My New Esterbrook Leaks -- Heeelllppp!

[ebennet]

You guys were so helpful as I was in the process of acquiring my first couple of vintage esterbrooks. They arrived in the mail yesterday, and the red on (the one I had actually really wanted) leaks a bit. I filled it and basically little drip-drops of ink periodically will flick out and stain the paper, etc. What do I need to do to fix this. Otherwise, pen seems in good working order.

[ac12]

Depends on the leak,

- it could be a sac with a pin hole. If so, you need to have the sac replaced. If it is this item it is NOT in good working order.

- the nib assembly may be loose and needs to be screwed in further to seat

- the ink could be too wet/fluid. My Esterbrooks are wet pens, and do not like WET inks. What ink are you using?

Edited November 17, 2015 by ac12

[tmenyc]

If that sac hasn't been changed in forever, that's my bet.

 

Tim

[Sasha Royale]

Rinse the Esterbrook in a few ounces of water. This will stain the water for visibility. Operate the lever to expel all ink and water. Now, immerse the nib fully, and raise the lever to the upright angle. With the nib still fully immersed, let the lever "snap" down. Without raising the nib, repeat four times, for a total of five cycles. Bring out the nib and slowly eject all the colored water.

 

Do you have ten drops, or four drops ? Ten , or more, drops indicates a full sac. Four drops indicates that the sac is sucking air from somewhere.

Edited November 18, 2015 by Sasha Royale

[69Boss302]

Or, the threaded part on the nib itself could be cracked. Fortunately, a new replacement nib is an easy fix for that as there really isn't an easier solution. I put one back in to rotation the other day because it was abandoned by the previous owner. The problem was it leaked and it was the threaded nib collar.

Edited November 18, 2015 by 69Boss302

[ebennet]

Thanks, all. I appreciate your expertise.

[ebennet]

What ink are you using?

 

I was using Sheaffer red ink

[OcalaFlGuy]

Man, I would have worn out a "Like Post" button on this thread.

 

Bruce in Ocala, Fl

[ebennet]

Man, I would have worn out a "Like Post" button on this thread.

 

Thanks...I think

[ac12]

 

 

I was using Sheaffer red ink

 

 

Sheaffer red should be fine.

I've used Sheaffer blue and turquoise in my Esterbrooks.

 

Quick check, pinch the nib with your finger and turn it clock-wise into the section. Easy to a snug fit, not TIGHT or you create another problem. If the nib moves, that was likely the cause of the leak.

Edited November 25, 2015 by ac12