IBM Model M - new user question

[Rainman]

Hi guys, I just recently got my hands on the IBM model M. I've bought this keyboard a couple of days ago and I have to say, after a thorough clean, it looks fairly new. Anyways, now I've got a question regarding the keys, namely some keys require a bit more push than the others and some even have a bit of a "metaly" sound. It's not a big difference but it can be felt if paying attention to it. Now I'd like to ask all the owners of IBM Model M if that's normal with these keyboards? Could it be the buckling springs need a change or what could be the cause of a slight uneven pressure force and the slight higher-pitched "metaly" sound for the keys? I appreciate the input guys...

[Pacifist]

are they seated correctly?

[brainT]

are they seated correctly?

This.

And you could also pop the case open and see if you're missing any rivets.

[Rainman]

Thanks guys for your quick answer.
Yes, every keystroke is properly recognized... maybe there is a special technique for placing the keycaps on top of the springs?
Tomorrow I'll open the case and inspect for missing rivets... anything specific detail I should look for?

[rowdy]

Also it might need a bolt mod.  If some of the plastic rivets have come off, it could result in an inconsistent feel across the board.  One of my Model M is like that.

[brainT]

Great video on restoring a Model M!

[Hellmark]

You can have a key improperly seated and still have the key presses register.

My rule of thumb, is if the keyboard has been shipped, make sure to pop and reseat each key. The ones I've got, I've had had at least one or two keys knocked a bit out, so it would just feel weird. It is fairly quick and easy.

After that, make sure to check the rivets. If you have a bunch that have broken free (which can be common, they're just plastic), then you'll want to do a bolt mod. If it is just a few here or there, then it isn't as big of a deal. Only time I'd consider doing a bolt mod if a few have broke loose, is if they're all right next to each other (uncommon, and usually indicative of some sort of accident).

[Rainman]

Thank you guys for this thoroughfull information. I popped the case open and I saw that all the plastic thignys are intact, the keys are properly seated. I come to think that this is how the model M should actually feel and sound. My model M is from 1993 (with the blue IBM logo). I'll try to upload typing video and post it here so you can here the sound of the keys by yourself. Nevertheless I really enjoy the Model M and I have to say it does need a bit of typing practice before one gets used to the buckling springs (I came from Cherry MX browns). All in all, after you get the hang of it, one really starts to dig that loud clicks.    

[CPTBadAss]

Dorkvader did this experiment last year where he brought like 4 Model Ms around and they all felt different. He didn't bolt mod them or anything. Just because the rivets are intact doesn't mean they're retaining properly and giving you the "Model M feel". I personally judge all Ms off of my bolt modded SSK.

[terrpn]

Dorkvader did this experiment last year where he brought like 4 Model Ms around and they all felt different. He didn't bolt mod them or anything. Just because the rivets are intact doesn't mean they're retaining properly and giving you the "Model M feel". I personally judge all Ms off of my bolt modded SSK.

exactly.......... my other m feels or even sounds nothing in comparison like my bolt modded m.

i did take some thin styrofoam, place behind the plate and even duct taped the inside of the case to help with some of the pinging. it probably at least cut it in half or better, but is still not as tight, responsive, etc. as my bolt mod. all the springs for being as old as they are-- are still very springy

still gotta dental mod, but i have gotten used to it and it doesn't bother me

they are probably my favorite KB.............love it late at night and all the racket the thing makes

[Rainman]

OK, now things got complicated...
Does one have to take the whole keyboard apart to apply that bold mod or is it just enough to remove the plastic rivets with a sharp razor and then drill through?

[fohat.digs]

OK, now things got complicated...
Does one have to take the whole keyboard apart to apply that bold mod or is it just enough to remove the plastic rivets with a sharp razor and then drill through?

Both ways are possible. The second might be more properly called the "screw mod" but you are using machine screws in any case.

Peeling layers apart dramatically increases the time and effort involved in this procedure, but allows you to clean and adjust everything.