Repairing an old and battered 122 key IBM Model M

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maxmalkav
dye hard

30 Jan 2013, 17:06

A couple of months ago I bought a very cheap 122 IBM Model M, keys in good shape but the shell was in very bad state (yellowed and badly scratched).

My plan is to use a teensy to connect it to a new PC, use a Unicomp black key set (on its way!) and paint the shell.

I need advise about how to fill the deep scratches in this shell and after that, how to paint it later: is it needed some sandpapering? which is the best kind of paint?

I was thinking to use something like Plasti Dip (I saw some pictures on GH about users using it with their CM QFR with nice results).

Thanks in advance!

User avatar
RC-1140

30 Jan 2013, 17:11

Well, I don't know about deep scratches. I repaired the case of an old Model M 122-Key using Epoxy though, but that was only for the one big crack in the case.

And Soarer's firmware works like a charm for connecting old Terminal Boards to USB.

User avatar
maxmalkav
dye hard

30 Jan 2013, 17:16

Thanks for the advice RC-1140, any name you can drop it's useful, that way I have something to start my "research" :)

I have been also checking this thread:
http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/bes ... t3543.html

User avatar
fohat
Elder Messenger

31 Jan 2013, 18:18

I used epoxy (JB Weld, if you are in the US, from an auto parts store) and it worked pretty well, although one repair did let go. You can embed a piece of wire in the gob of epoxy on the back side for reinforcement.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=377 ... #msg722184

User avatar
maxmalkav
dye hard

31 Jan 2013, 18:32

fohat, thank you very much for your reply here (and also in GH, I remember well when you replied me about which kind of paint you used on your IBM ;) ) Your work-log is going to prove being very valuable for my small project :D

User avatar
snoopy

01 Feb 2013, 20:15

I'm also interested in painting an IBM case... and maybe making some scratches invisible.
@fohat: Can you describe your experience with the painted case? I assume you use it daily? If so, does the paint still look good (especially the areas that come in contact with your hands)?

User avatar
Mrinterface

01 Feb 2013, 20:19

RC-1140 wrote: And Soarer's firmware works like a charm for connecting old Terminal Boards to USB.
And it's easy too! :
http://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/mrin ... t4987.html

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