My own opinion is that there is risk in using anything other than Proofide, and that only sparingly. For every successful treatment other than that one, I think I've seen stories of failure to balance it out. I would not touch the tension screw until you see how it rides and if it has enough tension. I don't believe you can test tension without riding it.
My approach has been to give the old saddle a light wash top and bottom with saddle soap to just get it somewhat clean, and be able to look at the leather. After inspecting it mount it up and see how it feels. If it feels like you want to ride it, put on a light Proofide and take her out. This is all assuming there are not excessive hidden cracks and no serious tears.
On Sun, Jan 31, 2010 at 5:56 PM, Al Knoll <anasasi@gmail.com> wrote:
> So diving into the fray with both feet, I have been given a rarely used but
> now 25yr old Brooks Pro. The trick is to make it rideable once more with
> out risk to undue damage to my delicate sensibilities. I have some
> proofide
> (vintage) and various other emollients, so what does the collective
> rendezvous knowledge offer in bringing the hide back to reasonable
> usefulness. The piece in question is not 'imprinted' with the
> characteristic bum signature, making me believe that suitable cajoling with
> the proper materials may restore it's intended glory. Hjertberg once had a
> handout there in Paly concerning doing new leather saddles right. Lost in
> the mists of time and moves, unfortunately. I promise to review Sheldon's
> missives on the matter before proceeding.
>
> So commentary is solicited, especially from those who have successfully
> resurrected dead cows like this one.
>
> Al Knoll
> (from my sunny rock in Sacramento, CA)
> _______________________________________________
>
--
Ken Freeman
Ann Arbor, MI USA