What to do when you get a new typewriter (Typewriter 101)

This is all stuff I wish I knew when I first started pokin’ at these critters back in the early eighties when typewriter collecting was essentially unheard of. I was buying typewriters for like $5.00-$25.00 (now they’re in around $100.00 or more so I can’t buy as many). Also, I bought typewriters in batches—When an office cleaned out while switching to computers, I got a lot of identical typewriters at the same time and was able to put together like three out of five. They were usually in pretty good shape and didn’t take too much to knock a few together. Barnyard cases, rusted old antiques—be prepared to raise the dead. Some machines it took just about everything I know about typewriter repair just to get them going. But for me, repairing a set of keys is half the fun. I’ve had this hobby for nigh forty years—started when I was 13, now I’m 53. I could even talk about typewriters forever—as you probably well know if you have been on these online for anytime now. Now I’ll shut up and let you get on with your rat killin’.

I originally bought a typewriter for a photoshoot. But this is quickly becoming an addiction!!

You "STARTED in 2018...". Just under FOUR years ago? WOW! You've become very expert in their operation and care in that short time! Also a wonderful ADVOCATE for these grand old "relics" too! Fantastic.

I really like you're insight into the hobby and passion! A very refreshing introduction to machines many couldn't comprehend are still so current and vibrant. More of this!!

The most comprehensive video on typewriters. Two thumbs up!!!

Purposly bought a cheap broken typewriter on ebay for 15 bucks. When i got it it was completely locked up. Nothing moved. I thought oops i just wasted all that money, but... I unsized everything, cleaned and lubricated key areas. I then adjusted everything, and somehow.... It turned out to be the best typewriter i bought to date and also the cheapest.

A very detailed video for people (me) who always wanted one but never knew how to fix one. Thank you!

Outstanding beginner guide! Thanks for putting this out there.

VERY informative for someone like me that loves old manuals, and plans to fix up a bunch of units that I find for cheap. Thanks!

Thank you for this insight. I’m a screenwriter and want to start typing my scripts with a typewriter. You’re very insightful and love the passion. Will watch more of your videos for tips!

Just saw this video...OK...so some how I missed this one a few months ago when it came out. Your terminology was perfect in this video,with so much great information. For all around information...this is one of your finest! Take great pride in this one,well done. Thanks again for this video.

Awesome intro. overview. The cleaning hints were well-described. Loved the purchasing caveats near the beginning.

So glad I found your channel! I had no idea how to clean my 1956 Smith Corona Sterling. Thanks 👍

I bought a Royal Caravan typewriter a few days ago and am in love with it I've decided to repaint it teal (cause it's definitely a keeper) Your videos have helped me so much in figuring out how to take it apart and not lose my mind ... thank you so much

Loved this!

Super helpful! managed to change mine by following along, thank you!

Thank you for this excellent tutorial!

Great video. I have an Olympia AEG Traveller Deluxe S that I was given as a present in the 80s. I have kept it and used it over the years for job applications but haven't used it for a long time. I started back using it to write some scripts (just for fun) even bought carbon paper. We used them in high school and was trained on some models going back to the 60s. This channel of yours is going to be invaluable about looking after and maintaining my old machine. And I hope to maybe add a more work horse machine at some point. I don't have a lot of room.

The typewriter database also has a bunch of typewriter manuals. (Though I have definitely found typewriters without the manual) the manuals will give a rough date of the typewriter and valuable information about it.

Very good overview on the basics - love it! (: