After I had properly diagnosed this problem, I realized it was pretty darn basic, but I have to admit that it took me a good little while to figure it out - I didn't get it right away. I know there are "certain techs" on this list that will have the answer to this puzzler is less than five seconds - so how 'bout we restrict diagnostic responses to those with maybe five or six or less years experience? If they can't figure it out, then the experts will have it in a jiff. Let's give the newbies (or newbie-ish) a day. Early 50s Wurly spinet - with the separate capstan rail. Lady said a couple keys were sticking. Piano hadn't been played in years. The piano had been in the same home for over 50 years, but was recently moved across the room. Open piano up and immediately notice all hammer shanks a good 3/8" or so off the hammer rest rail. Measure blow - about 1-1/8". All keys work, but if you play some of them slow, the jack doesn't reset under the butt, and hence the "sticking" keys. Some dampers are lifted just off the strings - others have no follow through. Everything else with the action appears "normal". Piano overall appears to be in better than average shape for what it is. What's going on here?
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