Since it was my posting which inspired the current discussion
thread on silicone rubber tubing, I feel I should add some background
information which might be useful.

The business I now run, which supplies the UK player piano market,
was originally started by Steve Cox (also producer of Laguna Pianos
Rolls), who is now deceased.  The materials I supply are as originally
specified by Steve to match, as near as possible, the originals.

The tubing is produced by a UK company which specialises in silicone
extrusion, and they worked with Steve originally to determine the
specification of each tube size.  The "hardness" of the tube varies
across the size range to ensure its resistance to collapse whilst
retaining the original dimensions.  This ensures that the tube, whilst
fitting the appropriate nipples, will also pass through existing holes
and gaps in the instruments.  I have not yet had a situation where this
is not the case.  In use the tube has about the same flexibility as
rubber in the small sizes, whilst being a little easier to handle in
the larger sizes.  Its elasticity makes it easy to push on to nipples
and ensures good grip.

Regarding price, my price for tracker tube is actually less than
the rubber tube supplied by a major UK piano parts supplier, but they
don't supply the large sizes, so I don't have a comparison.  PPCo are
certainly substantially cheaper excluding carriage costs.  This would
make my tube much more expensive for US customers, particularly with
the current exchange rate.  However, as other postings have shown, it
will last much longer!

My prices are limited by the quantities I can purchase, which are
related to the demand from the UK/European market and my space and
capital availability.  Because the tube is specially made, each order
incurs a set-up cost which is the same whatever the order volume.
The size of the US market ought to generate lower prices.  Even so,
is the cost of tube really a problem in relation to the labour cost
in fitting it and doing all the other work of restoration?

I will, of course, be happy to supply any US customer who feels their
instruments are worth the extra investment.

John Farmer
UK
www.musicanic.com