ASR-33...

[David V. Corbin]

>>Isn't there a front-back platten adjustment affects print density 
>>(particularly if the platten is too far back).

The platen adjustment for horizontal (located on the right side of the
platen when looking from the front of the machine) is already at its
foremost location.

>>A new ribbon -- is it really NOS?  -- could have dried out in storage

I have tried both "New Original" [actual date unknown, but sealed] as well
as hand winding a current (bought from Staples) calculator ribbon of the
correct width (height?) unto an empty TTY reel. No difference between the
two, although when handling the calculator ribbon it seemed a lot less
"inky" than I remember TTY ribbons to be [though that was 20+ years ago...


>>OK, if it's not those, then I'd check the print hammer carefully, In 
>>particular, you want to check the spring tension, and strip down the 
>>carriage and clean off any gummy lubricant. The hammer has to move freely 
>>to give a good 'wack' to the sylinder. 

Well, it gave my finger a good "wack" when I put my finger where it did not
belong!. I do not have the proper tools to measure tension (or other
forces), but everything seems clean and free...


Stephan: I have some of the original manuals, plus copies from bitsavers.
Having and being able to follow are two different things.....

Randy: Going to check out the link your provided....thanx!