361 Matching Annotations
- Last 7 days
-
www.laurenzvangaalen.nl www.laurenzvangaalen.nl
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Electric Portable Typewriter Dual Belt Replacement using O rings - YouTube<br /> by [[Phoenix Typewriter]] <br /> accessed on 2025-08-28T12:05:
o-ring replacements for Smith-Corona typewriters<br /> www.torkdistributors.com<br /> Filter O-ring replacements<br /> W34-OR 152030 <br /> 4.125" diameter
also could try Culligan OR-34 versions
-
- Aug 2025
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Buying a Bad Typewriter: Project IBM (part 1) - YouTube<br /> by Sarah Everett at [[Just My Typewriter]]<br /> accessed on 2025-08-28T00:11:36
A small sampling of what you're in for with respect to IBM typewriter repair.
-
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
The Smith Corona Five Series (why i love them!) - YouTube<br /> by [[Just My Typewriter]]<br /> accessed on 2025-08-25T10:35:08
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.comYouTube1
-
bestrepairs.com.au bestrepairs.com.au
-
When your washing machine stops working or your oven breaks down, you face a tough choice. Should you try to fix it yourself or call a professional? This question about professional appliance repair vs DIY comes up often for homeowners. Both options have good and bad points, so it’s important to understand what works best for your situation.
Debating between professional and DIY appliance repair in Sydney? Learn the key differences, risks, and benefits to help you make the best decision for your home appliances.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Olympia SG Typewriter Platen Knob Shaft Bent, Repaired, Straightened<br /> by [[Duane Jensen]] of [[Phoenix Typewriter]]<br /> accessed on 2025-08-18T08:17:57
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
bestrepairs.com.au bestrepairs.com.au
-
Sydney’s humid climate and cooking culture put extra strain on kitchen ventilation systems. Household appliance failures or lack of usage directly affect indoor air quality, like some cooking pollutants, for instance, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and even benzene (a known carcinogen) accumulate if not properly vented. Whether you’re dealing with a rangehood fan not working in your apartment or in your townhouse, understanding these common problems can save you time and money.
Discover common range hood issues in Sydney homes and expert solutions to fix them. Learn practical troubleshooting tips to restore efficiency, safety, and performance to your kitchen ventilation.
-
-
www.phillytypewriter.com www.phillytypewriter.com
-
Colman Manufacturing<br /> by [[Philly Typewriter]]<br /> accessed on 2025-08-05T08:20:31
https://cmfg.com/<br /> archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20210623172406/https://cmfg.com/
-
-
typecast.munk.org typecast.munk.org
-
Typewriter Repair Tools Reference: 1960 Ames Catalog<br /> by [[Ted Munk]]<br /> accessed on 2025-08-05T08:14:59
-
-
typecast.munk.org typecast.munk.org
-
Soldering Typeface to Typebar & Use of Type Gauge S-221<br /> by [[Ted Munk]]<br /> accessed on 2025-08-05T07:58:31
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
reply to u/MirageAnne at https://reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1mgmwkq/remington_rand_17/
There are two general types of "sticky keys": 1. sticky going up 2. sticky coming down
Sticky going up
For stickiness slowing down the typebar (on the way up or down), it's likely that you've got oil, dirt, dust, or other sludge in the segment of your machine. You'll want to flush out your segment with some solvent and potentially blow things out with compressed air to remove the source of the friction.
While you're flushing out the segment with your solvent of choice (lacquer thinner, paint thinner, mineral spirits, alcohol, etc.), actually move the typebars using the keys or by other means. This will help to get them moving and allow the solvent and subsequently compressed air to help flush the oil, dust, hair, etc. out of your machine. You've already got a mechanical cleaning device of sorts (the typebar itself) inside the segment, so move it while you're flushing it out!
It may take a few repeated treatments/attempts to get it all clear for all the keys, but it's far easier than taking everything apart.
When you're done, it's common wisdom that one should NOT oil the segment.
Sticky going down
If your typebar(s) are sticking due to friction at the typing point, then they need some gentle forming to the right or the left to prevent them from rubbing on the typing point so that they can fall back down to the type rest. The two videos below will help describe and demonstrate the symptoms as well as the repair. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrlt6VyC8D0&t=485s - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Arspyq1w4Iw
Other considerations
It's much less common, but once everything is clean and properly aligned, if you're still seeing sluggishness, it may be the case that the spring on the individual key has broken or become disconnected which prevents it from returning back to the type rest.
-
- Jul 2025
-
thetype.space thetype.spaceRepairs1
-
$75 an hour for cleaning and repair. Additional fees if parts are needed
https://thetype.space/repair-services/
-
-
bestrepairs.com.au bestrepairs.com.au
-
When your cooktop burner stops working mid-way, it can really throw your kitchen routine into chaos. If a gas burner that is not igniting, an electric element is heating unevenly, or flames aren’t burning correctly, be alarmed. The good news is that by opting for professional cooktop repairs in Sydney, you can restore your cooktop’s function while keeping safety a top priority. Cooktop repairs are essential because cooktops take a lot of wear and tear. They have to deal with conditions like heat, moisture, and food spills every day. Over time, this may cause mechanical or electrical issues. When you know the common problems with cooktop burners, it helps you understand when it’s time to call a professional instead of trying risky DIY fixes. If you’re experiencing issues with other household appliances, you may also want to look into appliance repairs in Sydney to resolve similar concerns throughout your home.
Discover expert tips for cooktop repair in Sydney. Learn how to troubleshoot common issues, when to call a pro, and how to keep your cooktop working efficiently.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Restarting the Channel!<br /> by [[Will Davis]]
Restarting his typewriter-related channel because he's seen a bunch of of older typewriter collectors passing away.
-
-
www.amazon.com www.amazon.com
-
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074SV5WTX
Drive belts u/NisKildegaard recommends for SMC electric typewriters. via https://new.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1f7mhz6/comment/llb1peu/
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Electric Repair Tip: Drive Belt Replacements by [[Sarah Everett]] of [[Just My Typewriter]]
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
reply to u/VampySiren on https://reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1m7yz1m/silveretti_ribbon_vibrator_getting_stuck_in/
On most machines, the ribbon vibrator is meant to slide up and down freely and it typically returns with just gravity. 9 times out of 10 the reason that the vibrator doesn't go back down because it's either dirty/gummy or has been slightly bent. Put a few drops of mineral spirits or similar degreaser on it and give it a light scrub with a toothbrush. If it doesn't move freely after a round or two of this, is it bent and hanging on something? If so, bend it so that it moves freely.
The other 1 of 10 times, it's the ribbon that's been installed correctly.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
you can adjust the strike of individual typebars by either filing or peening the ring-stop tab, file to hit harder & peen to lighten it. for your situation, you will want to file the ring-stop down a bit; make sure to tilt the machine up(or on its side) so the debris created doesn’t fall down into the pivot segment, then blow the area out with compressed air. if you go to Hobby Lobby or an RC model shop, you should be able to get a cheap set of needle files which will do the job; follow up with 600-800 grit sandpaper to remove burrs
via u/TypewriterJustice at https://reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1m1w6s2/tune_up_key_strokes/n42glpz/
-
roller pliers are for adjusting the height of individual letters(increasing the arc to lower & decreasing arc to raise, which in extreme case can then require adjustment of the slug to put it ‘square’ again relative to the platen) adjusting the strike for most models is done by either filing or peening the ring-stop tab near the base of the typebar(as is the case for OP’s smith corona)
via u/TypewriterJustice https://www.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1m1w6s2/tune_up_key_strokes/
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
We R Memory Maker Typecast Typewriter Review! (Royal Classic, Royal Epoch) by [[Transcendental Airwaves]]
He's got a mention of where to adjust the on-feet/motion adjustment screws are on the carriage at the 6:20 timestamp.
-
-
myoldtypewriter.com myoldtypewriter.com
-
Good Enough Is Very Fine: Royal KMG Tabulator Issue by [[maryech]]
Carriage on a Royal KMG was grinding, so Mary disconnected the spring on the brake gear for the tabulator rack to fix the issue.
The brake gear on Royals isn't meant to be engaged during normal typing operation.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Meet the Man Keeping Antique Clocks Ticking | Before it’s Gone Episode 6
Generally two types of clocks:<br /> - spring wound<br /> - weight based
-
-
bestrepairs.com.au bestrepairs.com.au
-
Sydney residents know the frustration of a broken dishwasher, especially during dinner cleanup time. Whether it’s a family gathering or just another busy weeknight, a malfunctioning dishwasher can put your kitchen routine into chaos. Most dishwasher problems aren’t as complicated as they seem; they do require prompt attention to prevent water damage or more expensive repairs down the line.
Get fast and reliable dishwasher repair services in Sydney with Best Repairs. We offer same-day diagnostics and expert fixes to restore your kitchen efficiency.
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
Very sad to report that Jerry Wallace, my typewriter maintenance and repairman passed away last year. This news is new to me since I lost contact with him when he retired and moved to Northern California. What a loss to the typewriter community. I used to take my typewriters to Jerry to fix and polish up at his Salinas home repair shop.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/4770669677/?multi_permalinks=10162232824949678
Reported via Elisabeth Paton.
-
-
www.inc.com www.inc.com
-
www.ebay.com www.ebay.com
-
https://www.ebay.com/usr/spanghew
A gentleman in MA named Nis Kildegaard heavily refurbishes and sells various electric and mechanical typewriters on eBay under the seller name "spanghew." via Derrell Sherrod https://www.facebook.com/groups/705152958470148/posts/1023976513254456/?comment_id=1024077156577725
See also: https://www.youtube.com/c/NisKildegaard
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Royal Arrow by [[Joe Van Cleave]]
-
Joe Van Cleave on the importance of holding your mouth just right as you effectuate typewriter repairs.
-
Description of a set screw on the drive mechanism on the Royal Arrow / Royal Quiet De Luxe portables' ribbon reversal system for cleanly effectuating the reversal
-
https://youtu.be/qrlt6VyC8D0?si=yHjByRVLa2BMYt-4&t=485
Description of typebars sticking at the typing point and needing forming to repair them.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
We recommend people come to our shop and type. We charge $5 an hour or you can look into our rental programs. We have a lot of people come in just to hang out and type. No plans on actually owning one, and that's fine with us. Come in, play, leave without the 10-30 pounds of metal with you lol. We also sell and service machine. Prices vary some. But all our machine have a 60 day guarantee from date of purchase. We do ship machines as well if you find something on our website that you like. Assuming you aren't near the Dayton Ohio area.
u/Dangerous-Ratio6448 is a typewriter repair person at TB Writers Plus
-
-
boffosocko.com boffosocko.com
-
Learning Typewriter Maintenance and Repair by [[Chris Aldrich]]
-
-
typespec.com typespec.com
-
https://typespec.com/typewriter-service-apprentice-training-update-2/
Paul Lundy has a 12 week apprenticeship program for typewriter repair at Bremerton Typewriter.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
https://www.reddit.com/user/palump/
Works at Bremerton Office Machine Co., 245 Fourth St, Suite 503, Bremerton, WA 98310
Given the screen name, it's likely Paul Lundy? Bremerton Typewriter
Cross reference: - https://reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1lgaptx/how_do_you_source_parts/myw369m/
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1i0w488/do_you_tip_for_machine_servicing/
Tipping is generally not encouraged at typewriter shops.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
At our shop we know that we'll age out. Everyone does. To seed the typewriter field we have a 12 week apprentice training program. Hopefully a few get the repair mojo and open up their own shop. Or just become more adept at the hobby. I can only hope once the time comes we have someone willing.
via u/palump at https://reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1i1ydyz/nobody_in_boston_big_enough_to_fill_these_shoes/m7e497l/
Bremerton Typewriter has a 12 week apprentice training program as a means of helping to create the next generation of typewriter repair people.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Reese Electronics on Westwood Blvd in Los Angeles. Helmut was a mechanical engineer for Olivetti.
https://reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/160pen0/typewriter_repair_shops_in_the_usa/jxryjns/
-
-
www.printables.com www.printables.com
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
www.berkeleyside.org www.berkeleyside.org
-
Berkeley’s California Typewriter, star of documentary, closes shop by [[Cirrus Wood]] 2020-02-21
-
Ken Alexander worked for 20 years at California Typewriter as the shop’s principal technician on manual typewriters. But these days he’s working three days a week at Berkeley Typewriter, “though that number will likely go up,” he said.
-
-
www.nytimes.com www.nytimes.com
-
Tom Furrier, who owns the Cambridge Typewriter Company in Massachusetts, has sold several typewriters to Mr. Cidoni and said that high school and college students have become a staple of his business.
-
-
www.berkeleyside.org www.berkeleyside.org
-
Joe Banuelos, its third owner, has run the shop for nearly twenty years. Joe’s brother, Jesse Banuelos, who works as a typewriter technician at the store
-
Herbert Permillion, who runs California Typewriter Company on San Pablo Avenue, said he was also at a loss to explain the trend. “I’m almost in awe to some extent, but then I can sort of understand that some people tend to reach back and some people want things a little simpler.”
-
California Typewriter Company was opened as California Typewriter on Shattuck Avenue by Glenn Tuttle in 1949. Permillion bought the shop in 1981 from its second owner, Joseph Mundy, at its second location on University and moved it to its current location on San Pablo in 1986.
-
A fascination with vintage typewriters also accounts for the recent rise in sales, said Joe. In particular, people in Japan are buying typewriters built in the 1920s, 30s, and 40s. The store will charge $250 to repair a classic Olivetti, but that machine can be resold for $1,000 in Japan, said Joe. “They buy them because they are antique. There’s a big demand because they are part of American history.”
from 2011
-
- Jun 2025
-
bestrepairs.com.au bestrepairs.com.au
-
A washing machine grinding noise can be disruptive and alarming to your daily routine. Understanding these unusual noises is important for maintaining your appliance’s longevity and performance. Washing machine troubleshooting requires systematic identification of the underlying causes, worn components, whether it’s loose objects, or mechanical failures. Ignoring these grinding sounds can lead to costly repairs, complete appliance failure, or water damage.
Is your washing machine making a grinding noise? Learn the common causes and effective solutions to fix grinding sounds in washing machines from Sydney’s appliance experts.
-
-
www.biedlers-belts.com www.biedlers-belts.com
-
themechanicaltype.blogspot.com themechanicaltype.blogspot.comVOGUE1
-
VOGUE by [[Lucas Dul]]
Lucas talks about swapping out the segment and typebars of a Royal P to transplant a Vogue typeface.
The design changed in about 1930 for a different width.
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
Event by Indy Type Shop, Siren Hand and 2 others2621 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN, United States, Indiana 46203Duration: 9 hrPublic · Anyone on or off Facebook14 MAY | 11a-8p | GRAND OPENING!2621 Shelby Street, Indianapolis 46203Indy Type Shop opens its doors for regular business hours, starting 11am May 14th.
grand opening of Indy Type Shop in Indianapolis, IN on 2025-05-14<br /> https://www.facebook.com/events/9811716722250635/
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Repairing typewriter broken carriage spring. #typewriters #Olympia #repairing by [[Subham Kumar]]
Tags
Annotators
URL
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Royal QDL Carriage Removal/Install-The Easy Way…do you want to fight? by [[The HotRod Typewriter Co.]]
SM7 carriage bearings won't work on a QDL-style typewriter, but Royal Diana ones will. It requires removing a pin from the tab mechanism (after loosening a side nut). There's also bilateral carriage stop nuts which require removing at least one.
-
-
-
https://www.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1lhemm3/olympia_sm9_1973_model_platen_and_feed_roller/
Notes for platen removal on an Olympia SM9.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
https://youtu.be/ciVbKWMO3xY?si=qYWgTCMm0EJivN9M&t=462
Sarah describes the issue of slightly and accidentally forming an important piece while carrying out repairs. These sorts of repairs are incredibly subtle and require careful troubleshooting and observation.
Tags
Annotators
URL
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
Gerren HotRod TypewriterCoThey are tough to install. It's not the taking things apart that gets you, it's putting it back together. I recommend not pulling a Royal carriage unless it's broken to the point there is no other option. If you like the color you can buy another $25 QDL and put the body on the new one. There is almost no reason to remove the carriage on these unless you need to replace it with another or swap out the main escapement
https://www.facebook.com/groups/705152958470148/posts/1010406587944782/
Removing the carriage of the Royal Quiet De Luxe is generally not recommended.
-
-
www.harborfreight.com www.harborfreight.com
-
https://www.harborfreight.com/200-piece-assorted-spring-set-67562.html
An inexpensive set of replacement springs for typewriter repair.
-
-
www.amazon.com www.amazon.com
-
https://www.amazon.com/Pattern-Thermos-Insulated-Stainless-Tumbler/dp/B0DQT9J4WM?th=1
Gift idea for typewriter restorers, repairpeople, etc. h/t Bryan of Typing Pint.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Jennifer Colombo of Colombo Collection has ties to Ellijay, GA.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
$600 for refurbishing a machine that only cost $250 is not a great investment. I think your prices are a bit unrealistic. As far as the posts go: there are always two sides to every story🤷♀️
reply to u/SisterGoldenHair70 at https://reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1lbjr5f/sorry_to_say/mxz1ag2/
I'm honestly curious about your definition of a "machine that only cost $250" is? Make/Model? Where was it bought? What is the actual condition (both cosmetic exterior and mechanical interior as well as cleanliness)? Also, what is your definition of investment with respect to how you're going to use it? Is it a display machine? Is it for display and the occasional addressed envelope or grocery store list? Or is it something you're planning on giving moderate to heavy use on a daily or weekly basis as a professional writer?
Most typewriter repair shops won't spend more than $20 on purchasing a machine and typically they're getting machines donated for free (or for the cost of coming to pick them up); then they spend hours to clean, oil, adjust, repair and restore them for sale in the $400-600 range unless they've got rarer colors or typefaces. (At this level, you're probably not getting any new rubber at all.) The level of restoration is definitely a choice as there are restorers out there who can easlily charge in the $1,500+ range depending on how much work you want done and to what level.
As an example, if someone chooses to spend $120-200 pus shipping on something like an old/dirty Olympia SM3 with old gaskets from an outlet like ShopGoodwill.com (the current going rate for one in unknown condition and only using photos) that is going to need several hundred dollars of repair work, that's their choice. If they don't have the expertise, it's far better to buy one outright in the $500 range from a shop. Usually people are just keeping that $120 machine and limping along with what it offers instead of cleaning it up or they attempt to do the clean up work themselves. This work may seem "free", but it's time, effort, and expense of one sort or another. Economists call this opportunity cost.
There is a massive information imbalance in the typewriter market between buyers and sellers, because incredibly few people really have any idea of what they've got and what sort of condition it is in. This imbalance means that most professional shops are an absolute steal if you're looking for something in excellent condition that's going to be a work-a-day typewriter or be in good shape for another 50-75 years.
As a small example, an indiviual could call JJ Short and get a platen recovered for around $100 plus two way shipping, but you take it to a shop and you're probably looking at $180 because they're going to charge you for the time, effort, and cost of knowing what to do, where to ship it, taking it off, putting it back on, and doing the appropriate ring & cylinder, on-feet, and motion adjustments on
-
reply to u/TypewriterJustice at https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1lbjr5f/sorry_to_say/mxunsb6/
I think the real crime here was the quote of $200 for all this work. $200 should just barely cover the recovered platen, rollers, and new feet with any margin. The full clean, oil, and adjust is a few more hours at $40-75/hour and that's not even getting to the parts or labor on the tougher troubleshooting and repair portions. With this rough diagnosis and potential issues, I (and many others I'm sure) would be quoting closer to $500-600 for a refurbish job at this level.
Living in the LA area, I'm blessed to have 7 shops within a reasonable drive, but if I put a machine into the queue at most of them it'd be a two or three month's wait time at the very best. Most of them have been at the game for decades much less in the midst of also recently setting up a brick and mortar shop.
As a point of comparison, Lucas Dul publishes his wait list on his website (currently 84 people) where he states "Average repair cost is $300-350 for general cleaning, service, and minor repairs. Average turnaround time is 2-3 weeks." Perhaps Charlie might benefit from creating a wait list and not taking machines into the shop until his time and attention can turn directly to them?
It's not often addressed here in this fora how much one should expect to either pay or wait for repair services which aren't evenly distributed across the United States and likely even less so in many other countries. In the broader scheme of things, I think that you get a far better deal at professional shops than you're going to find within the broader public of so-called typewriter sellers (antique shops, thrift stores, etc.)
As a point of reference, I'm an advanced hobbyist with my own garage-based shop for my personal collection and even I get one or two queries a week about repairing or restoring the machines of others, so I'm at least reasonably aware of what some of the wait times can look like. I wish I had the time or stock of parts machines to do more than a handful of friends and family repairs on top of my own personal repair work.
Sadly, at the end of the day, it sounds like both sides were potentially not good at communicating expectations about how long repairs would take. If nothing else we should all be sharing more details about these issues to help level set how this all works for the broader typewriter community.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Typewriter repair people on r/typewriters:
- Lucas Dul of Typewriter Chicago: u/Lucasdul2 #
- Kirk Jackson of Nashville Typewriter: u/NashvilleTypewriter
- Scott Connnors of Stephentown Typewriter: u/scottconnors #
- Typewriter Justice of Keller, TX: u/TypewriterJustice
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
typewriter repairman here - with magnification & needle files it is sometimes possible to reshape the squashed portion of the slug(which usually requires repositioning it afterwards to get an even print) but my advice is to embrace it as part of what makes that particular machine unique…there’s literally no such thing as perfection, and twenty years from now you’ll be able to look at something you wrote & go “ohhhh this was done on that Olivetti…” (and yes, you could also replace the slug completely, but that’s a whole different can of worms)
via TypewriterJustice at https://www.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1lb8brp/type_slug_question/
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
greenscreen.network greenscreen.network
-
Governments must prohibit planned obsolescence and champion the right to repair. Current hardware business models encourage devices, including servers needed for AI, to break prematurely in a practice called planned obsolescence. Industry and policymakers should incentivise circularity and longevity to extend the life of existing hardware. Furthermore, the right to repair and freely modify technology products should be strengthened.
Aligns with motivations for open source tech.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Type Shop, Ep. 3: How to remove and install the carriage on a Royal Standard Desktop Typewriter by [[Typewriter Chicago]]
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Plastic Repair Welding MELDING Reinforced with Metal Demo DIY (#1) by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
- May 2025
-
newenglandtypewriter.com newenglandtypewriter.com
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
these 7:36 are the ones i picked up and these were 7:38 three and three-fourths by four by 7:40 one-eighth
Sarah Everett has used water filter o-rings of 3 3/4 x 4 1/8 to replace the drive belts of her electric typewriters.
-
i used a saw to just make the 6:46 one edge of that phillips head a little 6:48 bit deeper so that i could then use a 6:51 flat top screwdriver in there to remove 6:52 that screw the next time that way when i 6:55 put that screw back in there i could 6:56 remove it later just using a flat head 6:58 screwdriver instead of a phillips 7:00 now this was a little bit of a ratchet 7:02 job but it did the trick and with that i 7:04 had a working electric typewriter
Sarah Everett suggests using a saw to turn Phillips head screws into a flat head screw if they've been stripped.
-
i couldn't 4:50 get into the typewriter the screws were 4:52 in there so tight that there was no way 4:54 i could get that bottom off of the 4:55 machine so i did the only logical thing 4:58 i could think of i set it upside down 4:59 and then forgot about it for a really 5:01 long time i then went back in once i got 5:03 the confidence to go into this machine
Confidence is a (the?) key ingredient of typewriter repair.
-
i don't know 4:26 how i fixed it i kind of stabbed it a 4:28 lot with a screwdriver until it worked
rofl!
-
in fact almost 0:28 all of my successful repairs have come 0:30 from a lot of faith trust a little bit 0:32 of pixie dust and a lot of googling
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona H Electronic Typewriter Repair High Pitch Buzz Rattle Disassemble Fix by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
https://www.facebook.com/groups/typewritermaintenance/posts/4083165991920819/
Kenneth Alexander begins tearing down a Hermes 3000 typewriter for servicing.
-
-
typewritermuse.com typewritermuse.com
-
https://typewritermuse.com/ <br /> Bob Marshall
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Everyone mentioned most of the usual tricks, but one.
To get your sticky typewriter keys working again, while you're flushing out the segment with your solvent of choice (lacquer thinner, paint thinner, mineral spirits, alcohol, etc.), actually move the typebars using the keys or by other means. This will help to get them moving and allow the solvent and subsequently compressed air to help flush the oil, dust, hair, etc. out of your machine. You've already got a mechanical cleaning device of sorts (the typebar itself) inside the segment, so move it while you're flushing it out!
It may take a few repeated treatments/attempts to get it all clear for all the keys, but it's far easier than taking everything apart.
reply to u/nogaesallowed at https://www.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1cp75ln/how_do_you_clean_a_1mm_gap/
People were recommending all sorts of ideas and solvents here, including folded card stock, tooth brushes, floss, toothpicks, interdental brushes, wood cuticle sticks, Swiss Army knife tweezers, microbrushes, and even an ultrasonic cleaner.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Royal Futura 800 Typewriter Plastic Key Top White Crud Removal Cleaning Servicing by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
For the white, crusty out gassing (or off gassing) on plastic typewriter keys, Duane recommends a round or two of Simple Green with a stiff bristle brush. Follow this up with a scrub down using WD-40 to displace the water from the Simple Green and then follow up with denatured alcohol, which is safe on plastics, and a wipe down with a rag to dry.
-
- Apr 2025
-
www.nytimes.com www.nytimes.com
-
Peter V. Tytell, a Typewriter Whisperer, Is Dead at 74 by [[Richard Sandomir]]
Tags
- typewriter repair people
- The Greatful Dead
- typewriters
- Jerry B. Killian
- history
- Peter V. Tytell
- John F. Kennedy
- Mark Zuckerberg
- Sam Giancana
- obituaries
- American Society of Questioned Document Examiners
- Lawrence X. Cusack III
- Steve Miller Band
- George W. Bush
- Janis Joplin
- Paul Ceglia
- forensic document examination
- Marilyn Monroe
- Texas Air National Guard
Annotators
URL
-
-
akblongs.nl akblongs.nl
-
Per Pelicram, AKB Longs does platen recovering for typewriters in Europe: Send an email to rollen@akblongs.nl Prices are about 40€ + VAT for portable platens + shipping both ways
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Olympia Typewriter Spacers 3D printed with TPU Filament by [[Subham Kumar]]
-
-
www.thingiverse.com www.thingiverse.com
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
I was able to buy replacement toothed belts from an industrial seller via eBay by measurement. Actual Gates belts. Mine fit a Smith Corona electric 6TE and the part number is 3M315 but once you know the width and length it’s a matter of translating it into a Gates part number.
-
- Mar 2025
-
www.nytimes.com www.nytimes.com
-
A Type-In to Say Goodbye to a New England Institution by Scott Cacciola and Jillian Freyer for New York Times 2025-03-24
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
-
Two poets to open a typewriter and book shop in Garfield Park by [[Sophie Young]]
recently opened typewriter repair shops, 2025
-
Indy Type Shop will be at 2621 Shelby St., which used to be a gun shop and then a cell phone store.
Usually it might have been typewriter shop, gun shop, then cell phone store, so it's intriguing to see the opposite ordering.
-
-
www.bbc.com www.bbc.com
-
Jim Riegert, now in his 70s, remembers what it used to be like. "Back then, typewriters were pretty big. Typewriters and adding machines," he says, referring to desktop calculators. "It got really difficult in the typewriter business about 25 years ago," he says. "The internet was coming on and killing us, too." He runs Typewriters.com and, despite a decline in sales in recent decades, he still shifts four or five electric IBM typewriters every week.
-
Paul Lundy, who runs Bremerton Office Machine Company, a typewriter repair business in Seattle.
-
another customer clutching an old typewriter will walk into Mike Marr's shop in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
www.markcoggins.com www.markcoggins.com
-
the lever for later machines was connected with a different sized pin, which makes finding donor machines challenging as pins from the more common newer machines won’t fit the older ones.
-
It also interesting to note that loss of the carriage return lever is apparently a common problem on Studio 44 Series Is and Series IIs.
-
Ole Kehlet of Kehlet Typewriter in Sacramento
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Remington 5: Learning how to replace feed rollers by [[Just My Typewriter]]
-
-
abc13.com abc13.com
-
His low rate, $68.50 regardless of the problem, allows Smitty to enjoy the process of fixing a typewriter for its merit rather than its profit. As he simply states, "I'm doing this to stay alive."
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
How a Mechanical Typewriter Works by [[Animagraffs]]
-
- Feb 2025
-
www.gates.com www.gates.com
-
https://www.gates.com/us/en.html
Sells belts including v-belts which might be used for typewriter repair parts.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
The Hermes 3000 repair manual has a really good section on type alignment including tools, according to Joe Van Cleave. (9:17)
-
-
www.vescovorestauri.it www.vescovorestauri.it
-
https://www.vescovorestauri.it/
Alessio Vescovo looks like he does typewriter restoration and recovers platens in Europe (Italy) as well: https://www.vescovorestauri.it/laboratorio/european-typewriter-platen-recovery-service/
Found via https://typewriterdatabase.com/1956-underwood-de-luxe.24945.typewriter
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
archive.org archive.org
-
Triumph Adler Tippa / Tippa S / Contessa De Luxe Service Manual - T.A. Vertriebs-GmbH Nürnberg<br /> by [[T.A. Vertriebs-GmbH Nürnberg]]
-
- Jan 2025
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
writingball.blogspot.com writingball.blogspot.com
-
Royal Quiet De Luxe after ultrasonic cleaning, blow drying, and lubrication with mineral spirits, Blue Creeper, and a dash of gun oil.
I read this as a mixture of mineral spirits, Blue Creeper and a bit of gun oil which is applied after cleaning as a means of lubricating a typewriter.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Hi, it depends on the shop and the person doing the work. I diagnose for a flat fee of $20. For manual machines, general cleaning and service is billed at $165 with repairs at $65/hrs plus parts. Teardowns and restorations are billed purely hourly. This job is a total of $1,100 with the teardown as well as a frame weld. The welding required parts prepping, gas fees, post processing... and took about 5 hours total. The rest of the machine is about 15 hours so far. Still have about four to go. So yeah, I'm technically supposed to bill another $400 or so, but I'm going to let that slide since the client is already paying a lot for a machine worth way less. Typewriter repair is expensive, especially when it's done to the level of detail that I go to. Very few shops put this much care and attention into these machines. All that being said, the average job on a manual typewriter at my shop usually runs around $300. Full clean, and usual repairs
Typewriter Chicago / Lucas Dul rates: - Diagnosis for $20 - Manuals: general cleaning and service: $165 - repairs at $65/hour plus parts - average job on manuals runs around $400 - teardowns and restorations billed purely hourly around $55/hour
This example is $1,100 for 5 hours of frame/welding work and 15 hours of tear down, cleaning and re-assembly. He'll likely go 4 hours over, but is discounting it.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
www.theguardian.com www.theguardian.com
-
virtualhermans.com virtualhermans.com
-
Lucas Dul does an overview of affordable and available tools for typewriter repair as well as more advanced
Basic Tools
- screwdriver sets
- Carpenter screwdrivers (come to a point) the point can slip and causecam out screws
- Hollow ground - provide the most amount of torque and prevent cam-out problems (also called gunsmith He uses the 0623 Chapman set (the number is the date of international typewriter day) The large tip can be problematic
- long reach screwdriver
- magnetic screwdriver
- tempered stainless steel ruler (as a screwdriver, especially
- microdrivers (usually used for eyeglasses or electronics)
- spring hooks (push/pull)
- Fixture from an embroidery set with length for getting length
- grab hooks
- pliers
- standard needle nose pliers
- 45-90 degree pliers (he uses more often)
- wire cutters (for modifying springs in machines and modifying links in machines)
- parallel draw pieces (with heavy duty cutters)
- Mechanics' wrench set
- prefer cast ones
- socket screwdrivers (fixed hex screwdriver) expecially for shift adjustment on the Royal Ps
- Chapman's has a mini rachet 1/4" socket in it's 0623 set
- Forceps especially a long pair for IBM Selectrics (via Duane Jensen)
- Tweezers
- Blowtorches
- alcohol torches (for heating and bending metal)
- soldering, brazing, and heat shrinking
- small butane torch (cigarette lighter use)
- Oilers with needlepoint applicator (he uses sewing machine oil)
- One can use the surface tension of the oil to place a dot on the tip of a scewdriver (flat head) and then place the dot within a machine with reasonable precision
- MIG Pliers - have cutouts for taking rubber off of old feedrollers (otherwise these pliers are used for welding); he describes it as the nutcracker of the typewriter world
- strap wrench (especially for removing platen knobs to prevent damage)
- knife (butter knife)
- razor blade for trimming rubber (otherwise too thin for other applications)
- flashlight (simple is fine)
- marker (Sharpie)
- marking orientation of removed parts (washes off with alcohol)
- hammer
- retainer clip pliers (especially for IBMs, Brothers, Swintecs) with spare e- and c-clips (some have thumbscrews for minimizing damage to clips) openers are more useful than "closers"
- Bristol wrenches - looks like Allen Keys, but with star cross section for bristol locks in IBM machines
- Hand crank (for IBM Selectrics) thread into the operational cam shaft
Intermediate Tools
- segment bearing rod (good for removing individual typebars)
- drinking straw for ball bearings on royal portables and S-C portables and flat tops staggered 1/2" ball bearings with orbital gear (star-shaped) - snip opposite sides to insert orbital ring and ball bearing for holding and placement in typewriter
- carpenter's pencil for marking
Advanced/Specialty tools
- t-bender for forming metal (exp. thin pieces)
- 9 jaw pliers for bending typebars
- peening pliers (for manipulating and stretching materials)
- wheel benders (he doesn't use often)
- eyelete tool for putting eyelets in typewritter ribbon
- files (small/cheap) widen gaps inside of type guides when necessary or thinning out tight pieces
Very specialized
- Type slug solder jig or solder guide (30:52)
- keyring pliers ($400 and above to purchase)
- multimeter for checking circuit components on electric models. Primarily using Ohm setting to see if current is passing through parts, otherwise they're broken.
Honorable mentions
- center punch for drilling points and new screws
- dental mirror for looking into machines
- spring gauge to set 2lbs for desktop and 1lb for portables
Q&A
air compressors are useful for cleaning
Don't damage screws on older machines.
US used imperial screws until 1940/50s and machines after are all metric.
3 dessert island tools<br /> - screwdrivers, pliers, spring hook
- screwdriver sets
-
- Dec 2024
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Royal Quiet Deluxe Typewriter Cuts Off Top of Letters Ribbon Lift Adjusted, Repaired Character Print by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
If the tops of one or two individual letters is being cut off, it may require forming of the letter's assembly to have it engage with ribbon lift bar a tad earlier.
This is different in form from an on feet adjustment.
-
-
www.etsy.com www.etsy.com
-
https://www.etsy.com/shop/BrooksawAntiques<br /> Adam of Brooksaw Antiques<br /> Indicates 5 years of typewriter repair experience in an individual listing from eBay.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
(Some summary of ring & cylinder adjustments based on other notes)
A new platen in many cases will help to solve some of the proximal problem, but you'll still have heavy wear on your paper/ribbon and your new platen over time as a result. The first adjustments a pro typewriter repair person would make after installing a new platen would be to check the ring & cylinder, on feet, and motion which can all be subtly out of alignment with a new platen.
Pretty much every typewriter in modern era has adjustment points for this. All three of the machines you name definitely do. You'll find some of the basics and adjustment points for several machines described at https://typewriterdatabase.com/1945-AMES-OAMI-MechanicalTrainingMan.v1-ringcylinder.manual. If you look at the manuals for specific machines that Ted Munk has collected at the typewriterdatabase.com, you'll find how/where to make those adjustments. Several on Polt's website describe the adjustment as well: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-manuals.html#servicemanuals
Some sources may describe the adjustment as hammer and anvil as opposed to ring and cylinder.
You're also likely to find YouTube videos on them as well (I'd check Phoenix Typewriter's channel first, though I do recall he mislabeled one once on a S-C Skyriter which was really an on feet/motion adjustment.) Duane's also got a really subtle and uncommon adjustment on a Royal QDL here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOET0i3DsR8
Gerren gives an adjustment nod for the Olympia SM series here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=2jnC6ODB834&t=670s And here's a blogpost about the adjustment points for an Olympia SF: https://ber10thal.com/blog/repairing-a-1961-olympia-sf/
Related blogposts from Munk for a Brother JP-1:
- https://munk.org/typecast/2022/01/23/adjusting-ring-cylinder-on-a-brother-jp-1/
- https://munk.org/typecast/2013/07/30/typewriter-repair-101-adjusting-vertical-typeface-alignment-segmentbasket-shift-typewriters/
Hopefully your machines and hardware appreciate the finer adjustments and wear better over time as a result.
Happy typing!
-
-
ber10thal.com ber10thal.com
-
The last adjustment I needed to make is sometimes called ring and cylinder. It moves the platen closer or further from the typebars. I think the rubber on the platen over time dried and shrunk a bit. I used this adjustment to move the platen closer in order to get a better type imprint. (note: you have to loosen two screws on each side of the carriage [4 screws] in the next photo before making this adjustment.)
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
If there is enough room (at least 1.2mm), I use micro paracord to replace drawbands. It has no flex or stretch, can have its knot sealed with a little heat, is tested to 100lbs, and is pretty cheap for more than you’ll probably ever need. I have used Atwood micro cord purchased from Amazon for my projects.
via https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1hc2olg/royalite_64_replacement_draw_band/
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
used typewriter refurbing magnate
-
-
munk.org munk.org
- Nov 2024
-
www.usatoday.com www.usatoday.com
-
Bryan Kravitz, who specialized in IBM Selectric repairs. Rhoda wanted to learn, too. Kravitz was happy to teach him."I just put my head down, and learned how to do it," Rhoda said, and he partnered with Kravitz to open Philly Typewriter in 2017.
-
Bill Rhoda, co-owner and lead mechanic at Philly Typewriter.
-
-
caig.com caig.com
-
CaiKleen™ RBR - CAIG by Caig Laboratories, Inc.
via https://reddit.com/user/k1lky/ at How can I cork my platen? And if it's the same than rubber. : r/typewriters
-
-
-
Drycleaning & Restoration
Drycleaning & Restoration We offer premier restoration service for luxury brand products. Our team of skilled technicians have years of experience working with prestigious brands such as Hermès, Goyard, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Berluti, and more. We take pride in our ability to restore your luxury products to their former glory.
We understand the value and sentimental attachment that you have to your luxury items and that these products represent more than just a fashion statement. Our team of experts treat each item with the utmost care, ensuring that every detail is attended to and that the product is returned to you in its original condition.
-
-
www.creare.in www.creare.in
-
hand-painted wallets
Our team of skilled artisans create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your unique style and personality, from custom leather jackets to hand-painted wallets
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Vintage Typewriter Margin Rack Alignment Stop Adjustment by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
-
-
www.clicketyclacktypewriters.com www.clicketyclacktypewriters.com
-
www.stlpr.org www.stlpr.org
-
Rolla typewriter enthusiasts open store for those enchanted by the 'clickety clack' by [[Jonathan Ahl]]
Retired collector turned repair person
-
-
typewriterdatabase.com typewriterdatabase.com
-
www.austintypewriterink.com www.austintypewriterink.com
-
writingball.blogspot.com writingball.blogspot.com
-
If you've been dreaming of plunging into this profession, consider the success of Paul Lundy, who took over Bremerton Office Machine Company from nonagenarian Bob Montgomery; or Antony Valoppi, creator of Portland's Type Space, which combines a traditional typewriter shop with a cultural center; or Trevor Brumfield, a young man in his late twenties who has quickly built Dayton's TB Writers Plus into a busy enterprise.
-
-
www.mohawk-finishing.com www.mohawk-finishing.com
-
https://www.mohawk-finishing.com/products/wood-touch-up-repair/fillers/fil-stik-putty-sticks/
Putty sticks (aka paint sticks) are good for filling in nicks and dings on furniture.
These putty sticks and some crayons are also great for restoring the colored index lines on typewriters as well as other colored metal parts and occasionally on some plastic typewriter keys.
M231-10104 SYY Red<br /> M230-0054 Crimson Rose #SN292<br /> M230-0046 COCONUT, COTTON, BRIE, HEAVY CREAM, SNOWFLAKE <br /> M230-0090 Picket Fence
-
- Oct 2024
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Typewriter Basics: Carriage Locks by [[Sarah Everett]] of [[Just My Typewriter]]
Sarah describes having a common spacebar issue when repairing a typewriter, bending the spacebar down which causes the machine not to work/advance as a result when it's put back into the typewriter shell.
Sarah also shows some type bar benders, but doesn't demonstrate how she (or her father) used them to do the repair.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Royal Strengthen Shift Springs KMM Typewriter by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
I picked this up from a repair manual, but good to see my reading was correct.
Forming the tabs on the shift assembly inwards will increase the tension and responsiveness of the shift assembly on older Royal standard typewriters.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Royal Typewriter Shift Operation Full Motion Visual Aid by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
Shift adjustment points and shift assembly on Royal portable typewriters
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Zippo Lighter Fluid (Naphtha)
While Zippo lighter fluid (Naphtha) is a bit more expensive per ounce than other solvents (mineral spirits, lacquer thinner, et al), it does usually come packaged in a dispensing container that may make it easier to dispense in a directed method into the internals of typewriters for cleaning them out.
The other benefit is that some may have it on hand for general household use without needing to make a separate trip to the hardware store.
via, but not really directly suggested by https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1g9ntnj/lubricant_reccomendations/
-
-
munk.org munk.org
-
The hardest part of typewriter repair is believing you can do it. Everything else is just instructions plus a careful, thoughtful hand.<br /> —Theodore Munk
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Royal KMM KMG Typewriter Feet Spacers Original Smashed Rubber Replaced by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
Squished rubber feet spacers on the Royal standard typewriters can cause interfere with the universal bar and when they do, they'll need replacement.
This is the same sort of interference seen on Olympia SM3s due to their squished/flattened rubber gaskets, though the symptoms are different.
"Phoenix typewriter. Have a Royal day!" <br /> A slightly different sign off from Duane's usual... :)
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
How To Guide- Swapping Type Bars on a Manual Typewriter -Full tips and tricks by [[The HotRod Typewriter Co.]]
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Crash course on typewriter maintenance and repair
A list of resources and references for the budding typewriter repair person. There is a lot here that I've compiled and consumed over the last six months, so don't be overwhelmed. Half the battle is figuring out where to find all these things, so if nothing else, this should shave off a month of reading and researching.
Basic Introductory Material
Get a notebook and be ready to take some notes so you'll remember where you found the random information you're bound to pick up over time and are able to occasionally review it.
Work your way through Sarah Everett's excellent Typewriter 101 videos (at least the first five): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJtHauPh529XYHI5QNj5w9PUdi89pOXsS
Read Richard Polt's book which is a great overview to the general space:<br /> Polt, Richard. The Typewriter Revolution: A Typist’s Companion for the 21st Century. 1st ed. Woodstock, VT: Countryman Press, 2015.
Next watch the documentary California Typewriter. Documentary. Gravitas Pictures, 2016. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5966990/. It has some interesting subtle material hiding within it, but it will give you a good idea of where you're headed off to.
Get a machine (or four) you can practice on. Get a flat head screwdriver and maybe a small adjustable wrench. Buy some mineral spirits and a small headed toothbrush and clean out your first machine. Buy some light sewing machine oil and try oiling it. Search YouTube for videos about how to repair anything that may be wrong with it.
Basic restoration advice: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-restoration.html
On colloquial advice for degreasing, cleaning, and oiling manual typewriters https://boffosocko.com/2024/08/09/on-colloquial-advice-for-degreasing-cleaning-and-oiling-manual-typewriters/
Repair Manuals
Create an account on typewriterdatabase.com which will give you some additional access to catalogs, manuals, and dealer catalogs.
They also have some openly accessible material like:<br /> * https://typewriterdatabase.com/manuals.php
Printed manuals: https://www.lulu.com/search?adult_audience_rating=00&contributor=Ted+Munk&page=1&pageSize=50 PDF manuals: https://sellfy.com/twdb
Ted Munk's website also has a plethora of ephemera that is often useful * https://munk.org/typecast/
Richard Polt's list of service manuals, which also includes some correspondence course typewriter repair classes: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-manuals.html#servicemanuals
Tools
In rough order of increasing complexity:
- Typewriter Tool Kit from the DOLLAR TREE by Just My Typewriter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-7E4fM6gBw
- Some simple basics and where to get them: https://boffosocko.com/2024/08/11/adding-to-my-typewriter-toolset/
- Typewriter tools of the trade: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5bKk93rtxs
- Lucas Dul's Toolset presentation: https://virtualhermans.com/lucas-dul
- Tour of an advanced hobbyist/semi-pro shop: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZjf6InMlgU
Tools can be expensive, so start out small with just a few things and expand as you need them. You'll be amazed at what you can accomplish with a single thin bladed flathead screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, a rag, a bottle of Simple Green cleaning solution, and a bottle of isopropyl alcohol.
Videos
Subscribe to and become acquainted with YouTube channels like the following:
- Duane Jensen's Phoenix Typewriter https://www.youtube.com/@phoenixtypewriter2136
- Gerren Balch's HotRod Typewriter Company https://www.youtube.com/@HotRodTypewriter
- Joe Van Cleave https://www.youtube.com/@Joe_VanCleave
- Sarah Everett's Just My Typewriter https://www.youtube.com/@JustMyTypewriter
While watching a variety of videos is great, as you're doing specific repairs search YouTube and you're likely to find full demos of the repairs you're doing yourself.
I've compiled a playlist of videos for repair of an Olympia SM3 which, while specific to the SM3, is a an excellent outline/overview of how to disassemble a portable typewriter, where many of the adjustment points are as well as an outline of the order to do them in.
If you're not a good typist or don't have experience in the area, try out some of the following short films which will also provide some useful historical perspective:
- Basic Typing: Methods. Vol. MN-1512a. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztyzGit1dTI.
- Basic Typing: Machine Operation. Vol. MN-1512b. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-REJEArnjE.
- Advanced Typing: Shortcuts. Vol. MN-1512c. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUJfCfqgsX0.
- Advanced Typing: Duplicating and Manuscript. Vol. MN-1512d. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ve5JnTUzvo.
- Maintenance Of Office Machines. Vol. MN-1513. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocdxgkxKAKo.
Internships & Apprenticeships
If you have the time and flexibility try arranging an internship or apprenticeship with a local typewriter repair shop. Meet your local repair people even if you can't spend the time on an internship. You'll learn a lot and create relationships with businesses who will more easily swap/supply you with machines they're parting out or access to tools which may otherwise be difficult to source.
Podcasts
- Austin Typewriter Ink https://www.austintypewriterink.com/ati-the-podcast.html
- Charm Type Repair https://charmtypepodcast.podbean.com/
Some useful Bibliography
- Athey, Ralph S. Typewriter Repair Training Course. Tarentum, PA: Typewriter Repair Training, 1957. https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/AtheyTypewriterRepair.pdf.
- Atkinson, Annelise. Typewriter SOS: The DIY Guide to Fixing Common Problems with Typewriters, 2014. https://www.amazon.com/Typewriter-SOS-Fixing-Problems-Typewriters/dp/1520902700/.
- Hausrath, Alfred H., and Eugene L. Dahl. Typewriter Care. Edited by Walter K.M. Slavik. Federal Work Improvement Program United States Civil Service Commission and Government Division, U.S. Treasury Department, 1945. http://archive.org/details/twcare-1945.
- Jones, Clarence LeRoy. The Manual Typewriter Repair Bible. Edited by Theodore Munk. The Typewriter Repair Bible Series, 2017. https://www.lulu.com/shop/ted-munk/the-manual-typewriter-repair-bible/paperback/product-1vgk72jp.html.
- Kasten, R. M. “First Aid for Typewriters.” Popular Science Monthly, May 1941.
- Kravitz, Bryan. Hints for a Happy Typewriter. Bryan Kravitz, 1983. https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/Hints-Happy-TW.pdf.
- Hutchison, Howard. The Typewriter Repair Manual. 1st ed. Blue Ridge Summit, Pa: Tab Books, 1981. https://www.amazon.com/typewriter-repair-manual-Howard-Hutchison/dp/0830600345.
- Munk, Theodore. “The Typewriter Database,” 2012. https://typewriterdatabase.com/.
- Pearce, H. G. Complete Instructions: How to Repair, Rebuild, and Adjust Underwood Typewriters With Handy Reference for Locating Trouble Quickly. Bridgeport, CT: Typewriter Mechanics Publishing Co., 1920. https://johnesimmons.com/Typewriter/Articles/Manualpdf/Underwood_Repair_Manual.pdf.
- Polt, Richard. “The Classic Typewriter Page : All About Typewriters,” 2009. https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/index.html.
- Scadden, David T. Approved Home Study Course in Typewriter Repair and Service. Little Falls, NJ: Typewriter Repair School, 1959. https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/homestudycourse.pdf.
Good luck on your journey!
reply to u/fontinalispluma at https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1gaza5x/learning_typewriter_maintenance_and_repair/
-
-
www.etsy.com www.etsy.com
-
Gerren Balch
https://www.etsy.com/shop/HotRodTypewriterCo
Gerren Balch is the eminence gris behind HotRod Typewriter Company
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Skyriter Shift Repair, Ring & Cylinder Adjustment for Even Quality Print by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
He misspoke about "ring and cylinder" adjustment here. Duane does an on feet and motion adjustment in this video for a Smith-Corona Skyriter.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Manual Vintage Typewriter Main Spring Removal Flush and Re-Lube Draw Band Attached by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
Duane puts a few drops of red oil on the mainspring of typewriters as a lubricant before blowing it out to thin it down.
Here he demonstrates how to re-tension the mainspring of a Smith-Corona typewriter.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Classic Galaxie Typewriter Ribbon Lift Install Arm Adjustment Squeeze Style by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Typewriters 1935 - 1980 Type Alignment / Shift Motion Upper Lower Case Adjustment by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
Duane starts out by showing the two adjustment screws for the upper and lower case motion adjustment on a 5 Series Smith-Corona portable. (This should be the same across several decades of machines and include the 4 and 6 series as well.)
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
typewriterdatabase.com typewriterdatabase.com
-
Hints for a Happy Typewriter<br /> Bryan Kravitz, Nancy Gorrell, 1983<br /> https://typewriterdatabase.com/1983-Hints4HappyTypewriter.index.manual
Some good, basic home care and use from 1983. Home mechanics in 2024 are probably capable of a bit more without the backstop of a typewriter mechanic.
This guide suggest the use of solvents like alcohol or trichloroethane for cleaning type slugs and internals. Note that trichloroethane manufacture and use has diminished significantly since 1996 when it was identified by the Montreal Protocol as a contributor to ozone depletion.
-
-
-
Sanding and polishing the keys on my Smith-Corona Silent Super. A lesson to all, use foil when using PBlaster to clean, not a rag. It still melts plastic when it soaks through the rag…
All the videos on YouTube are generally of mechanics who are covering things up for a quick operation (like cleaning slugs) and not for longer cleans. This can be misleading for those who are doing longer term work where the rags need to withstand more liquid or are sitting for longer.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
The nuts on the ribbon selector and the ribbon reverse on Royal Quiet De Luxes is a 7/32 inch nut.
-
Royal Quiet DeLuxe Typewriter Complete Total Body Removal by [[The HotRod Typewriter Co.]]
Gerren uses a Weaver gunsmith screwdriver set for most of his screwdriver needs. [5:00]
On the newer QDLs two of the screws for removing the rear plate are accessible from the top underneath the carriage instead of all on the rear.
The screws for the front body plate can be loosened and don't need to be fully removed to take the body plate off of the machine.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
When doing type alignment, Duane Jensen was taught to use an old/used ribbon instead of a new, wet/dark ribbon for better performance in testing. New ribbons don't show the differences as well.
He's noticed that ribbon from Around the Office are dreadful.
-
-
www.gmm1.co.uk www.gmm1.co.uk
-
A Mistake of Wrong Fuelling Could Cause Big Damage
This is why diesel in petrol tanks damages the system and the car stops running A mistake of filling the wrong fuel in the tank of your car can prove lethal if you fail to realise it soon. Fuel is used by mechanical parts of a car to produce energy and run it, so damage is mainly done to the engine and its parts. Always pay attention to fuelling and never take it for granted.
The problem of not accepting the mistake also makes the problem gigantic. Whenever you get a hint of committing a mistake after filling the wrong fuel, stop persisting with it. Check the possibility, and try to fix it without any delay. In routine, you do not pay attention and start filling the car tank, but if the car is not yours, then be careful.
Similarly, when you go abroad and do not know about fuel dispenser codes, the possibility of making a mistake increases. It means anything other than routine could lead you to the blunder of the wrong fuel. People in a hurry could do this and keep continuing with the mistake without realising the blunder. Petrol in diesel tank causes erosion of mechanical parts’ surfaces due to high friction.
Solutions are present, but first, avoid this blunder because the cost could be very high and you may need to change the car or its engine. Petrol engine cars make use of fuel differently, so diesel does not suit its mechanism of producing energy. Petrol burns and gives the energy to pull, but diesel does not burn.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Hot Rod Mercury - Repaired ! Royal Typewriter Made in Japan Not Spacing Troubleshoot and Fix. by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
There was a loose assembly underneath the carriage that was preventing the vibrator from working and the carriage from advancing via typing. Tightening it up fixed the issue completely.
Tags
Annotators
URL
-
-
racketmn.com racketmn.com
-
Soderbeck tells us about a recent job that took 40 hours to complete. He ended up charging the customer just $50.
"Well, I already gave him an estimate," he says with a chuckle. "I'm not gonna change that quote, I've been here too long to do that."
It seems like an unwritten rule for typewriter repair shops to go way over on time versus pay to repair a typewriter based on an initial quote.
I've seen at least one other quote like this, but don't think I collected it.
-
"Business went right to nothing, hardly," he remembers. "As soon as that computer hit the price of under $2,000, that was the end of the typewriter business—80% of the business was gone in three years. When I started there was 27 little shops like this in the Twin Cities, and there was 47 before that."
-
Vale Typewriter from Ray Vale, who had helmed the stout brick building since it was constructed in 1957.
-
11-month typewriter repair program
In 1974 there were 11-month typewriter repair programs to train typewriter repair technicians.
Compare this to Philly Typewriter's 4 year internship program: https://hypothes.is/a/LSbZtlboEe-4vtMPIWcTKA
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Typewriter repairman still in business in 2024 by [[Fox 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul]]
Mark Soderbeck started repairing typewriters in 1974. Working at cutting back and retiring soon.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Typewriter Repair Failure by [[Joe Van Cleave]]
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
I just got a 1950 version of this KMG this week in medium rough shape too. (My 7th Royal and my 2nd Standard)
Looks like a Royal KMG with the Henry Dreyfuss glass tombstone keys in Gray Frieze paint. https://typewriterdatabase.com/Royal.KMG.72.bmys
Mine has some minor carriage issues that I'm hoping clear up with some cleaning. Otherwise it may need some tools and internal repair work and/or parts. If yours is generally working, a good cleaning and oiling should get you going: https://boffosocko.com/2024/08/09/on-colloquial-advice-for-degreasing-cleaning-and-oiling-manual-typewriters/
Diagram of parts: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/RoyalKMGdiagram.jpg
Manual of the prior model KMM which preceeded it, so the functionalilty should be almost exactly the same: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/RoyalKMM.pdf (Royal Standard internals were almost exactly the same from the Ten (1909) through the FP/Empress (1966).)
Home Study Course in Typewriter Repair and Service: ca. 1959, published by the Typewriter Repair School in Little Falls, New Jersey. Focuses on the Royal KMM among others: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/homestudycourse.pdf
See also:<br /> - https://typewriterdatabase.com/manuals.php - https://typewriterdatabase.com/1968-Ames_Standard_SVC.royal-repair.manual - https://typewriterdatabase.com/1960-Ames_Gen_Cat_10-March.royal-parts-01.manual
Searching on YouTube for cleaning and repair advice should help out a lot. Phoenix Typewriter has some solid videos on related models (search also the Royal X (ten), KH, KHM, KMM, KMG, HH, FP, and Empress which are all roughly the same internals with slightly different body styles.)
If you need some basic typewriter 101, try: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJtHauPh529XYHI5QNj5w9PUdi89pOXsS
reply to u/MajesticWear5478 https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1g1i440/tips_for_cleaning_and_fixing_a_1949_royal/#lightbox
-
-
-
The Time I Met New York’s Patron Saint of Typewriters by [[Thaisa Frank]] March 12, 2019
-
Stanley Adelman of Osner's Typewriter Repair in New York
(closed in 2001)
-
-
oldbobsoldtypewriters.com oldbobsoldtypewriters.com
-
https://oldbobsoldtypewriters.com/
Scott Drudge is the proprietor<br /> Second generation typewriter repair as his dad Bob was the original namesake of Old Bob's Old Typewriters.
Taking a sabbatical in 2024 and expected back in late 2024.
-
-
oldbobsoldtypewriters.com oldbobsoldtypewriters.com
-
oldbobsoldtypewriters.com oldbobsoldtypewriters.com
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
I’ve currently only fixed the platen and reconnected the space bar. Issue I’m having is the letters are really faint and cut off almost half way through.
Often after you resurface a platen, it slightly changes the configuration of the platen with respect to the typeface. As a result one usually may need to do three adjustments in a specific order to get things to align properly again. These can definitely be done at home with some patience.
Usually the order for tweaking is: * Ring and Cylinder adjustment (distance of platen from typeface; the type shouldn't touch the platen or you'll find you're imprinting on your paper, making holes in the paper and/or ribbon, which isn't good). Sometimes using a simple backing sheet can remedy a bit of this distance problem, especially on platens which have hardened or shrunk slightly over time. * On Feet adjustment (vertical adjustment so that letters are bright and clear and neither top or bottom of characters are too light/faint) Repair shops will often type /// or a variety of characters with longer ascenders/descenders to make sure that the type is clear from top to bottom. * Motion adjustment (the lower and upper case letters are at the same level with respect to each other) The best way to test this is to type a center character like HHHhhhHHH to see if they line up on the bottom (the last three Hs are usually done with the Shift Lock on to make sure that's properly set).
You can search YouTube videos for your model (or related models) and these words which may uncover someone doing a similar repair, so you have a better idea of what you're doing and where to make the adjustments.
Here's Joe Van Cleave describing some of it in one of his early videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0AozF2Jfo0
The general principles for most typewriters are roughly the same with slight variations depending on whether your machine is a segment shift or a carriage shift. You should roughly be able to puzzle out which screws to adjust on your particular model to get the general outcome you want.
Related blogposts: * https://munk.org/typecast/2022/01/23/adjusting-ring-cylinder-on-a-brother-jp-1/<br /> * https://munk.org/typecast/2013/07/30/typewriter-repair-101-adjusting-vertical-typeface-alignment-segmentbasket-shift-typewriters/
You might find a related repair manual for your machine with more detail and diagrams for these adjustments via the Typewriter Database or on Richard Polt's typewriter site.
For those not mechanically inclined you may be better off taking it onto a repair shop for a quick adjustment. https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-repair.html
Reply to u/Acethease at https://www.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1d76ygx/got_a_as_a_gift_corona_3_recentlyish_and_i_need/
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
- Sep 2024
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
#6-40 internal hex are easy to find.
Joe Bellicini indicates that the set screw threading for the platen knobs on the Royal Quiet De Luxe is #6-40.
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
I twist together two lengths of kevlar fishing line that's 0.4mm diameter and rated for 29kg, so combined roughly 0.8mm diameter and ~58kg pull. This is about the sweet spot imo in terms of thickness, slim enough to fit in small routing holes on mainspring housings and thick enough to get a good sized knot when you tie it. It's also pretty close to the thickness of old sinew drawbands I've replaced. The rated strength is definitely overkill but better over than under. In practise a drawband shouldn't experience more than 750g-1,5kg of pull under normal use.
u/Koponewt aka Pelicram's advice for using fishing line to replace drawbands.
-
-
chicagoreader.com chicagoreader.com
-
Typewriter ChicagoHours by appointment1525 Ogden, Unit L, Downers Grove, 630-561-5853typewriterchicago.com/
-
Edmonton’s YEG Typewriters, run by 28-year-old Keith Ferrer, and Tampa Typewriter Co., a repair service run by 19-year-old Jack Armstrong.
-
-
www.gnu.org www.gnu.org
-
A free program allows you to tinker with it to make it do what you want (or cease to do something you dislike). Tinkering with software may sound ridiculous if you are accustomed to proprietary software as a sealed box, but in the Free World it's a common thing to do, and a good way to learn programming. Even the traditional American pastime of tinkering with cars is obstructed because cars now contain nonfree software.
-
-
www.ebay.com www.ebay.com
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
delivery-dan 2 points3 points4 points 6 hours ago (1 child)Mineral spirits with just a touch of transmission fluid. Used to own typewriter repair shop large parts washer with mineral spirits with transfluid strip off case and submerged in fluid ti clean then air blower to dry and reassemble. Wd 40 marvel mystery oil will only be temp fit and become worse over time.
Some advice on cleaning typewriters from someone who previously had a typewriter shop.
Recommendation: mineral spirits with a touch of transmission fluid.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Remington Typewriter Type Alignment Adjust Typebars by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
When adjusting typebar slugs, it's much easier to bring a letter up higher on the page than to bring a letter lower.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Joe Van Cleave hypothesizes that the slightly blurry and/or ghosting letters on typewriters may be the result of the typebar just hitting the typing guide and moving slightly as they do thereby creating issues with the type clarity.
-
- Aug 2024
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona 1C Standard Portable Typewriter, Repaired Adjusted Escapement Trip Balance Bar by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Peter Short just responded: “The gear stays on.”
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
The real problem with this typewriter is the loose nut behind the keyboard—that is me. —Alton Gansky
-
-
-
Some of the Smith-Corona 6 series machines (electrics) came with copper shipping restraints that were meant to be removed by the dealer prior to sale. Sometimes they can be found inside cases and in other instances, inside the typewriter itself.
via: https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1ew971o/need_help_finding_where_this_came_from_more/
See also:<br /> https://imgur.com/a/xbo6SoY<br />
-
-
www.reddit.com www.reddit.com
-
Colloquial repair solutions for hard platens: <br /> - use backing sheet(s) - light sanding and cleaning with organic solvents - Brake Fluid soaking for an hour followed by drying time (see also: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-restoration.html) - Rubber Renue https://mgchemicals.com/products/electronics-maintenance/specialized-cleaners/rubber-renue/ - Methyl salicylate and alcohol mixture - Sanding and/or lathing and resurfacing with heat shrink tubing and/or by bicycle inner tube
Actual repair/restoration/recovery:<br /> - J. J. Short Associates, Inc. https://www.jjshort.com/typewriter-platen-repair.php
see colloquial advice at https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1ewb36f/rubber_renue_to_soften_platens/
-
This has been an ongoing "philosophers stone" in the repair community for a long time. Hard platens are the result of the rubber losing its moisture, there's virtually no way to fix that long term. Brake fluid, rubber renew, even the wintergreen oil trick only temporarily soften platens/feeds. They will absolutely go back to their former state after a time. (1-2 months) You can sand the exterior and clean with organic solvents to restore grip and improve the original platen, but recovery is really the only long term fix. *There's a ton of back and forth about the sanding method, particularly from the old timers being salty about it. But I have seen HUNDREDS of old platens in machines that have absolutely been sanded by repair folks back in the day, so there's definitely value in the process.
Kirk Jackson, Nashville Typewriter via https://old.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1ewb36f/rubber_renue_to_soften_platens/lj24vxx/
-
-
www.nashvilletypewriter.com www.nashvilletypewriter.com
-
munk.org munk.org
-
1938 Corona Zephyr Typewriter Service Adjustment Methods by [[Theodore Munk]]
-
Corona had a part number for the sheet of cardboard you’d use to press down the top row of keys before removing the shell of the Zephyr: Part No. ST1243, and it cost 25 cents.
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
Yanni Giftakis recommends melting crayons into the letter groves of typewriter keytops to replace their missing paint with a heat gun, much the same way D&D players will fill in the groves on their dice.
This is similar to Richard Polt's recommendation "To restore faded paint on keys and scales, try Lacquer-Stik Fill-In Paint."
via https://www.facebook.com/groups/typewritermaintenance/posts/3831371387100282/
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
The case FOR WD-40 use in typewriters by [[Thom Cholowski]] in Antique Typewriter Maintenance Group
Some thorough colloquial and unreferenced, but reasonably scientific advice about the use of WD-40 to clean typewriters, particularly with respect to water displacement.
Once used for cleaning typewriter internals, WD-40 needs to be flushed out with kerosene or naphtha.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
How to find typewriter parts (Buying a Bad Typewriter ep 3) by [[Just My Typewriter]]
-
When you buy a typewriter, you're joining a cult<br /> A messy one, but definitely a friendly one.<br /> —Sarah Everett timestamp 3:10
-
-
buildingdesks.blogspot.com buildingdesks.blogspot.com
-
make the stops from a strip of 0.032" x 1/2" x 12" K & S brass from Ace Hardware
Brass Tab Stops for Remington Noiseless 7 Typewriters by [[David Randall]]
David Randall made some custom tab stops for his typewriter with some thin brass, a hacksaw, and a file.
-
-
www.facebook.com www.facebook.com
-
https://www.facebook.com/groups/721704878218903/posts/2437242443331796/
Knife and Hammer Coat of arms for the Uncertified Typewriter Mechanic
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Typewriter Main Spring Rewound Repaired Replaced by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
Smith Corona Vintage Typewriter 5 Series Draw Band Install Mainspring Connection Wind Tighten by [[Phoenix Typewriter]]
Smith-Corona 5 series drawband and mainstring attachment and tightening.
-
-
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com
-
An update and a tour of my new workshop by [[Retrotype]]
An overview walkthrough of a small semi-professional typewriter repair shop.
-
