So far this is my only fountain pen. I got hooked when I started using the disposable versions.

Anyway, on to the problem: The pen doesn’t start easily and when I get it going it seem to dry out/skip shortly there after. When using it at my desk I keep a glass of water handy to keep it going. After doing some web research I have come to the conclusion that it is either the ink (which is some old cartridges that I found in a desk) or the nib (which may be too tight). I am looking into getting a converter for the pen and trying out some different ink (something on the thinner side of the spectrum) and seeing if that solves the problem.

What do you think? Is this the way to go? Any recommendations as to which ink I might try? Or should I have the nib looked at by a professional? I have tried looking at it and it seems ok (the ends ate lined up and such). Another question, what is the shelf life of sealed plastic ink cartridges? I think the ones I have been using are probably around 12 - 15 year old.

Any suggestions are welcome.

Thanks

Journeyman,

I also have a Zoom 980, M nib, and have no problem writing. It indeed writes very smoothly and I consider it as a very dependable and reliable pen.

So far, I have used these inks on it: Mont Blanc Royal Blue, Pilot Black, Pilot Royal Blue. I refill the cartridges with a syringe. My only problem might have been to prime the nib after cleaning or after refilling. Once that is done, I cannot recall any problem.

Click to view attachment

Hope this helps you to gain some trust in that pen. I would try some inks on it to see if the whole operation improves. Good luck.

Iosepus