My Ampico and Duo-Art reproducing pianos both have remote pumps, the
Ampico since 1977 in three different installations.  In regard to
the length of tubing you can have, I once installed the Ampico pump
in a ceiling above the Ampico, and a long way forward in the ceiling.
This meant the tube (one inch diameter) was over 40 feet long.

It worked very well and there was no discernible loss of suction at
the piano.  To achieve a remote pump in an Ampico requires fitting
into the piano the amplifier, reservoir and other components normally
on the pump.  This lets you access these parts for adjustment and
maintenance.

Apart from removing a potential source of noise (all pumps make some
noise), in the case of a pump fitted to a grand, it also allows the
pump to be orientated the correct way, in which the shafts (motor
and pump) are horizontal, not vertical.  Far better on the bearings.
As well, the heat generated by the motor is no longer affecting the
sound board.

While originality is lost, which might upset some people, the end
result is a safer and quieter installation.  Also, if you mount the
pump somewhere accessible, maintenance on it is far easier.  As many
restorers know, removing a box pump from a grand piano requires the
correct technique to avoid the thing falling on you.

In the case of a Duo-Art, mine has a spill valve in the piano (an
upright).  The pump is mounted about 30 feet away, under the house.
In my case, the pump is a so-called tugboat pump, which requires
regular greasing of the crank shaft bearings.  Having it under the
house and quite accessible makes this very easy to do.

The pump is not particularly noisy, but it groans and makes spring
noises that, if in the piano, would be clearly heard.  When collectors
listen to my pianos, they comment on how quiet they are.  I therefore
thoroughly recommend remote pumps for reproducing pianos.

While in the UK recently, I observed many instruments there with
remote pumps.  In one case, the pump was simply a vacuum cleaner,
which was inaudible at the piano.  It means drilling a hole in the
floor, wall or whatever for the tubing, probably best done when the
wife is out.  Making the hole a tight fit ensures bugs and the like
cannot crawl through.

Some people run the power lead inside the tubing, but this means the
lead has to exit the tubing at either end through perfectly sealed
holes.  I attach the power lead to the outside of the tubing with
straps.

Best wishes from Sydney,
Peter Phillips
http://www.petersmidi.com/