My Smith-Corona Automatic 10 typewriter stopped typing. When I click on the keys, it doesn't make a noise or even try to type anything. How do I repair it?
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Is this a new machine to you?
Have you been using it lately before this happened?
These are critical questions because we have no idea if the machine has ever worked for you or if you were using it and suddenly this happened... and answers could make a difference in what your problem may be.
Be sure to check all cords to make sure they have have come loose and it's best to unplug the machine, count to 10 slowly and then plug machine back into wall socket. Sometimes electrical things have to be reset.
If that doesn't start your machine then you may have to find a vintage repair shop unless you are skilled at taking things like this apart to locate a problem.
Repairs are not cheap but your machine may need a good cleaning as dirt, dust and junk do get inside these machines.
You can always try using canned air (like the kind used to clean computers). Be sure the machine is unplugged and spray the keys and inside the machine. As far as I can remember when I used similar machines, you should be able to spray everywhere without harming the machine. After spraying, wait overnight before plugging it back in.
If none of this works you may have to locate a repair shop - Google vintage manual/electric typewriter repair shop with your zip code to see what is in your area. Try calling any shop and ask if they service your machine and approximate cost to clean.
You can always join some of the typewriter forums to see if anyone can offer suggestions for you to try.
www.reddit.com/
typewriter.boardhost.com/
forum.allaboutcircuits.com/
clevneuvesea.gotdns.ch/
www.reddit.com/
Thank you so much! I just was given this typewriter by a friend, this is my first time ever using one. I opened it up and there is a ribbon, as you should be able to see in the second image. I tried unplugging it, again... I'm not very knowledgeable about these things. I am wanting to use it for my poetry but just can't get it to function:/ I will definitely try finding a vintage shop and see how much that will be. Very helpful, I really appreciate it!!
There are several Youtube videos, and this is one of them m.youtube.com/
The carriage could be loose ,making it rattle and shake. Sometimes giving it a adjustment could help (tightening) .
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