D Harp 3 Draw Prob

Kinya, loads of harp troubles this week.  Here's the latest...

On my Sedel 1847 D harp, I seem to be having some strange problems with the 3 draw reed, especially when starting from a bend -- and most notably when combining a little 4 draw with it.  On fast passages, it seems to "stick", not sounding for a moment, then all of the sudden kicking in.  I wondered if it might be technique, but I don't seem to have the problem when playing the same licks with my Special 20 or Crossover D harps.

Is the reed too "stiff"?  Is it me?  The Seydel definitely has a bit of a wider hole spacing, and of course the stainless reeds, so I wonder if the difference in embouchure has anything to do with it.

If it's the reed, what can I do to "loosen" it up?

Signed,

Frustrated in North Carolina