bellows losing air

[James323]

Have a problem with me accordion.
Every time im fixing the accordion to play, I have notice that the bellows start opening kind fast.

Where do you guys think im losing air on the bellows or the buttons. And what can i check to see where is losing air. Thanks
I’m in Los Angeles California

 

[debra]

If the "buttons" were losing the air that's the pallet felt+leather. In almost all cases that would cause the bellows to close faster than open. So if the bellows start opening kind-of fast it's not likely that it's the buttons (the notes) that cause the air loss.
In most cases when an accordion loses air, and especially on the bellows opening it is the seal ("bellows gasket") between the bellows frame and either the treble case or the bass case or both. So replacing the gasket tape would be my first suggestion, after checking (with a light) that there is no air leaking through the bellows, especially the corners. (When light gets through, so does air.)
There are several ways to detect air loss when it's so minute that the earlier suggestions do not work. You can move your eye around suspect areas as the eye can easily detect a faint breeze. The other technique is to hold a cigarette paper (on one end) so it would move if there is any air being blown onto it.

 

[Waldo]

Good couple of tips, Paul.