As a side note- this flaw or issue can crop up on any machine that uses this style of interference drum tab brake, it is a system used on other makes and models
I will say, though, that a design with cork and particular rubber bits (SC escapement) that go hard over time and cause problems isn't necessarily a design flaw if the problem only shows up 20+ years later, especially after the world has stopped using typewriters. "Weakness" might be a better term. I have to imagine, if doable, replacement of these pads with synthetic cork might give a longer life thereafter.
Good to know. Like I said in the video, I don't work on the newer styles as I mainly work in mid century models. Perhaps Olympia realized the flaw and pulled it for the 8. Thanks for the info!
As a side note- this flaw or issue can crop up on any machine that uses this style of interference drum tab brake, it is a system used on other makes and models
Very interesting! Thanks.
It is very impressive that you figured this out. Have you ever tried to make replacements for the cork inserts?
I'm sure you could put new cork in there the pads are just glued in. I personally haven't tried it.
I will say, though, that a design with cork and particular rubber bits (SC escapement) that go hard over time and cause problems isn't necessarily a design flaw if the problem only shows up 20+ years later, especially after the world has stopped using typewriters. "Weakness" might be a better term. I have to imagine, if doable, replacement of these pads with synthetic cork might give a longer life thereafter.
Also...Can't you just hit the spacebar 5 times to tab over? Or just use the carriage release to move around manually?
Sure.
I don't think the SM8 has a tab break so I think this issue only affects the SM7 or maybe the SM9
Good to know. Like I said in the video, I don't work on the newer styles as I mainly work in mid century models. Perhaps Olympia realized the flaw and pulled it for the 8. Thanks for the info!
Is this issue inevitable for any SM7 that is heavily used?
It's not inevitable but it's more common than not in my experience.