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Mac 128k keyboard keys wont push up

MacTopus29

Active member
I have an original macintosh 128k with it’s keyboard but the return key on the keyboard takes a little longer to push back up after pressed. It seems like there is dust or something stuck inside it. How do I fix this?
The hyphen key also does not work at all. How would I fix that?
 

desertrout

Well-known member
My first step would be to try a little lubrication / deoxidation to try and loosen up those switches and restore operation. If you have some Deoxit D5, you could try a light application of that to the stem of the switch (remove the cap first), and work the switch, a lot. Repeat if you think necessary, but don't use too much.

Some people might wince at using WD-40 but I've used it before and it seems to work okay - but a product like Deoxit is formulated specifically for this kind of application (deoxidation, lubrication).

It's possible there is something more that just corrosion preventing the switches from working properly, but these switches can be taken apart and cleaned / repaired - if you're remotely comfortable with a soldering iron and can do fine detail work. Here's what they look like apart: https://deskthority.net/wiki/Alps_SKCC_Tall_Cream
 
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