Slightly uneven key feel on Model M

[o2dazone]

I have two Model Ms: one is a full size and the other, an SSK. I noticed the full size one has really crisp buckles/tactile feedback, while a few keys on the SSK feel "mushy". I initially thought it was a poorly fitted spring, so I removed it and reseated it with the chopstick method. I can't get the spring to "bite" unless I turn it counter clockwise despite the tutorial saying to spin clockwise to seat it. I've used springs out of my crisp full size M thinking that they were bad springs. But no matter what I try they're still slightly more mushy than my full size.

Is this something a bolt mod would fix? It's somewhat of a big undertaking, and wanted to avoid it unless necessary. Also if I'm opening it up, should I order new springs and hammers from unicomp to throw in there while its open? Thanks!

[slueth]

That chopstick method might not seat the spring in correctly and that is why you get that mush feeling.  To properly install new springs you would need to remove the plastic rivets and do a bolt bod to reassemble. I would also recommend buying new springs and hammers to replace the old ones for a nice, and crisp typing experience.

Warning: Prepare to lose a lot of time doing it, also make sure you have the right tools.

[o2dazone]

Phew, so the chopstick method isn't a gaurantee fix for loose springs huh? I've tried reseating the keys with the most uneven key feel, and it didn't really fix much. I'd hate to take on such a daunting project, but it sounds like I might be out of luck otherwise

[fossala]

I bolt modded mine, took a while but it was enjoyable.

[Krunchy]

Well, a bolt mod definitely gives the whole thing a more solid feel, but unless the mushiness is caused by the plastic studs breaking off and the steel plate separating from the black plastic piece that holds the springs, it wouldn't fix that problem, I wouldn't think.  Are you missing a bunch of the black studs on the steel plate?

[fossala]

Well, a bolt mod definitely gives the whole thing a more solid feel, but unless the mushiness is caused by the plastic studs breaking off and the steel plate separating from the black plastic piece that holds the springs, it wouldn't fix that problem, I wouldn't think.  Are you missing a bunch of the black studs on the steel plate?

No it wouldn't but it would give him access to the springs and hammers to re-seat it properly.

[Krunchy]

No it wouldn't but it would give him access to the springs and hammers to re-seat it properly.

This is true, and I will also agree with you in saying that it was an enjoyable project even if it did take quite a while to finish.

[o2dazone]

I am intrigued by how exciting of a project it is, but I'm still a little nervous tearing it down like that haha.

I'm missing about 10 rivets on the back. I'm not sure if that is really affecting keywear, or if I'm doing a poor job of seating the springs with chopsticks. If I tear it down, I'll probably skip on getting new springs and hammers, only because, compared to my snappier model M, the springs look identical, no crushed/extended coils.

Thanks for all the responses