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Hey everyone!
I was wondering if anyone had an idea where to look for typewrite parts? I recently found and cleaned up my mother-in-laws old brother portable, but it's missing the N key. I have checked ebay to see if anyone has one listed, but haven't had any luck. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!!
Bryan
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Oh, I was also wondering where I could find a spool for this typewriter? Thanks!!
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Unfortunately, when it comes to parts, usually your best bet is to find another, identical model to scavenge components from.
However, what you need - a spool and a key - can be an easier fix. Most machines work with generic spools, so I'd be inclined to try one of those first to see if it fits (alternatively, you could post a photo of your existing spool and we should be able to determine ahead of time if you need a special spool or not).
With respect to the key, you can either move one from a less used character to the missing slot, or if you're handy with mold making, fabricate a replacement key using one of your existing keys to create the mold.
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I think BROTHER typewriters all use universal spools. Easily found online, or at your handy printing shop. That's where I buy mine, anyway.
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Yeah, I ended up getting a universal replacement after, but unfortunately, one of the sides the spools sit on has a missing turning peg (the metal piece that physically turns the spool) so I have to just use one direction and then manually rewind. Not a big deal. :-)
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Failing getting a replacement spool carrier from a 'scrap' machine, I'm sure that you could drill the carrier (I assume that it is plastic ?) and push a small nail or panel pin into it to create a new peg. You can then cut the nail off to length to resmble the 'good' one on the other spool. I'm sure that the carrier can be taken off the machine with very little dismantling !
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I never thought about that. That's a good idea. The spool holder is metal I think, but still should be able to be repaired in that way.
Thanks!