Roger Waring of The Pianola Workshop asked for comments on the patent
leather valve facings, such as the #1117, available from Player Piano
Co.

I used these in the beginning, but stopped when I found that they
develop a tendency to curl after 15 years or so.  In fact, I received
a shipment some years ago of a odd size, and they were already in a
slight curve.

I now use only the finest Suede Calf Skin, and punch the facing using
the excellent punches available from Bob Streicher.  Custom made, you
can select the OD, and the ID dimensions.  The ID can be from a pin
prick, (For Ampico), to that of the metal or wood valve stem.  Leather
was good enough for the factory, and I found that attempting an
improvement caused early failures.  Bob Streicher can be contacted
at (570) 559-7403.

Al Pebworth
Pebworth's Player Piano Center
Chesapeake, Virginia

 [ Or write to
 [
 [  Robert Streicher
 [  P.O. Box 39
 [  Pond Eddy, New York 12770
 [  phone 570-559-7403
 [
 [ -- Robbie