Ghost letters on my typewriter

[alacr0ix]

Been enjoying my typewriter but noticed two issues: the lower text fades, and ghost letters sneak onto the page. I changed the ribbon, but no luck. Could this be platen hardness, or maybe the typebars sticking? Looking for advice before I dive into repairs. I have a 1957 Smith-Corona Silent-Super by the way. Any help is appreciated!

 

[Alan]

Ah, the joys of vintage machines, sometimes they like to keep us guessing. A 1957 platen is likely pretty firm by now, so that could explain the fade. Ghost letters usually mean the typebars need a good scrub. A gentle cleaning and checking platen condition might save you a repair trip.

 

[phdezra]

Also — a silk ribbon helps with sharper imprint (need clean slugs as Alan points out). Plus try to use a backing sheet behind the page you’re typing on. Just a regular piece of paper behind the one you’re on. In fact, I was skimming the Olivetti Studio 44 manual, and they directly say to I use a backing sheet (even in their new typewriter out of the box in 1950s) because it helps extend the life of platen (roller)!!