In regard to the comment "heavy grudge" against Player Piano Company,
I've had numerous ups-and-downs with them myself.

The most aggravating thing that ever happened with me was the argument
over three yards of No. 50 cloth.  I could hold it up to the light and
see "starry" light through the cloth that was more suitable for a Star
Trek background than for use in a player!

That didn't upset me; thinking some bad cloth had slipped through I gave
them a call.  But what was upsetting was the attitude of the staff at
Player Piano Company.  When I finally did get to talk to Durrell
Armstrong, he told me in so many words I didn't know what I was talking
about.  Anyway, I sent the cloth back and have never ordered No. 50
again.  I have probably wasted a thousand dollars on stuff that didn't
work from this firm.

Just because Durrell says something will work, don't take his word for it
-- use your own judgment.  Some of the things from Player Piano Company
work great, but there is stuff you can get (like pre-made Simplex valves)
that are more leaky than the old originals are!!

If you are tempted to buy something just to save you some time -- *don't*
buy if it's not made from the same material as the original.  You're
asking for trouble.  _Never_  use Durrell's instructions for rebuilding
Simplex valve units.  I followed them years ago and wound up locating
more units to finish my piano!!!

Don't get me wrong, this is not a anti-PPCo campaign.  I still use a lot
of goods from them and they work great.  But some of it is junk.  I buy
valve parts and such from them but that's about it.  Even then you have
to be careful that you don't get artificial leather or Neoprene, either
of which is usable in player pianos.  You just need to know what you're
looking for and really need.

Andy Taylor
Missouri

 [ Auto axiom:  If you want *free* advice, ask the salesman at the auto
 [ parts store; for *good* advice, ask your auto mechanic !  -- Robbie