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Hello everyone,
I recently bought a typewriter at a relatively low price and, sure enough, it has some issues with it. I'm planning on taking it to a local repairman, but I wanted to find out what would be a reasonable quotation for fixing the problems below. Could anyone help?
1. vertical alignment issues (letters printed too high when shift key is pressed)
2. keys get stuck when I start a new line
3. getting it generally cleaned up
thank you!
P.S. -- alternatively, if there seem to be an obvious way of fixing it at home, please let me know
Last edited by fumanchu (27-1-2015 14:46:08)
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Well, how much is this thing worth to you for starters? Typewriter repairs can go up to anywhere around $150-$500 depening on how badly it's broken. Your last two problems could easily be fixed with a simple cleaning, and there are plenty of topics here on this forum about cleaning machines. If this typewriter means the world to you, then go see the guy, but be prepared to pay a pretty penny for the service though. If this is just a curiosity, then feel free to clean it using rubbing alcohol and Q-tips. It also boils down to the machine itself. If it is a rare and valuable typewriter, then either take it to someone, or you better know what you're getting yourself into. Damaging an important machine could lead to regret and a fair amount of cursing. Would you mind sharing what typewriter you bought? It would be helpful to know since there are ways to fixing the first of your problems if we know the machine.
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Hi fumanchu, and welcome to the forum.
It's really impossible to start a discussion on repair costs without knowing where you are in the world. Some countries/cities have a higher number of repair facilities than others, which can factor into repair rates. Knowing where you live might also help you get a referral from another member here to a shop that has modest rates and fair practices.
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Hello! Thank you very much for your swift replies.
It's a mint-green Hermes Baby, from the 1950's I think (the ones that can't change ribbon colour). It's in a splendid cosmetic condition on the outside, but looks rather filthy on the inside, which I don't think I could reach without dismantling the whole thing.
I'm still not sure whether I want to keep it or to sell it after fixing it if possible. I'm based in Oxford, UK.
Many thanks again for your help!
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I'd suggest contacting thetypewriterman who is a member here and a typewriter technician located in Luton, which I think isn't too far from you. You can send him a private message if you want by clicking on his name (it's lised in the User List - see the top menu bar). He will able to best advise you and give you relevant information and rates.
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Sure, will do. Thanks!