Typewriter Repair Tools

For those of us who love restoring typewriters—whether professionally or as passionate hobbyists—there's one truth we all come to realise: the real magic isn’t just in the machines, it’s in the tools used to bring them back to life.

Back in the heyday of typewriters, each manufacturer had their own sets of tools—precision-made implements designed specifically for their machines. These tools weren’t sold in shops. They were issued to factory technicians and authorised repairmen working in storefront service departments. As the typewriter industry declined, so too did the supply of these specialist tools.

Today, finding original typewriter repair tools is like panning for gold. Most are no longer in production, and the few that surface are often scattered across estate sales, private collections, or buried in boxes in forgotten workshops. The tools that do still exist are often worn, mismatched, or incomplete. It takes serious digging and industry knowledge to identify and verify authentic, useful pieces.

At Mr & Mrs Vintage Typewriters, we’ve spent years tracking down and restoring not just machines—but also collecting the tools that keep them running. From keyring extractors to typebar benders, platen pullers to alignment gauges, we’ve managed to collect and refurbish original tools from major brands like Olympia, Smith-Corona, Remington, Adler, and more.

 

Type

Typewriter repair tools & pliers you might have include: 

  • Key Ring Pliers – Often used for adjusting linkages and tight loops without distortion.

  • Type Alignment Tool – Aligns type slugs for accurate striking and even print.

  • Typebar Bender – A specialty tool for adjusting the curve and position of typebars.

  • Type Slug Cleaner – Usually a stiff brush or tool to clean ink and debris from type slugs.

  • Spring Hook Tool – For removing and reattaching small tension springs.

  • Nineprong Pliers : Bending and Straightening key kevers. 
  • Typebar bender – adjust typebar curvature to clear neighboring bars.
  • Side‑aligning pliers – offset typebars for lateral alignment
  • Wire Cutting pliers - 
  • Mauling Plier - 
  • Three prong pliers - 
  • Ball Penning pliers. 

and many More. 

We’ve recently listed a selection of these rare tools on our eBay store, making them available to fellow restorers and collectors around the world. Whether you're servicing your first machine or running a full workshop, these tools can make your work far more precise—and a lot more satisfying.

💡 Want a better deal on several items? We’re always happy to invoice you directly via our website. Just let us know which tool you’re interested in, and we’ll offer at least 10% off the eBay price—no fees, no fuss.