I have just started the simplest restoration procedures to get started on restoring my own older pens. With six successful re-sacs, I have run into a problem with a 1939 Sheaffer Senior Streamline Balance. The pressure bar pulled out without whatever holds it in place at the end of the barrel. A flashlight has not helped me see much. I have cleaned the bar and have tried to re-insert it and catch the little hooks on the pressure bar onto whatever is down in the barrel. No luck yet.

I need help knowing what to do next. If there is a trick to getting it re-hooked into the barrel, I am hoping someone will know on the forum.

If I have to remove the other piece still in there, I need suggestions on getting it out without damaging it.

Thanks.
...Lee in AZ

[URL=http://home.comcast.net/~lgschamp/pens/sheafferredrepair.jpg]Photo of pen disassembled.

Hi Lee, That's a nice pen. The Sheaffer Balances, especialy the early ones have a great feel about them when you write. The pressure bar that came out, was it a two piece bar with a slot in one of the pieces? This is important as Sheaffer had a two piece bar that they used for a long time.

The bar was held by a collar that was actually part of the pressure bars. If you can get a bore light you should see the collar inside the barrel. The problem with this type of bar is that the bend that had to be made in the metal was so tight that over time the bar would crack at that point. If this is the type you have you may want to replace it with a standard J-bar. Not as good but will still work. If you find anyone who supplies the original style let me know, I have a few Sheaffer flat tops that have the same problem.

Let us know how you make out.

George.