The Curta.org Bulletin Board

[davhamm]

Hi, on one of my Type 2's if I do a tens test the subtraction works fine, but from 9999.. I add 1 and about 1/2 way through the crank it jambs but if I shake the curta it continues on fine.

Any idea whats wrong? something I could attempt to fix, or send it in for service?

[murff]

It's the tens-carrying mechanism...

I assume that there is some dirt / dust inside / around the mechanism (ten carry lever , ten carry spring, ...).
The Curta should be used regularly like a watch - otherwise the fine mechanism begins to stuck... (and with shaking it runs temporary)

So first of all try to clean it... if nothing is brocken (e.g. a spring) then it schould running smoothly afterthere.
_________________
:: m u r f f
:: curta.li

[davhamm]

"Try cleaning it " This worries me. I hear all about needing jigs and things to put it back together. How far apart can I go before, I have gone to far? Any video's or step by step pics?

[murff]

no risc no fun



but serious...
here is a step by step disassembly:
http://www.vcalc.net/disassy/

You have to go until step 14 (..."Now you can see the entire ten carry mechanism")



And you need some fitting tools - especial for the small circlip.

But - if you're not sure... don't touch it...
_________________
:: m u r f f
:: curta.li

[davhamm]

Thanks,
Found another site with a bit more detailed step by step. But the pics are not as good http://home.teleport.com/~gregsa/curta/disas/index.htm

Shipping to Italy seems expensive or risky. Not sure which way I am going to go. Just won a type 1 in the 10000 range, not many pics and as I guessed it's in rough shape so it needs to go in for a deep cleaning. Need to contact seller and see what they want to do (sold as in excellent shape). May just send both off to Italy.

[davhamm]

Suppose to be getting a few hundred back on the type 1. Was hoping to ship both units off to Italy Monday but wont ship till I have the money back.