you use too much enthusiasm you will overharden the brass and finish up with two small pieces of scrap) A toothpick point of hide glue (you can use Franklins liquid hide glue for this job)will be sufficient to hold the pivot in place. to avoid damaging the pivots use a pair of jewelers flat nosed pliers to hold the pivot (one jaw in the slot and the other on the side of the pivot)and then press it in carefully. No hammer should be required. If you have less than 55% humidity where you are storing this instrument,expect more trouble.