IBM Selectric typewriter carriage return repair

Both of these Selectrics were having trouble with the carriage return not operating. I found there is a spring which works with a clutch mechanism that was missing on one of them and loose on the other one and this got the return working again.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• IBM
• selectric
• typewriter
• repair
• carrier
• carriage
• return
• clutch
• spring

[baggyklown]

Thank you so much. I've been having that problem with my carriage return. I opened up my machine, and sure enough, I find that spring lying on the bottom of the case.

[retrochad]

@baggyklown That's great, glad I was able to help!

[pcgod8]

Zone1242 already recommended WinRAR for extracting RAR files, I'd like to also suggest 7-Zip. It can read and extract RAR files and since it's freeware, you don't need to worry about spending any money on WinRAR or using the 30 day free trial.

[retrochad]

@pcgod8 I tried a RAR utility for Linux at the workshop and it installed succesfully but couldn't open the files. Then today I did try 7-zip on a Windows 7 laptop at home and it showed there were PDF files in the RAR files but there was still an error. There must be a problem with the files themselves.

[compactc9]

I believe I was the one that mentioned removing the platen. I personally am not very experienced on these, but my boss and other people I know at work are. Any time you get stumped by someone I can find out anything on these. Glad my comment helped!

[gbowne1]

yeah, there's plenty of videos on selectric typewriters on youtube. Ive seen quite a few. my selectric used to be a teletype version. Very huge and heavy.

[MrAAA3330]

These are what I learned to type on in the 80's. I sure don't miss using white out to correct mistakes. lol.

[TheRecordman1949]

Very informative, thanks Chad.

[Mrphatbastard1]

Happy Thanksgiving Chad to you and yours!

Mike-

[maynardcat]

These square style  selectrics are the same type we had in the office. I still have my IBM Selectric, but it is not the large square type like you have or was used in my office, it is smaller with the more smooth curved art deco looking style, I think early 60's It cosmetically looks like new. It did work fine a few years ago, but has been sitting so long it developed problems when I last tried it. . It needs cleaning and oiling again.

[koioo2]

@retrochad we have one old electric type writter to a vendex.stil working ink of the cartridge need be resplced. other one younger much younger think its a ibm to both are working