Next trial fitting of the revised 3D cartridge will be this afternoon. Once we are satisfied I’ll get a quote on a batch from Xometry for SLS printing

Remember this will be a kit of 3D parts. I’ll also try to identify a source of cheap ribbons. Do it yourself assembly.

Also remember that you can re-ink the ribbon using oil-based stamp pad ink. Here’s experienced advice from Ron K3TZJ -

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To reink, after popping off the lid, take a small art type paint brush and gently brush ink on the coiled top edge only. Not too much, just the top exposed edge. Do it twice. Put the top back on and let it sit for a day as the ink will soak down the ribbon. DO NOT use water based stamp pad ink. It dries out fast and makes a mess. I know!!! Use oil based ink only.

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Nick England K4NYW
www.navy-radio.com

On Wed, Aug 6, 2025 at 7:20 PM Nick England <navy.radio@gmail.com> wrote:

John brought over his 3D printed cartridge for a test fit today. It looks good but he has to do a some minor editing before we test fit again.

But we were surprised when trying to fit a ribbon - there’s no way to thread a closed loop ribbon through the head! They must have installed the ribbon and then closed the loop. It’s nylon and looks like it was heat sealed.

Maybe we’re missing something and it’s like one of those rope and ring puzzles.
Any thoughts?

John has a source for quantity 3D printing that’ll be $12 or so in quantity 5. Maybe better for a larger buy.

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I made an offer for 16 of the German eBay ribbons and got back a counter-offer that was just 5% below the Buy It Now price. Not very encouraging.

Nick England K4NYW
www.navy-radio.com