worn back checks &squeaky wippens

[David Graham]

I'm interested in advice/experiences regarding two situations I
encountered recently.
Situation #1: a 12 year old Steinway B needed new hammers,which I
replaced.As I replaced the hammers, I noticed that 10-15 backchecks
were quite worn.(The hammer tails were very rough)Sure enough, two
days later the new hammertails cut through the backcheck leather.Is it
best/less expensive to releather the backchecks or to replace them? If I
releather them, where should I buy the leather, and what is the best way
to cut and glue it?

Situation #2: a 70 year old  Steinert with a new action and hammers from
Wally Brooks.  Everything is working well,but the action has a soft but
audible squeak on almost every note. It seems to come from the contact
between the rep lever and the spring.Pushing down on the lever as far
as it will go 4-5 times does two things:1)the spring becomes stronger
2)the noise disappears (but later comes back) Anyone ever have a
similar problem with Tokiwa parts? I have used them before, in a M&H
A,without any problems. Obviously I also need to talk to Wally, but
haven't had a chance yet.
David Graham@niu.edu
Northern Illinois University (Wim Blees Alma Mater)
Dekalb Il