Restoring/lubricating a keyboard

[csoren]

EDIT: Added picture of the board

 

I got my first 99/4a and I'm doing some simple repairs (defective RAM) and trying to restore the keyboard. I don't know what to expect from the 99/4a but the keyboard feels a little ... just worn or old. Definitely nowhere near as pleasant to use as my other vintage computers. I doubt it's supposed to feel like this. I don't know which type it is, but I've attached a picture.

 

The problem I'm having is I have to generally hit the keys right in the center, if I don't there's lots of friction because the stalks are so long, so they bend, binding against the sides of the bottom of the key.

 

Is there a recommended way to remedy this? Is it a known problem? I've tried contact cleaner and it does seem to improve it, but doesn't remove the friction completely. I've contemplated simply giving it a good wash. Any and all ideas welcome.

Edited June 15, 2020 by csoren

[+arcadeshopper]

Ok now I see the back picture.. anyway you can clean the switches with a cleaner with Teflon for keyboards.. or deoxit

[csoren]

5 minutes ago, arcadeshopper said:

What's the back look like? Did you look at the FAQ pinned post section about keyboard issues?

I've added a picture of the board to the post.

 

I did look at the FAQ but it doesn't seem to cover my issue. That's also where I got the idea to try contact cleaner, even though the keys don't appear corroded. They work fine, other than the friction.

Edited June 15, 2020 by csoren

[+arcadeshopper]

I've added a picture of the board to the post.
 
I did look at the FAQ but it doesn't seem to cover my issue. That's also where I got the idea to try contact cleaner, even though the keys don't appear corroded. They work fine, other than the friction.

See above I noted your picture and edited

Sent from my LM-G820 using Tapatalk

[csoren]

1 hour ago, arcadeshopper said:

Ok now I see the back picture.. anyway you can clean the switches with a cleaner with Teflon for keyboards.. or deoxit

Thanks, this gave me a few ideas for things to search for ... and a rabbit hole of keyboard lubes, tests and opinions appeared. Well, I have definitely found a few things to try