>Does anyone here know how I might restore the quality of mouse balls?

Subject: Mouse Balls

"Memo of the Month," From The Washington Monthly,
January/February ¨1991, page 24:

"This is an actual alert to IBM Field Engineers that went out to all
IBM ¨Branch Offices.  The person who wrote it was very serious.  The rest
of us ¨find it rather funny.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Abstract:  Mouse Balls Available as FRU (Field Replacement Unit)

"Mouse balls are now available as FRU.  Therefore, if a mouse fails to
¨operate or should it perform erratically, it may need a ball replacement.
¨Because of the delicate nature of this procedure, replacement of mouse
¨balls should only be attempted by properly trained personnel.

"Before proceeding, determine the type of mouse balls by examining the
¨underside of the mouse.  Domestic balls will be larger and harder than
¨foreign balls.  Ball removal procedures differ depending upon manufacturer
¨of the mouse.  Foreign balls can be replaced using the pop-off method.
¨Domestic balls are replaced using the twist-off method.  Mouse balls are
¨not usually static sensitive.  However, excessive handling can result in
¨sudden discharge.  Upon completion of ball replacement, the mouse may ¨be
used immediately.

"It is recommended that each replacer have a pair of spare balls for
¨maintaining optimum customer satisfaction, and that any customer missing
¨his balls should suspect local personnel of removing these necessary
items.

"To re-order, specify one of the following:

"P/N 33F8462 - Domestic Mouse Balls"
"P/N 33F8461 - Foreign Mouse Balls"

--- SLMAIL v5.1  (#SLO409KEDG15G098)