Troubleshooting IBM Selectric III Typewriters

The IBM Selectric III is one of the sturdiest and most reliable typewriters out there, as are its predecessors. But as is the case with any machinery, maintenance and tuning are necessary to ensure a long life and less troublesome experience. If your Selectric isn't working properly, it might be clogged with dust or rust and most likely just needs to be cleaned and lubricated. You can take some steps yourself, but if these don't fix the problem, take your Selectric to a professional repair shop.

Things You'll Need

• Flashlight
• New ribbon
• Very light machinery oil
• Can of compressed air

Instructions

1. Spray the inside of your Selectric with the can of compressed air to clear any dust that may have built up or any debris that may have fallen inside. The foam cushioning on the inside of the typewriter's casing quite often flakes and falls, so even if you have a cover on your Selectric, it is a good idea to do this.

2. Turn on your Selectric III and listen to the motor. There should be only a low hum. Anything more than a low hum, such as a clicking or ticking sound, can suggest a cracked main sprocket or a motor clutch problem. A cracked sprocket means a likely demise for your machine.

3. Replace the typewriter ribbon, if needed, by pushing the gray ribbon release switch to the right of the current ribbon. Remove the current ribbon and put the new ribbon in its place, making sure there is no slack. In order to tighten the ribbon, turn the right ribbon wheel clockwise.

4. Insert a piece of paper and type all keys, shifted and unshifted, in order to assess the state of the keyboard. If the keys are locked and do not move whatsoever, try pressing the "Mar Rel" button and try again. If keys are sticking or coming up slowly, your problem is more than likely a lubrication problem. IBM Selectrics require cleaning and regular lubrication in order to work correctly.

5. Lubricate your machine by using a very light machine oil -- do not use WD-40. Flip up the cover that would allow for changing the ribbon and carefully place the oil, drop by drop, at the bars that are lifted by the keys when typing. Be sure not to overlubricate.

6. Press the Return, Exp, Index and Tab keys to be sure their functions are working correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Never insert your fingers into a running Selectric or wear loose clothes such as ties around one. Be sure that the machine is turned off before lubricating or working on it.

• If your typewriter has been sitting in the attic or garage for 10 to 15 years, you're going to have to take it to an office machines refurbisher or servicer in your area to ensure that it is completely and correctly lubricated.