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Repairing an old and battered 122 key IBM Model M
Posted: 30 Jan 2013, 17:06
by maxmalkav
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!
Posted: 30 Jan 2013, 17:11
by RC-1140
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.
Posted: 30 Jan 2013, 17:16
by maxmalkav
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
Posted: 31 Jan 2013, 18:18
by fohat
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
Posted: 31 Jan 2013, 18:32
by maxmalkav
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

Posted: 01 Feb 2013, 20:15
by snoopy
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)?
Posted: 01 Feb 2013, 20:19
by Mrinterface
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