How to Oil a Typewriter

Once the workhorse of every office, the typewriter has been almost completely replaced by the computer. Many manual models have become highly collectible, but with the industry that once maintained and repaired such machines virtually extinct, owners must learn to do the work for themselves. Regular oiling is essential to keep a typewriter running smoothly and prevent metal parts from rusting, but excessive or incorrectly applied lubrication can prevent a machine from functioning properly. Used correctly, oil can help keep any machine in full working order for many years to come.

Remove any visible dust from typewriter using a brush, suitable vacuum cleaner attachment or a can of compressed air to blow it away. This will prevent the dust from sticking to the oil and gumming up the works.

Press the space bar until the carriage moves all the way to the left. Use the brush to clean the carriage rails, then use the carriage return lever to move the carriage all the way to the right and clean the rails on that side. Add a thin smear of oil to each end of the carriage track. As the carriage moves back and forth, this oil will work its way across the entire length of the mechanism.

Add a drop of oil to the joint between the "Shift" and the "Shift Lock" keys. Depress and release the "Shift Lock" key several times to help work the oil into the mechanism. If it is visible, you can also lubricate the joint on the ribbon selector lever to ensure that it can always move freely.

Remove the ribbon from the typewriter and place it to one side. Carefully lubricate the moving parts of the ribbon mechanism, paying particular attention to the reversing arms that switch the ribbon direction when it reaches the end of the spool. Replace the ribbon.

Tip the typewriter upwards from the front until it is resting on its back and the underside is exposed. Brush away any loose debris, then add a small amount of oil to any exposed nuts or linkages in the mechanism. Return the typewriter to its usual position.