DIY Guide: Replace Key Switch Foam for Apple Lisa Classic Mac

– Flip that keyboard over and carefully take out the 5 screws we’ve pointed out for you. Photo credit: deskthority.net

– Flip that keyboard over and take out the four screws we’ve pointed out for you. You’re doing great! Photo credit: deskthority.net

– Unscrew the ground screw and set it aside. Photo credit: deskthority.net

– Remove all the pesky foam pads that have seen better days. Photo credit: deskthority.net

– Give the keyboard a little break and set it aside for now.

– Find yourself a nice, flat surface to work on. Snip off a piece of the metallic film—just the right size for the number of pads you want to whip up!

– The metalized film has two sides: one is plastic and the other is metal. Look for the metal side! You’ll notice that the metal side has some subtle streaks, while the plastic side is all clean and smooth. Keep an eye out for those details!

– Place the plastic side of the film down on a clean, flat surface. Give the metal side a gentle misting of gorilla adhesive and take a breather for about 30 seconds before moving on to the next step.

– Snip off a piece of that vinyl weather strip and place the non-sticky side down on the metallic side of the metalized film. You’re doing great!

– Once you’ve given the adhesive a few moments to set, peel off the sticker backing from the foam strip. You’re almost there!

– Set the foam down with the film side facing up, resting it on a flat surface. Grab your 7/16 punch and place it right on the film. Now, give it a solid whack with your rubber mallet. Easy peasy! Photo credit: lisa.sunder.net

– Once you’ve punched out the right number of pads, gently peel them off the foam strip. Grab some scissors and tidy up any rough edges on your newly created pads for a smooth finish.

– Stick that new foam pad on the underside of the key mechanism. Make sure the sticky side sticks to the key mechanism and that plastic side of the metal film points toward the circuit board when you reassemble. Got questions? Don’t worry, schedule a repair. Photo credit: deskthority.net

– Put the keyboard back together. Make sure all the foam pads work smoothly. If they don’t, ensure they’re wrinkle-free and just the right size.