Abstract: The free platen has a weight inside to produce inertia against movement by typing, as well as extensible end pieces for extension to correspond to lateral extension of a paper guide. An adjustable end plate at each end of the typewriter frame carries a lower supporting and positioning roller which engages the platen at a point forwardly of the vertical centerline thereof and a rear supporting and positioning roller which is essentially opposite the point of impact of the typing element and engages the platen at a point below its horizontal centerline. The platen has a pair of ring gears having an outer diameter less than the thickness of the elastomer covering the platen between the gears, with a short section of elastomer beyond each ring gear. The ring gears are engaged by a gear of a pivoted indexing device, which gear engages the platen ring gear when the respective indexing device is in down position. The ratcheted indexing device is actuated by conventional levers, arms, etc.