Stupid question but I don't want to break it--does the nib section simply unscrew from the barrel to expose the sac?

Yes, this is my first Esterbrook and I don't want to break it.

I did put a bit of torque on it but it did not twist....Thank you...Rick

The section is friction-fitted into the barrel. On my site you will find instructions for changing a sac, illustrated by an SJ.

Much appreciated!

Just some hints from a fellow beginner who has just re-sacced a few Esterbrooks...

I find a rocking motion works best - I gently pull the section away from the barrel on one edge - almost as if I'm trying to bend the pen, holding the barrel in one hand and the section between thumb and index finger of the other. It should make a tiny squeaking noise and move a tiny bit. Then rotate it 90 degrees or so and repeat. After a few of those it should loosen a bit, and you can gently nudge it back and forth while pulling it out.

(Richard has a better description of this technique and a picture on his site at the link above.)

Keep the nib screwed in while you do this - I've read about people crushing sections with too much force when there's nothing inside them.

If my fingers slip, I use a bit of foam rubber sheet (the bottom of my mousepad, actually) to grip the section.

This has worked on six Estie Js and SJs so far - I haven't had to use pliers yet. Your mileage may vary of course...

Just a caution: note Richard's admonition not to rock the section too much, or when it has been moved out somewhat. The leverage you have tending to crack the barrel increases dramatically as the section is pulled out.

I'd recommend reverting to a twisting and pulling motion as soon as possible to avoid cracking the barrel; in particular this applies to pens that have less robust barrels than the relatively strong Esties.

Good luck with your restoration.

Regards,

Gerry