Parker 51 Vac Leak Question

[Carguy]

I have a recently acquired dove gray 51 Vac that claimed to be restored and it fills fine, so I think its ok. However, after I swapped out the nib, it seems to have developed a slight leak at the clutch ring. I think the collector is a bit looser than it should be - could that be the issue? I dont normally put thread sealant on any of my 51s but wonder if Vacs need that more for some reason?

 

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

[FarmBoy]

You should use something on the hood threads.

[danielfalgerho]

Rosin based sealant works well it's usually a rosin/castor oil concoction. In the old days some folks used Elmer's rubber cement, I think Frank Dubiel mentions it in Da Book (you want the light stuff, Barge cement is too tough) Happy fixing!

[Ron Z]

I tried it, once. Rubber cement is ineffective. I've seen evidence that suggests that Parker used a thread sealant on the 51 hoods. I prefer shellac because it holds the hood in place better, but have also had cases where things were loose enough that thread sealant was necessary.

 

DON'T put anything on the collector, especially shellac!

 

Having said that, take a close look at the connecting threads. I have seen cases where it was cracked, causing a leak.