Scotty Greene is straight on correct -- misunderstanding the
manufacturer's concepts is practically a given all too frequently.
Undoubtedly bad valves, or too tight pouches, are in the Steger
player action that's been discussed over the past week or so.

So far as materials go, I have a 1920 Steinway OR grand, "cow and
calf", with its original stack cloth, that's as soft as a baby's
bottom, and no detectable pin holes.  I worry the cotton is rotting
but I won't disturb anything until something fails.  The cross valves
are probably tighter than when new.

The best advice is always, "if it works, don't fix it".

Tom Binnall
Seattle