Stop Action
MECHANICAL stop actions use stop knobs (draw knobs) or levers only (not stop tabs). When a stop knob is pulled, a mechanical linkage operates between the console and the wind chest. This linkage brings a rank of pipes into potential action by pulling a “SLIDER” within the chest. A slider has holes that can either line up with the pipe holes (when the stop knob is engaged or “pulled”), or not line up (when the stop is disengaged or retired).
Like mechanical key action, this is the oldest type of stop action. It is preferred by some organists who desire a more direct form of contact between the organist and the music. However, mechanical stop actions are difficult to control by most types of combination action. They also require that the console be mounted reasonably close to the pipework.
