First thing! Peel the orange seal to remove flint
I emphasize the need for this task, to a larger extent than anything else.
Owners of new lighters typically choose not to remove the orange sticker, for purpose of maintaining a mint state of condition. Years later upon looking into the lighter, many find themselves baffled to discover fine grey dusts coating the interiors.
The flint wheels could not turn, and flint tubes obstructed by what used to be flints.
Owners of new lighters typically choose not to remove the orange sticker, for purpose of maintaining a mint state of condition. Years later upon looking into the lighter, many find themselves baffled to discover fine grey dusts coating the interiors.
The flint wheels could not turn, and flint tubes obstructed by what used to be flints.
A lighter's 'flint' is in fact Ferrocerium, this is the same stuff on a ferro rod. This material is manufactured by compressing a cocktail of metallic powders such as Cerium, Magnesium, Iron, Neodymium etc. Abrasion against a steel edge displaces flakes off this material, while friction causes them to heat up thus producing sparks.
Flints left within devises for prolonged periods, are often found to deteriorate into cement like forms.
* Side effects from oxidations
This is the trouble
A deteriorated flint adheres to the flint wheel and blocks the tube. It cannot be easily removed unless measures are taken.
Flints left within devises for prolonged periods, are often found to deteriorate into cement like forms.
* Side effects from oxidations
This is the trouble
A deteriorated flint adheres to the flint wheel and blocks the tube. It cannot be easily removed unless measures are taken.
Once this is out of the way
Without a flint, the flint-spring follower can be mistaken for flint itself. Thus i learnt to sandwich a square of cardboard/paper in between, so that no one shall erroneously light a flint-less lighter.
Dealing with dirt, grime, dusts and elements
Finger prints add onto grimy surfaces, and are unsightly especially on high polished facades. I'm assuming few people will enjoy viewing a piece riddled with marks.
So here is a simple fix:
- You'll need clean and soft Gloves. To avoid another finger print, and for protecting your skin
- A soft cotton/micro-fiber cloth. Spares your treasures from those scratches
- Lighter fluid, Same thing that fuels your lighter. It is a great solvent too
I propose that the lighter insert be removed, so that no liquid remains between the gaps. Moist the cloth with lighter fluid, doing so in a well ventilated area. Gently wipe the facades while holding the lighter casing in gloved hands. Ensure lighter fluid fully evaporates before returning the insert.
Soon as the lighter is cleaned spic & span, i feel eager to put it into a clear plastic sleeve/pouch quick!
These sleeves should measure slightly more than 2 inches by 3 inches. Some may have additional lengths with an adhesive end. Without it, the edges could still be folded and secured with tape.