Just one note about testing -- you want to test the pneumatics very
well before installing anything. I once used a cloth that didn't
adhere well to the pneumatics. I forget which type, but it was
recommended as it's extra light. They said to glue the cloth backward.
Anyway, the cloth failed me after a short while though I tested the
pneumatics very well. I took it apart and tried a few pneumatics and
found the bond to the cloth very weak. I then tried a new test:
instead of testing them by suction on the pieces, I tried by blowing
them. Several failed, several passed. Those that failed I cleaned the
cloth with rubbing alcohol and glued the cloth back in place -- then
they all passed both suction and pressure.
That piano is still functioning and even survived the Haifa fire (in
the NISCO museum). From this point on, I always test with both suction
and pressure all pneumatics. I also never tried to see if they would
close on their own weight, but no binding and easy movement is crucial.
Eli Shahar
Sonora, Calif.
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