I just found what I believe to be a J series Easterbrook. It has a lever fill, but I can't quite figure out how it works. Can anyone help?

Before you even get to the ink, how does the lever feel? If its in the least hard to lift up, the sac is solid as a rock and go no further. You need a new inc sac (No.16 unless its a transitional)

If the lever will pull straight up, and feels like there is a little reistance you may have a good sac. I personaly would replace it unless it is known good. Why chance dumping a load of ink in your pocket. It is something you can do yourself, but you have to use some caution. The section (black part holding the nib) needs to be pulled out. This may be falling out, it may need heat to remove. Do a google search for "section removal fountain pen" and you will learn more.

Once you have a good pen, its as easy as lifting the lever, sticking the whole nib under the ink, and closing the lever. Let it sit in the ink for say 10 seconds and repete once or twice more. When done, remove the pen, wipe the ink off and enjoy!

Thanks! The lever still works and I didn't have any trouble filling it. It wrote perfectly.

J.

I have been using my recently discovered Esterbrook for about two weeks, just about daily. The sac seems good, based upon your description of the feel of the lever, and it writes well and does not require frequent filling, but I was wondering if there was still the possibility of that mishap you describe! Thanks.