Issues with my Olivetti after messing with the margin release

[Blues Writer]

I'm new to typewriters and scored an Olivetti Underwood Praxis 48 at an antique shop. It worked like a charm, but after messing with the Margin Release the return's all funky, it drifts and whirrs before catching

 

[Tortured Poets Department]

I'm new to typewriters and scored an Olivetti Underwood Praxis 48 at an antique shop. It worked like a charm, but after messing with the Margin Release the return's all funky, it drifts and whirrs before catching

Yeah, I'm sure messing with the margin release can really cause problems like that. Just make sure you clean and lubricate the moving parts gently. It's one way to avoid this. Also, try to reset the margins and test the return again?

 

[Blues Writer]

Got it, I'll give the margins a reset and gently clean and lube the parts like you said

 

[thelastONE]

Sounds like it may have thrown off the carriage return mechanism, possibly the tab stops or margin settings got misaligned. You can try resetting both left and right margins and check the tab clear function to make sure nothing's stuck. If the return still drifts or whirs oddly, the escapement or spring may need a light adjustment or cleaning. A little tinkering usually gets it back on track.

 

[phdezra]

Hi @Blues Writer -- Great advice from @thelastONE !

I had the typewriter itch about ten years ago, and geting back into it now. In any event, the Praxis 48 is a solid machine, so this is likely just a case of something getting knocked out of alignment (happens to the best of us when we start poking around - it's like typewriter curiosity fee! ).

A couple of additional things to try: First, with the carriage all the way to the left, gently move it by hand across the full width to feel for any spots where it catches or feels rough - that can help pinpoint where the issue is. Also, check if your margin release button is fully releasing after you press it - sometimes they can stick partially engaged. @thelastONE commented on this.

If the 'whirring', as you stated, happens specifically during the return stroke, try typing a few lines normally first, then use the carriage return lever with steady, confident pressure rather than a quick flick. I find that older mechanisms sometimes just need to "remember" their rhythm.

And here's a weird trick that works for me: try setting your margins to completely different positions (like way left and way right), type a line, then reset them back to where you want them. It's like giving the mechanism a little 'reset stretch.' (Like an iPhone hard reboot?!)

I do not own a Praxis 48, but have read it has a reputation for being reliable (once working), so don't give up! These vintage machines just need a gentle nudge to get back in line.

Ezra