Hi Randolph, For someone who does not tune often, I think it makes
sense to use a good electronic device.  I would also check by ear to
verify the machine is doing the "right thing." Simple tests, such as
octaves, double octaves and arpeggios should be fine for most
situations.

I often use my fingernail in the high treble to pluck notes (might not
work for everyone) and listen to confirm I have a solid unison.  The
fingernail is good because the job goes faster, don't have to put down
the plucking tool before using the tuning hammer and then pick it up
again afterwards.

I'm going to try and see if I can pluck with a toothpick and keep it in
my hand and "at the ready" while I adjust the tuning pin.  I have also
used a feeler gauge, a guitar pick.

For the dampers, you can try a wooden wedge to push down the pedal or
push up the pedal rod.  Dampen the bass where the biggest interference
would come from "sympathetic partials." You have been a great help to
me over the years on Duo Arts (cross valves, bleed bars etc.  Working
on "non players" is so much easier.  Some make tuning a lot more
complicated than it has to be.

Many students drop out of these "tuning schools" which keep the 10
grand they laid out for tuition.  I am too busy learning and doing so
much else, I just don't have time to fool around with metal forks and
aural temperaments which I will never use in the "real world."

Bill Maguire