steaming dampers - damper massage

[Matt Wynne]

I've had good results with metal files.  I use a chainsaw file (round, 
1/8"-3/16" dia) for monochords and bi-chords, and a flat file for the 
flats.  For flats that have dried gook on them from rusted strings, dried 
liquid, etc. I have used a small triangle file (maybe 3/16" per side) right 
on the string grooves.  I can file them with the dampers in the piano.

If the dampers are too far gone, doing this will yield moderate results but 
they should probably just be replaced.

-Matt