20 Most Recent IBM Wheelwriter 1000 By Lexmark Electric Typewriter - Page 6 Questions & Answers

[Been in storage that long. The batteries are probably badly corroded , remove them. I is on flip the switch off and on a few times then leave it in the on position it may be gummy and come on after a while. DickyO

I would try oiling the rails that the carriage rides on. Use a light oil like sewing machine oil and place a few drops on both silver rails and see if that helps.

Rico, You have to be a little more specific on your problem. First, what type or model of IBM typewriter is it? Second, which key won't function. The answers you provide will help in resolving your issues.

Which model typewriter?

Your keylever is probably sticking and may need flushing, lubing adjusting, or even replacement.

Your lang light is probably turned on. Hold down the control button (left of the spacebar) and then hit the letter "L". This should turn off the feature.

It is probably the print solenoid that has a broken cap. I have seen a few advertisers that sell the repair kit with instructions. It is fairly simple to repair.

You could have a broken element (type ball). You could also have a broken or out of adjustment rotate or tilt tape. Those are the two wire bands that control the rotation and tilt of the element.

Does anything else work? It is possible your right margin is set to close to the left margin. Try tabbing all the way to the right, set the right margin, hit the return and then hit the tab. If it beeps and goes all the way to the right, try setting some tab stops and retry the test.

It is probably the print solenoid that has a broken cap. I have seen a few advertisers that sell the repair kit with instructions. It is fairly simple to repair.

Is your platen snapped down all the way? Can you look at the ribbon and see where the letters are striking the ribbon?

Your batteries are probably bad. If this going on for a while the holder will be corroded be sure all the contacts are clean. DickyO

motor bushings may be gummed up or belt may be broken

Your Selectric II (a wonderful machine) is in need of cleaning and adjustment. When I did this, I got $65.00 for the service ... that was years ago. I don't know anyone who does this work any longer though a search on Google may get you results for a shop in your area. There may be a FixYa.com advertiser who can help you. Look at the ads around this answer (that is what pays the bills, after all).

Thanks for your question @ FixYa.com

try resetting the right margin

At most paper and offcie supply stores or online which may be cheaper