I have a IBM Selectric II typewriter that has been stored for about 18 years. It was working when I stored it. I pulled it and tried to type but it is very stiff. Will only tab but will not return when the return button is pushed. Just a little gear starts running and clicking like crazy. Also, the letters will not type. The selectric ball looks good and it seems as though there is still a lot of oil/grease on it. Any suggestions as to what may be the main problem and how to fix. Could it be the typewriter ribbon holder. The back button won't work either. Could it just be a matter of needed greased/cleaned up. Don't want to spend a fortune on it. Thanks.
2007-02-07 02:06:08 · 4 answers · asked by SusieDarling 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Laptops & Notebooks
We put a heat lamp over the works and it seems a little better but still will not type. It is not making the loud clicking constantly now unless we hit the space bar or return and then it starts up again.
2007-02-07 02:20:41 · update #1
Probably needs a thorough cleaning. A lot of the oil dried out.
2007-02-07 02:15:53 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can't store a Selectric for years and come back expecting it to work. The machine needed to be used, just like a car, and it's eroding away whether you are using it or not. Your unit appears to have multiple problems, and the only saving it is for a technician to go through it, if you can find one. I worked for the division for years, however, when I left them I didn't know just how hard I would slam the give a flip door shut. Either face the music and take it to a typewriter shop, hoping it doesn't need any discontinued parts, or, give up on it and send it where it should be - in file 13. Even if you get it to work it will never be satisfactory unless you begin to use it every day.
2015-07-28 10:50:32 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They are dying the death of parts obsolescence, and not many are in use because not many typewriters are in use. The central pulley hub is plastic and subject to cracking, and that part is not available. Many other parts have been eliminated when Lexmark stopped production on all parts. The only hope left for them is using aftermarket parts from a company such as Coleman Manufacturing, and I'm not even sure they are still making a few parts for them. If you have one that works you are living on borrowed time because the machine must be used, and regularly lubricated, as well as periodic adjustments resulting from regular use. They are just too old to be considered viable in any business today.
2016-05-24 02:52:25 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not sure these links will help, but it certainly provides some detailed info.
2007-02-07 02:21:45 · answer #4 · answered by mrresearchman 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋