Type bar actuating mechanism for typewriters comprises a cord connected to each type bar. Each cord is attached to an individual type bar at a position below the pivot axis of the type bar and extends forwardly to a keyboard area, where it is attached to a fixed support. In the keyboard area, each cord extends through a slot in a sleeve-like vertical plunger guide, which is open at the top and which contains a plunger which extends upwardly to a finger piece conventionally arranged in the keyboard section. Between the plunger guide and the type bar the cord extends over a wall having a smooth top over which the cord is freely slidable. When the finger piece is depressed, the plunger pulls the cord over the wall and forces it down inside the sleeve.