This is my two cents: The tracking system is an important feature,
however, I have seen quite a few pianos where the tracker is useless
on rewind as the trackers source of suction is shut off when the piano
is put into reroll. Standard Autopneumatic comes to mind, where the
source of suction comes off the stack, but I think Aeolian tracking
systems (Pianola, Duo-Art, Themodist) receive the suction from the
wind motor governor, so this needs to be considered.
Adjusting the take-up spool brake: In the shop where I work, we
generally set the brake so that it will be on, but only lightly,
enough to stop the spindle from making more than one rotation after
the tab leaves the hook (on reroll).
We have not had complaints about rolls tearing from our customers.
I have seen it happen on my Franklin Ampico, but usually the roll
is in very bad shape to begin with.
So, check your trackers suction source (is it 'on' in reroll mode?).
If it has suction, then make sure that it is working and aligned
correctly, but I would also check the tension on the brake and reduce
it, if it is "stiff". I realize that "stiff" is a subjective
judgement, but see above for my guidelines.
Ed Copeland, player system specialist,
Barton Player Pianos, Minneapolis, MN
http://www.ourmusicalhouse.com/
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