New guy with a question - clean/lube Alps switches?

[Norm DePlume]

Hi,

I'm a recent convert after snagging a nearly mint, and surprisingly 100% working, IBM M2 on eBay.  Everything about this board is right and I'm pleased with it.

Since there was still a cheapo Dell membrane board on my desk at work, so figured I'd snag a lesser mechanical board for use there.  I ended up with two, a black Dell AT101W (black Alps) and a Focus FK-2001 (fake white Alps) with Windows keys.

The Focus arrived somewhat dirty and had a few very sticky keys.  I disassembled and sent it through the dishwasher with some success - the really annoying keys have loosened up but there are a handful that still stick occasionally.  Likewise there's some variance in force needed to actuate some keys.

The Dell board was dusty but doesn't appear to have been abused.  It's 100% working and doesn't stick at all, but the action feels "gritty" on some keys and the long keys don't feel good when struck off-center.  I haven't disassembled or attempted to clean it.

So, is it reasonable to clean/lube these Alps switches somehow, and should I expect significant improvement?  Or do I just need another M for the office?

Cheers,
Drew

[fohat.digs]

The traditional M sets the bar pretty high. The M2 is already a step down, in my opinion, although it is nice and small.

Personally, I like a good Dell AT101, although they do not age well and the "grittiness" is not likely a problem worth solving. If you find another one cheap, you may be surprised at the difference.

The Focus is good and bad, I don't like the bigass Enter and the whites are a little stiff for my tastes, but it is a nice board and has nice key caps. Submerging Alps switches in water is not a good idea. There is too much to risk with tap water, or even distilled water. Maybe alcohol but I would say no. Membrane keyboards can be dunked all day, but not mechanicals.

If you like buckling springs, stick with them and get another IBM. If you want to move beyond the Model M, get a Model F.

[Norm DePlume]

Thanks for the feedback. 

I did see similar advice and might've been lucky with the Focus, but it's happily fine after the dishwasher treatment.

I ended up buying a proper 1391401 M, so the M2 will come to work with me for now.

Will keep an eye out for another cheap AT101, though.  I think I'd like the non-clicky switches if mine weren't also gritty, and the thing is a tank...