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Inside the Typewriters.com workshop

How a reconditioned typewriter gets ready to work

Our 21-step process brings careful inspection, cleaning, adjustment, testing, and protective packing together in one workshop routine. Explore each phase to see what our technicians check before a reconditioned machine ships.

What the process covers

A practical check from the inside out

Every machine is different. The process gives technicians a consistent route through cleanliness, mechanical condition, typing performance, installed supplies, and shipping preparation.

  • Clean & inspect

    Disassembly, cleaning, wear review, rubber treatment, and platen work.

  • Renew & adjust

    Model-appropriate component work, lubrication, connector checks, and factory-setting review.

  • Test & verify

    Characters, paper feeding, correction, key action, ribbon movement, and copy performance.

  • Supply & protect

    A new ribbon and correction tape are installed before the typewriter is packed for shipment.

The complete service record

Explore the 21-step workshop process

Choose a phase or move through the full sequence. Each step remains available without JavaScript.

21 steps shown

  1. Thorough cleaning

    The machine is disassembled as appropriate so components can be carefully cleaned.

    Clean & inspect
  2. Condition inspection

    Parts are examined for wear, damage, and issues that may affect dependable operation.

    Clean & inspect
  3. Print-hammer service

    Print-hammer solenoids are serviced and caps are renewed where the model and condition call for it.

    Clean & inspect
  4. Rubber treatment

    Rubber components are treated to help preserve their useful condition and performance.

    Clean & inspect
  5. Platen resurfacing

    The platen is resurfaced as needed to support clear, consistent printing.

    Clean & inspect
  6. Series I gear renewal

    Steel gears are installed in applicable Series I transport motors to improve durability.

    Renew & service
  7. Connector check

    Keyboard and circuit-board connectors are checked for secure connections.

    Renew & service
  8. Battery-box inspection

    The battery box is inspected for corrosion and replaced when its condition requires it.

    Renew & service
  9. Platen-latch examination

    Platen latches are checked for secure operation and steady paper feeding.

    Renew & service
  10. Factory-spec lubrication

    The machine is reassembled with model-appropriate lubrication at designated service points.

    Renew & service
  11. Ground-strap verification

    Ground straps and connections are checked for correct placement and function.

    Renew & service
  12. Adjustment review

    Applicable factory adjustments are checked and corrected where necessary.

    Adjust & test
  13. Character testing

    Every printwheel character is tested repeatedly for consistent output.

    Adjust & test
  14. Mechanical integrity

    Gear movement and tabulation are checked for correct operation.

    Adjust & test
  15. Paper-insert testing

    SAPI paper-insert functionality is checked with the machine covers in place.

    Adjust & test
  16. Keyboard adjustment

    Keyboard angle and key response are checked and adjusted as needed.

    Adjust & test
  17. Ribbon and tape installation

    A new ribbon and correction tape are installed so the machine arrives ready for use.

    Finish & protect
  18. Carbon-copy calibration

    Print-hammer force is adjusted to support multiple copies while retaining correction function.

    Finish & protect
  19. Key-button testing

    Each key is tested for smooth response without unintended repeats.

    Finish & protect
  20. Ribbon-mechanism check

    Ribbon lift height and feed are checked and fine-tuned for consistent movement.

    Finish & protect
  21. Protective packaging

    The finished typewriter is packed with a custom box and foam caps to help protect it in transit.

    Finish & protect

Notes from Wheelwriter customers

The process matters after the box arrives

The original review collage is now presented as readable text cards, with the source artwork available in a focused viewer.

“I was used to using this model of typewriter previously. This model is familiar and easy to use.”
Typewriters.com customerIBM Lexmark Personal Wheelwriter 2
“Very happy with my purchase, would highly recommend Typewriters.com. Product arrived in an acceptable amount of time. Very pleased.”
Jeremy M.IBM Lexmark Wheelwriter 3
“Very favorable—this is my second purchase of this typewriter.”
Jeria S.IBM Lexmark Wheelwriter 3
Review collage featuring IBM Wheelwriter 2 and Wheelwriter 3 customer comments

Original artwork

Wheelwriter customer review collage

Original review collage for IBM Wheelwriter 2 and Wheelwriter 3 models

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