I just got a Smith-Corona Electra 120. So the half space works, but none of the keys will move to type. The plug works and everything, but none of the other keys will work. I was wondering how to fix this as I would like to use it.
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Smith-Corona Electra 120 was made for several years so you might want to try and find what year your particular typewriter was made. You can check on Google:
www.google.com/
It sounds like your typewriter probably needs a good cleaning.
If you are not familiar with working on a vintage typewriter it will probably be best to go to one or more of the typewriter forums and ask for help. The members on these forums know how to explain a solution for even 'newbies' so just ask your questions.
Here are some general notes on repairs:
www.vintagetypewritershoppe.com/
www.thriftyfun.com/
Here is a free copy of the manual:
This is a copy and paste link to a safe PDF file:
file:///C:/Users/CHRIST~1/AppData/Local/Temp/Smith-CoronaPortablesManual-1.pdf
Smith Corona has been in the typewriter business since 1886. This company was founded by Lyman Cornelius Smith, Wilbert Smith, Hurlbut W. Smith, and Monroe C. Smith and was originally called the Smith Premier Typewriter Company. Then the name was changed. In 1926, L. C. Smith & Bros. merged with the Corona Typewriter Company.
In 1957, Smith Corona produced the world's first portable electric typewrite and ushered in the electric typewriter craze after WWII.
As of August 1st, 2013 Smith Corona no longer sells, services, or supports typewriters in any way.
Here you can read about history of this company: www.smithcorona.com/
The Smith-Corona Electra 120 was produced in the 60s and 70s.
How this typewriter works:
There is a power roll under the keys. When you press a key, it engages the key on power roll, which provides the move of the hammer. Manual typewriter mechanism modified to take the force from the front as opposed to from the top. This mechanism is part of the reason that electrics can't be operated manually, except for space and half space, since these are not printing keys. Also The Electra 120 has a manual carriage return. Thus, electronics are responsible for the printing keys.
First, inspect the typewriter to see if there is anything stuck inside, such as plastic pieces from the broken casing clips, causing the keys to get stuck.
Usually, when several printing keys do not work, the cause may be: poor contact due to dirt; tape bars (strikers) of the keys are bent incorrect; clevis fasteners are broken. But since all printing keys do not work on your typewriter, then most likely the reason is different.
Check if the motor is running.
If the motor is running, then most likely the drive belt is broken. Check it.
If it has a daisy wheel, it may need to be reset.
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