Fountain pen problems and 11 simple steps to fix them

What to do if the pen doesn't write? Of course, this stationery item is inexpensive, and you can always buy a new one. But sometimes with each new purchase we get another problematic pen - they either don’t write at all or stop leaving marks on the paper after a while.

And many people are concerned about the question of whether they can somehow be revived. So, here you can find out what to do if the pen does not write.

Types of faults

What could be wrong with your pen? There are quite a lot of malfunctions, we list the most common ones:

  1. The new pen writes intermittently, in strokes, and a creak is heard.
  2. The pen doesn't write after it hasn't been used for a while.
  3. The paste has dried out.
  4. The ballpoint pen is missing a ball.
  5. The paste has leaked out of the rod.

In order to determine why the pen does not write and what to do if there is no way to immediately buy a new one, you need to carefully examine it. Most often, the cause of the malfunction is determined fairly quickly, after which it is necessary to decide whether it is possible to somehow revive it and bring it into working condition.

Is the ink deteriorating?

Although ink can deteriorate, this is rare.

. Ink is a solution consisting of water, dyes (or pigments), lubricants, surfactants and biocides. As long as all these parts do their job and are left hanging, chances are what's in the ink will be fine. I have ink from the 1950s that is still usable.

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What to do if the pen does not write

  1. If a ballpoint falls out of a ballpoint pen, it cannot be saved. You won't be able to insert the ball, but you can get the paste dirty from head to toe. Accept the loss.
  2. If the paste of a gel or ballpoint pen has leaked out of the refill, the easiest way is to throw it away, since when cleaning it and subsequent use there is a high chance of staining both yourself and the environment. But if there is no choice, then disassemble the mechanism on sheets of paper and wipe each part with wet wipes. Then assess the level of paste in the rod, blow it out and assemble the handle.
  3. A new pen often writes poorly due to poor ball break-in. This is why a new pen needs to be painted, and in some cases, a little more effort than usual.
  4. If a pen doesn't write after it hasn't been used for a couple of months, it usually means the paste has thickened too much. And if you don’t use it even longer, the paint inside the rod will completely dry out. To solve this problem, experts advise using one of two methods. The first is to heat the metal tip with a lighter to soften the ink. It is not recommended to use it due to the fact that open fire is unsafe. In addition, this way you will most likely just melt the plastic rod. The second way is to hold the rod under hot water. This technique is safer. If it is not possible to use hot water, then you can simply rub the rod in your palms.

How to use a refueling converter

There are several types of converters that differ in their operating methods. Let's look at how the structures work and how to refill them.

Piston rotary converters

The rotary converter is refilled by lowering the pen into the ink and sucking it into the tank using a rotary mechanism.

Piston converters with rod

This type of system resembles a syringe. First, squeeze out the remaining air and liquid from the piston by pressing on the lever. Then we dip the pen into the ink container and pull the piston handle towards ourselves.

Pipette converters

Classic filling system. The ink reservoir is made of rubber, and to fill the ink you need to disconnect the channel from the pen, press on the base of the structure to release excess air, and drop the ink into the can. As soon as you stop squeezing the piston, the desired liquid will flow into the converter.

Built-in piston system

The built-in system has a more complex design, but with it you will not get yourself or your pen dirty. There is a branch from the piston with a small channel. To refill the pen, you need to insert it into the ink container.

Converterless and cartridgeless system

In budget models you can see a simple handle system. It does not have converters or cartridges, and the ink is already filled in the body. Such a mechanism cannot be refilled; ink often leaks out through microcracks in the connections.

A fountain pen

What to do if your fountain pen doesn't write? Typically, inexpensive items suffer from this problem, while exclusive hand-built models are less susceptible to such malfunctions. But occasionally problems arise for them too.

If the new pen writes intermittently and with a slight squeak, this is a break-in problem, exactly the same as with a ballpoint analogue. The pen needs to be painted, and this takes time and patience.

But what to do if the problem does not disappear over time? Most likely, the problem is the factory lubricant that has clogged the feeder channels. Occasionally, tiny metal shavings may end up there. In case of this problem, it is recommended to rinse the pen:

  1. Disassemble the mechanism.
  2. Rinse under running water to remove the ink. Use only cold water, as hot water can deform some parts.
  3. Soak the feather for 1-2 hours in clean water.
  4. Dry the handle. The procedure will take from 12 to 24 hours.
  5. Assemble the mechanism.

Also, washing a fountain pen should be done if it has not been used for a long time and there is a risk that the ink has dried out. If the pen malfunction cannot be resolved by washing, you should contact customer service.

How to remove ink from a pen

cleaning and rinsing a fountain pen
List of forums ElitePen.ru - all about pens -> Repair and maintenance
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AuthorMessage
Serge
Regular Registered: 03/08/2010 Messages: 543
Added: Sun Nov 28, 2010 01:43:42 Message title: cleaning and rinsing a fountain pen
Fountain pen
Writing with a fountain pen is an unforgettable pleasure: you see how the ink flows smoothly onto the paper, leaving different line thicknesses depending on your whimsically changing pressure. However, anyone who appreciates calligraphy must know exactly what his work tool needs to perform optimally. First of all, fountain pens with both steel and gold nib need cleaning, or rather, washing, after four to five refills (changes of cartridges).

To clean a fountain pen, start by running the nib end under the tap. If a lot of dried ink has accumulated, use one of the following solutions.

* A drop of dishwashing detergent in a glass of water. * A small amount of household detergent such as Formula 409 per glass of water. * A small amount (about a teaspoon) of bleach cleaner, such as Clorox Clean-Up, in 180 ml of water. * A cap (about 30 ml) of household ammonia (ammonia) per glass of water.

To clean refillable pens, pour the cleaning solution (see above) into a glass and from there pump it into the pen like ink. Then put it with a pen in water and soak it from two hours to two days - depending on how long the ink was inside. Then rinse the handle by pumping clean water in and out.

To clean a fountain pen that is not too dirty, pump and pump out the cleaning solution two or three times.

Washing cartridge pens is somewhat more difficult, since there is no pump that could be used to pump the cleaning solution. Squeeze the empty ink cartridge to remove air, submerge it in the cleaning solution (see above), and release to draw the liquid inside. Insert the cartridge into the pen and squeeze out the cleaning solution through the nib. Repeat the entire procedure a couple of times.

Here are some more tips for cleaning fountain pens.

*Do not refill them with ink or waterproof ink. They are intended only for nibs that are dipped into an inkwell. * Do not treat the pen with hot water, alcohol or acetone - they may damage some parts of it. * Wash the pen body and cap with cold water. Use a cotton swab to clean the inside of these long cylinders. * Before assembling the pen, dry all its parts. At this stage, cotton wool is useful, which can be stuck anywhere.

to come back to the beginningVsevolod
Visitor

Registered: 11/06/2010 Messages: 141 From: St. Petersburg

Added: Wed 08 Dec 2010 18:25:35 Message title:
Soak for 2 days after every 5 cartridges?
Isn't it too fanatical? In my opinion, if you write with a pen constantly and do not let the ink on the pen dry out, then there is no need for washing at all. Well, maybe once every six months or a year or when changing ink. To wash a pen that uses cartridges, you can use a converter, if you have one, of course.
to come back to the beginningIzniba
Regular

Registered: 09/14/2010 Messages: 1914 From: Moscow

Added: Wed 08 Dec 2010 20:33:28 Message title:
There is no need to wash the pen every 4-5 cartridges. Stupid job. If the ink color changes, then yes. If the pen writes regularly and the ink has not dried out, then simply insert a new cartridge and write. Of course, there is no need to refill the mascara. But waterproof ink is possible if this ink is specially developed by the manufacturer for fountain pens. Many pen manufacturers have waterproof ink. I myself use Mont Blanc waterproof ink. Just wonderful.
The handle with the cartridge system washes perfectly. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. Everything has already been thought up and described on this forum. The pen is washed with a syringe or a converted cartridge and syringe. You can read about it HERE. There are photos towards the middle of the page.

PS No need to create similar topics. There is a topic called “Rinsing the Handle.” There's a lot of information there. _________________ Do what you think is right in your heart. Because you will be criticized anyway. You will be damned if you do it, and damned if you don't. E. Roosevelt.

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Corrector pen

A correction pen is an indispensable attribute of any student. It is found in any office and often helps out when you need to quickly and quietly correct a mistake. But what to do if the corrector pen does not write?

In fact, they dry out quite quickly and also often begin to leak, which complicates the work.

If the new correction pen does not write, then it must be shaken well for several minutes. Then remove any leaking marks on the tip. And you can start working.

If this doesn't work, try pressing harder when correcting mistakes - this will release more of the corrective agent. In cases where the corrector is water-based, when it dries out, you can soak the tip and the pen will work again.

We answer the reader’s question, analyze the reasons, and give advice.

I rarely use a pen. There is a smartphone for notes and reminders. Sometimes you have to sign contracts, postcards, and make some notes. But not that often. It happens that I don’t use it for a month or two. I like gel pens because they write beautifully and richly. But there is a problem - they quickly stop writing. It’s especially disappointing when the pen is brand new and has only been used twice. Why is this happening? What should you pay attention to when purchasing, so as not to end up in such situations again?

Thanks for the questions, Roman. Let's look at them in order.

Pens with disappearing ink are indistinguishable from real ones.

So, what's the catch? Pens with disappearing ink leave exactly the same inscriptions as regular ones. However, literally after two or three minutes the ink begins to slowly lighten. After about ten minutes the inscription will no longer be visible. It is impossible to see it even in ultraviolet light.

Disappearing ink pens allow you to leave secret or confidential writing on documents if you need to remove them soon. In a word, temporary.

But it is worth noting that using such a pen on financial or legal documents is prohibited. This causes a violation of the law.

Why did my almost new gel pen stop writing?

As the name suggests, the core of a gel pen is filled with a viscous substance. It is this thick consistency that we should be grateful for for the beautiful rich and glossy mark on the paper. This property is especially appreciated by artists who create amazing illustrations using gel pens.

For the same reason, the writing substance in the rod quickly runs out. Faster than any other type of pen. Therefore, it is extremely irrational to use them for notes. Also, the gel may dry out if the handle is located close to the heater. Or when it is stored without a cap.

But most modern manufacturers add special substances to the gel that maintain the viscosity of the substance longer. On average, the shelf life of a gel rod is from 2 to 3 years.

Sometimes, with infrequent use, the gel dries out on the ball. And yes, in such cases the pen also stops writing. In such cases, you need to write the pen well. If that doesn't help, wipe the ball with nail polish remover.

And most importantly, never place a gel pen with the writing side facing up. While you are not using it, the contents of the rod will slide down. The pen will stop writing. It can only be thrown away.

These tips will extend the life of any pen that has a ballpoint writing element - gel, rollerball, ballpoint.

How to refill if there is no ink

It is not recommended to use substances other than original ink, but if you urgently need to refill your pen, then use the following materials.

Is it possible to refill with stamp ink?

Refilling your printer with printer ink will be the last thing you do for your pen, since non-fountain pen inks contain glycerin and take a long time to dry. The stamp ink is absorbed deeply into the material, so it will be very difficult to clean the piston in the future.

Also, such ink has a thinner consistency, which can lead to smudges. When writing on paper, the paint will take a long time to harden, so you will often smear the text. This method should only be used as a last resort.

Is it possible to refill mascara?

The microparticles of ink are larger than those of ink, so the pen will quickly clog. In addition, the ink dries quickly, and after a few hours your pen will stop writing. It is also almost impossible to wash it off, since modern mascara has a moisture-resistant effect. This option is ineffective and useless, and you risk ruining the pen.

A fountain pen costs a lot of money, especially if it's a Parker. To ensure it lasts as long as possible, clean and rinse it regularly and use only appropriate ink and designs.

What to look for when buying a pen for occasional use?

Let's look at the options for pens that meet the requirements - they write beautifully and do not dry out for a long time.

Immediately sweep away the liners and capillary ones. Undoubtedly, they write beautifully, elegantly and are even suitable for calligraphy. But there is a significant drawback - they dry out quickly. Because they are actually felt-tip pens, but made using pen technology.

Ballpoint pens last the longest because the paste contains an oil rather than a water-based substance. The shelf life of such pens is from 2 to 5 years. But not all of them write beautifully. Cheap ones can smear, skip, and leave an unevenly saturated mark. For inexpensive models, you should take a closer look at the Uni and Pilot brands. They write richly and accurately.

With rollerballs, you don't have to worry about the ball spoiling or the contents of the rod sliding down. Simply because the ball rotates 360 degrees, and the writing is made of water. The shelf life is generally 2-3 years. But for some manufacturers, for example Pentel, it can reach 5 years. The rollerballs write beautifully and are pleasant to use.

Removing ink stains from various fabrics

Each type of fabric requires a specific method of removal, because a product that perfectly removes ink stains from one fabric may be powerless against stains on another. Read more about how to remove ballpoint pen stains from the main types of fabrics:

- linen, cotton . The white contaminated surface is treated with a cotton swab moistened with an ammonia solution (a glass of warm water is mixed with 5 ml of ammonia). After removing the stain, the item is washed with regular detergent.

For those who do not know how to remove ballpoint pen ink from clothes made of colored linen or cotton, turpentine and ammonia mixed in equal proportions will come to the rescue, which are applied to the stain and left until it is removed, after which the product is washed and rinsed. Lemon juice also helps a lot, removing ink without damaging the fabric;

silk, wool and other delicate fabrics . Such materials are treated with a soda paste, which is left on for 5-7 minutes, after which it is wiped with a cotton swab and the product is washed. It is also effective to remove ink stains with a soap solution mixed with gasoline or kerosene. The stain is treated with this mixture with a swab, after which it is wiped with 2% hydrochloric acid. In addition, the result can be achieved with a paste-like mixture of mustard powder diluted with water. Ink stains are thoroughly soaked with it, left for 2-3 hours, after which the product is washed with cold water;

What affects the characteristics

The writing characteristics of pens depend on the following factors:

  1. Type of handle . Ballpoint pens are the least demanding. Feathers require the most careful treatment.
  2. Quality of the rod (paste) . Poor quality rods may leak or dry out quickly.
  3. Temperature . At high temperatures, the ink begins to flow, and at low temperatures it freezes and stops writing.
  4. Availability of a cap . Almost all pens should be stored in a cap to prevent the paste from drying out.

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