197X Scheidegger (Adler) Typomatic TMS #4463316
Status: My Collection
Hunter: Rob Bowker (typewriterheaven)
Created: 11-11-2017 at 10:52AM
Last Edit: 11-11-2017 at 10:52AM
Description:
Another foundling. This one from a neighbour whose mother had died and mentioned it at a party.
The machine hadn't been used in many years. The ribbon select was disconnected and the vibrator wasn't falling as it should. Also, most of the type bars were sticking and a few fouling the typing point.
After a moment's head scratching, trying to discover how to remove the mask, I remembered another collector saying how easily the carriage is removed. Two obvious looking screws were loosened and the assembly gingerly wiggled. Screws turned all the way out and a deep breath saw the carriage lift straight away without snag or any hindrance. Amazing!
Half an hour sluicing the segment with drops of white spirit and with some gentle persuasion to a few bent bars and the action was restored. In changing the ribbon, a previous owner must have bent the ribbon guide. After oiling all the pivot points, the vibrator still wasn't falling to its lowest position and further investigation suggested the metal guide itself must be at fault. A quick tweak to move the arms back a little way from the slider and all was right again.
Unfortunately, even the most meticulous service can't overcome the missing right-hand platen knob but I'm sure I'll find a way of bodging a replacement.
Once serviced, this is a great typewriter. Very accurate and with a reasonably quick action for such long throw bars. The plastic is discoloured in places but the key tops cleaned up OK.
Typeface Specimen:
Hunter: Rob Bowker (typewriterheaven)
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Status: Typewriter Hunter
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RESEARCH NOTE: When researching the Scheidegger (Adler) Typomatic TMS on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the Scheidegger (Adler) Serial Number page and the Scheidegger (Adler) Typomatic TMS By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.