Atari 800 (Original) plungers and contact switches

[scotty]

So.... I have an Atari 800 with the Hi Tek (white sleeve) keyboard. Space bar is not working. Took it apart to see what the problem was. Turns out the contacts that come together inside the plunger are mangled. They will need to be replaced. Is this an easy operation? Where can I get a plunger and contacts? I know Best Electronics still has the full keyboard, but this is my second computer (sold 400 to buy 800) from the early 80's, and would like to keep it as original as possible. Thanks in advance....

 

[_The Doctor__]

I use needle and micro needle nose pliers to straighten the copper out on each side of the of the white separater

[scotty]

It is too far shot. It is going to need replaced.

[adam242]

I have a junk 800 keyboard that I might be able to salvage a set of contacts and a plunger out of for you...

 

It's been done before, there's a thread here describing the process.