Smith-Corona typewriter Spellright Dictionary SD700 but cannot get it to work It will come on but then won't type I do not have a book for it?

Answer 1

Not sure if this will help; perhaps you have done it already. In any case, turning the machine on does not necessarily activate the keyboard. Switching the keyboard on is accomplished by a toggle switch on the right hand side of the machine's front. The switch is labeled KB ON/KB OFF. If the switch is set to OFF, start the machine, give the print carrier time to cycle and then switch the keyboard to ON.

If it is already ON, it should at least in theory work normally. These machines are older, however, and occasionally prone to strange behavior. If the switch is ON, switch it to OFF. Then turn off the machine, restart it, let the print carrier cycle, (about 5 to 10 seconds), and then switch the keyboard to ON position.

Another FYI:

On the LEFT front of the machine are two similar looking switches. One alternates between KB1/KB2, which enables you to switch the symbols printed when Caps or Shift is engaged.

The other - this part is important - alternates between TYPE/LINE/MEM. In order to type normally, the machine needs to be set to "TYPE". To pre-compose a line, with error correction through Backspace, and then print once you have finished, set the machine to "LINE". You can observe what you have typed on the small LCD screen in the middle. The line will print every time you hit the "RETURN" key. "MEM" setting gives you the ability to pre-compose a whole document on the screen, sort of like a word processor. You must select one of the file spaces, as the machine can save 8 separate files named 1-8. Files will be saved even if the machine is shut off and will remain until deleted.

The file can be printed when desired by following the prompts on the screen after engaging the switch to "MEM"

If the machine is set to LINE or MEM, it will not immediately print to paper, so make sure it is set to "TYPE", if you want to use it as an ordinary typewriter.

Answer 2

If your Smith-Corona typewriter is not typing, there may be an issue with the ribbon, platen, or typebars. To troubleshoot, try replacing the ribbon, ensuring the platen is properly aligned, and checking if the typebars are moving freely. Unfortunately, without a manual or guide specific to the SD700, you may need to seek assistance from a typewriter repair professional.