G'day all.
     Here are some of my observations re the Aeolian 4 bellows
steamboat pump.  This is definitely an early style since my Stroud D-A
is 1914 and still has the original pump.   This pump is still working
well after 80 years and has not been recovered or opened up at all ---
everything is original except the drive belt which is now round cross
section clear synthetic material with a fused joint.  The pump
performance is actually slightly better under full load than the
enclosed pump on my Steck grand.  I still have the original leather
belt which I wish to preserve as long as possible.  I have regreased
the bearings and used a molybdenum grease on the wooden con rods to
stop any squeaks.  The relatively low and fairly constant humidity in
this country (Australia) seems to prolong the life of leather, rubber
and wood and it is not unheard of for unrestored players to be working
still after 70 years or more!

     As for noise, it is only noticeable on quiet passages and can be a
little obtrusive, but the way the pump is mounted with no springs or
packing doesn't help.  I don't have any problem with valve noise, so I
feel that the basic pump is quiet enough if it is working well.
Replacing the leather belt got rid of some of the residual noise caused
by the joint.

     Referring to Pat's dilemma, personally, I would not like to see
the original pump replaced and would suggest checking the valves
again.  I suspect that pumps in uprights might be inherently noisier,
but in my case, this is not so, as the grand box pump needs attention
and has a noticeable nock.

Question: The belly cloth is missing from my Steck grand.  Should I
replace it and hopefully reduce some of the noise, or is it more
trouble than it's worth?  What do other other owners do and what
material would they recommend?

Cheers,¶
Darrell