I was rummaging around ony my desk and came across a Parker 45 my mother gave me, that she got in 1981 as a gift. My question is this: it has not been used for about 10 years, and I don't know what to do with it to make sure it works ok. I'm new to fountain pens. Also, is it possible to change the nib on it? From what I remember the nib is rather broad.

To see if it works, you can try filling it. Unscrew the barrel to expose the converter or, if there's no converter, a socket where you can install a converter or a cartridge. You can buy Parker cartridges (but not converters) at Staples or some other big office supply store.

Here's a link to filling instructions:

http://www.richardspens.com/?refp=fillers+cartridge

As for changing nibs, yes, it's easy to do. Finding nibs may not be so easy. There's information on the 45 in my profile page:

http://www.richardspens.com/?refp=45_profile

Once you have the pen filled, try writing with it. If you used a cartridge, it may take some time for the ink to filter down to the nib. If the pen is clogged with dry ink, you can soak the nib section (the front half of the body, less the converter or cartridge) in cool water. Unscrew the nib unit and soak that, too.

Excellent, thankyou very much