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30-1-2023 07:52:59  #1


IBM Selectric Film Ribbons white dust/rot?

Hello guys,

I have several IBM Selectric Film ribbons and some of them seem to have some white dust or rot on them. I have attached the photos. Would it be OK to use these ribbons in this condition, or would it be a problem for the machine or type quality? If so, can I do anything to save these?
https://imgur.com/NuBKrYb
https://imgur.com/75TnnyS

 

 

30-1-2023 13:12:47  #2


Re: IBM Selectric Film Ribbons white dust/rot?

It looks like mold to me, but I could be wrong.  The ribbons might have been stored in a damp basement or shop at some point.  If it is mold, then you run the risk of spreading it into your typewriter.  

 

31-1-2023 01:59:14  #3


Re: IBM Selectric Film Ribbons white dust/rot?

OregonJim wrote:

It looks like mold to me, but I could be wrong.  The ribbons might have been stored in a damp basement or shop at some point.  If it is mold, then you run the risk of spreading it into your typewriter.  

Yeah, I tried to scrub it but it is persistent, the box of the ribbons show liquid trace, so it should be mold like you say. I bought these really cheap but I guess there is no way to salvage them?

     Thread Starter
 

31-1-2023 12:47:48  #4


Re: IBM Selectric Film Ribbons white dust/rot?

I would not want that white powder to get in the air and breathe it in while I was typing.

 

04-2-2023 21:21:48  #5


Re: IBM Selectric Film Ribbons white dust/rot?

They're trash.  The white is from off-gassing plasticizers and then the stuff crumbles into your machine.  Don't risk it on a Selectric..  

 

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