Cleaning & oiling
For a manual portable: remove built-up dirt, apply a little oil where the mechanism needs it, make minor adjustments and type a test page. Replacement parts are extra.
$125–$195
At the repair desk
Small repairs.
Legible prices.
These are typical prices for manual portable typewriters. Large desktop machines and unusual parts get a separate estimate.
Repairs & rates
A $25 bench assessment is credited toward approved repairs. If you decline the repair, the assessment is the only shop charge; mail-in shipping is separate.
Ribbon fitting
A fresh compatible ribbon and fitting. We check spool size and ribbon travel; unusual spools or missing hardware are quoted separately.
$18–$32
Platen replacement
Replace or arrange recovering of the rubber roller that holds the paper. Includes removal and refitting; availability depends on the machine.
$95–$165
Rubber feet
A compatible set fitted to the machine, where available. We check fit before ordering.
$25–$45
Stuck keys
Free and adjust a small number of sticking keys. If the machine needs a full cleaning instead, we explain that and quote one job rather than add both prices.
$45–$85
Give the work a little time
When will it be ready?
Cleaning: 2–3 weeks
Count from approval of the estimate. We clean, adjust and type a test page. A ribbon-only fitting is usually 2–3 business days after the correct ribbon is on hand.
Parts work: 4–6 weeks
Count from approval, subject to parts availability. We tell you if sourcing a platen or feet will take longer. Mail-in work adds shipping time in both directions.
Before it reaches the bench
Should I oil a stuck key before bringing it in?
Leave it as it is and tell us which key sticks. Oil in the wrong place can hold dirt and make the trouble harder to find. We clean and adjust first, then oil only where the mechanism needs it.
Can every machine be repaired?
We assess the mechanism and parts availability before promising a repair. If a needed part cannot be found, we explain the limit before further work. We work on manual machines; electric models are outside this shop’s scope.
Start a repair request.
Tell us what it does, what it doesn’t, and whether it’s a gift.