Minimoog Model D Complete Keybed Restoration of Vintage Moog Synthesizer

This 1974 Minimoog Model D had a broken key along with a completely unusable keybed when it came by the shop. I filmed the entirety of this tedious process for the benefit of anyone looking to rebuild a keybed on a vintage synth. Hopefully it will give you an idea of an organized workflow that will help you get the project done so you can get back to playing!

There are a number of sites still providing parts to service your keybed. I used Syntar and Rosin Sound for the various supplies needed.

At a minimum you'll need bushings and lubricant. I also had a broken key to replace.

Be aware that there are different keysprings for black and white keys. I had a box for each so they didn't get mixed up. Also, you'll need to reinstall the black keys before you install the white ones.

I didn't use a special tool to adjust the key height. Just a pair of needle nose pliers. Do this carefully and you'll be fine. You'll see I did use a straight edge ruler to level the keybed. I set the outside key heights and worked everything in between with the straight edge and pliers.

If a key is sticking due to the old lubricant that's gotten crusty, you can clean the metal key way with WD40 and also insert a flat-head screwdriver in the underside of the key to widen the gap.

This whole job takes a big work surface and patience but it is doable.

I used hand sanitizer to clean the dirty keybed (with a toothbrush), Simple Green to clean the keys, and followed the whole thing up with The Natchez Solution which is a conditioner/polish that really brings back surfaces that have been neglected. Love that stuff!!

#moog #restoration #vintage