In Digest 980331 Joel Cluskey wrote:

> In restoring my Kelsworth Simplex upright, I tried using the
> replacement pneumatic valves supplied by the Player Piano Company.
> I found that they were of varying tolerances, and the clearances
> they created between the bottom and top seat were inconsistent,
> thereby providing a sloppy response.  In addition, the wood stem
> was not well fastened to the button.

Joel, to be honest, those valves are nothing but junk.  I tried some
myself and the units would not pass the test.  Those valves never made
it into the piano, and I got my money back (after a unpleasant
argument on the phone).  I have followed the water soaking method that
Durrell suggested when I first started rebuilding players.

I also had to find replacement units as a result!  Before I touched
the replacements, I read the Reblitz book and followed his directions.
I had no trouble with those units after that.  Thanks, Art!

I redid the original valves.  It took a while longer but the results
were great.  Did you reseal the pouch wells and valve area?  Simplex
units will leak like a sieve if you don't.  In addition, the pouch well
is very close to the pneumatic.  If the pouch well isn't sealed,
suction will leak through the wood under the pouch, killing the
repetition.

I acknowledge the fact that Durrell Armstrong has done much to keep
these players alive, but the fact is that much of the materials that
are presented in the catalogue are simply the incorrect material for
the job.  I learned this the hard way.

I also have been noticing that the goods from Player Piano Co. appear
'old' lately.  Has anyone else noticed this?

I will say, in all fairness to Player Piano Co., that the replacement
Standard Action valve stems and force-fit collars are great.

Durrell and I have an understanding: I don't like him and he doesn't
like me.  I am just too critical of my work to install something
blindly.  All those players with PPCo sponge-neoprene valves either
leak, or once the facings take a 'set' the valve travel is increased.

Do yourself a favor, Joel, re-leather the original valves.  You will be
glad you did!

Best Regards
Andy Taylor
Tempola Music Rolls
http://www.bootheel.net/~tempola/