File under dumb questions

[mikehaugen]

the "mechanics" wire is many times just piano wire, we buy ours from mcmaster carr, it is widely used for aviation and is still sold by some companies as mechanics wire.

[jomar215]

There is also the so called "mechanic's wire" that is soft and easily bendable. Much easier to work than other wires and has fixed many an exhaust system.
Not even sure where to buy it any more but this thread has rekindled my interest.

Mechanics wire is a regular item in my mechanics tool box. I buy it right at the automotive supply store (Napa), here in town.

[mjncad]

the "mechanics" wire is many times just piano wire, we buy ours from mcmaster carr, it is widely used for aviation and is still sold by some companies as mechanics wire.

The piano wire I bought at the hobby shop many years ago when I was building model trucks was hardened steel, very stiff, and quite brittle. As I buy a fair amount of stuff from McMaster-Carr, I'll have to see what kind of piano wire they offer.