Unicomp Model M space bar issue

[satansfather]

I have a 2021 Unicomp Model M with a newly dysfunctional space bar. The problem started suddenly and is not something that worsened over time. Here are the details I can provide:

• Upon reseating the key, it behaves as if I am holding the space bar until I press another key, after which it does nothing. This makes me assume it's not triggering a release.
• I am able to manually press the spring with a screwdriver and it functions normally.
• Using another key in place of the space bar does not fix the issue.
• Swapping the spring under the space bar for the spring under another key leaves the space bar non-functional while the other key still works.

This rules out an electrical issue but I'm having a hard time understanding what could cause this as nothing appears to be pointing to the problem.

[satansfather]

So I've somewhat fixed the issue. I cut the space bar spring slightly shorter and now it seems to work, although it feels a bit mushy.

I did remove the spring from the Windows key on the right side of the space bar to reserve as a "donor" spring since I only ever hit that key accidentally. I ended up not needing it so I put it back, but now that key doesn't work. When the key is attached though, a lot of letter keys don't work even though it doesn't seem like the Windows key ever registered. On another note, the period key now requires a very deep press to register. I'm not sure how everything else started failing like this or how any of it relates to one another.

I suspect some of the switches underneath are going bad because putting the right Windows key on without a spring can still allow me to register it if I hit it hard enough.

[Mandan]

If you take the spring out, the flipper drops down and is "seen" by the controller as a depressed key.