Michael Lushbaugh in the 080208 MMD recites a list of problems with his
piano that are very similar to the ones I had with my 1906 Melville
Clark Apollo.  I acquired this piano about six months ago in a restored
state, but not assembled.  When I reassembled it, it played perfectly.

But as Fall set in and the heat came on, the piano began to play more
poorly as time passed.  The symptoms were almost identical to those of
Michael's.  A friend suggested that I put in a humidifier.  When I
first checked the humidity, it was running about 33%.  After putting in
the humidifier, I have been able to keep the humidity at 50-60%.  It
has taken over a month, but the problems have disappeared.

So my suggestion to Michael is to avoid any heroics and try raising the
humidity over an extended period of time.  It sure is easier and
cheaper.

Good luck,
Tom Hutchinson