Replacing A Zippo Flint Wheel

Most any Zippo lighter is an heirloom-quality item

. These lighters endure because of the simplicity of their design. If one were to completely disassemble their lighter, they would find less than ten parts that constitute the entire mechanism. Even though this is the case, there will be occasions when one part or another needs to be replaced. Probably the most challenging part to replace is the flint wheel. The project will require some special tools.

The signs that a flint wheel may need replacement are fairly obvious. In a very old lighter, the abrasive part of the wheel may become worn down enough that sufficient spark is not generated. The wheel may also become loose in its fittings which can cause it to move side to side and make the lighter hard to operate. Age is usually the culprit where these problems are concerned. One must find a replacement flint wheel which is not at all hard.

One may purchase a flint wheel from some tobacconist stores or one may take a flint wheel from another lighter. In the latter case, practice removing the flint wheel from the old lighter before removing it from the one to be repaired. One uses a punch tool to remove the rivet that holds the flint wheel in place. Use gentle taps to remove this part. It should not take a great effort to remove the rivet from the fitting.

After all the parts have dried, one can remove the rivet that holds the flint wheel in place. Again, be very gentle during this process. The rivet should be able to be punched out with little effort. The flint wheel should drop freely from the bracket. Simply place the new flint wheel in the correct position and use the rivet gun to fasten it. Turn the flint wheel a few times to ensure that it moves freely. After this process is completed, reassemble and refill the lighter as one normally would and check for spark.

Zippos do come with lifetime warranties in most cases so it may be advisable to take the lighter to a tech or to send it in before attempting this oneself. The procedure, however, is so easy that anyone should be able to successfully replace the part. One can check online or at lighter stores for flint wheels which are very inexpensive. Remember to always empty the lighter of fluid before doing this. Hitting the rivet may cause a spark or two.

by: Ryder Michaels

POST COMMENT

The Saab 9-3 Plenty Of Flair When Monthly Payments Make You Feel Like Its All Crashing Down Interest Rates Expected To Remain Low Until 2014 Aygestin (norethindrone Acetate) Is A Progestin Used To Treat Endometriosis Minimize Cavities With These Easy Steps Focus On Nice Why The Pit Bull Got Banned What To Look For In A Conference Room Table Concerns When Planning A Special Event Bending The Brass Tube Adventure Experience In Morocco Is Room Divider Screen The Right Resolution For Me? Making Your Own Wind Chime