Caring For Your Zippo
Caring for your Zippo lighter
Zippos have been one of the most popular brand of refillable lighter since the 1930s. In World War II, the Zippo was actually standard issue to all soldiers so they could light their cigarettes or anything else that needed lighting. The ability of these lighters to stand up to the elements was and still is top of the line. If you properly care for your Zippo, it will be something that could last a lifetime.
Fluid
The most common issue people have is when their lighter runs out of fluid. The manufacturer recommends buying their own special brand but really, any lighter fluid should work just fine. Make sure you saturate the cotton filling and slide the lighter back together. Wipe it off really good just to make sure no extra fluid is on the outside of the lighter.
Jams
Every once in a while, you'll realize it's impossible to light your Zippo because the wheel just won't turn. What this is 99 percent of the time is a tiny piece of the flint stuck under it. Get a tiny piece of wire or metal and slide it under the wheel. Most of the time, this will fix it right away but you'll have to put in a replacement flint so it will still light properly.
Keeping the outside looking nice
Depending on the Zippo, it might have some special additions on the outside. If it's a cheap copy, a few drops and whatever design is on the outside may simply bust off. You can usually solder it back on but it won't look very good. It's best to stick with the name brand with these lighters and each one comes with their own set of care instructions. Make sure you follow those instructions as some lighters may need non-abrasive cleaners and such.
Replacement parts
Your Zippo is a very durable piece of equipment but if you use it often, you'll have to replace certain parts. The cotton and flints are what will need to be replaced most of the time. To replace the cotton, you can use official filling or just regular cotton balls. You just pull out the old, and put in the new. Make sure to pack the cotton around the wick so it will distribute the fuel evenly. Flints are easy to replace but have a spring underneath. Make sure to keep this spring or your lighter simply won't work until you locate it or find a new one.