How to Fix a Dried Out Fountain Pen?

To fix a dried out fountain pen, the most effective method is thorough cleaning, often involving disassembly and soaking the affected parts.

Fountain pens can dry out when ink evaporates in the feed and nib, causing clogs that prevent ink flow. Clearing these clogs is essential to restoring function.

The Fountain Pen Cleaning Process

Reviving a dried-out fountain pen primarily involves flushing and cleaning the ink pathways. For pens that are severely dried out, a deeper clean is necessary.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Dried Out Pen

Based on effective cleaning methods, including techniques involving disassembly and soaking, here's how to tackle a stubborn clog:

1. Flush the Pen: If possible, try flushing the pen first without disassembly. Use a converter (if applicable) to repeatedly draw in and expel clean, cool water. For cartridge pens, you might use a rubber bulb syringe designed for pen flushing. Continue until the water runs clear.
2. Disassemble the Pen: If flushing doesn't work, or for very old or severely clogged pens, disassemble the old fountain pen, removing any old ink cartridges, the nib, and the feed if possible. Be gentle, as some nibs and feeds are friction-fit, while others might be screwed in. Consult your pen's manual or manufacturer's website if unsure about disassembly.
3. Soak the Components: Once disassembled, the key parts need soaking. Soak the nib and feed in warm water for up to 2 days, depending on the age of the fountain pen. A small container or cup is ideal. Ensure the water is warm, not hot, as excessive heat can damage plastic parts. You can change the water if it becomes heavily discolored. For stubborn clogs, a tiny drop of mild, ammonia-free dish soap or a dedicated pen flush solution can be added to the soaking water (check pen compatibility first).
4. Final Rinse: After soaking, remove the parts from the water. Remove and rinse under warm water as a final flush. Use gentle running water to wash away any remaining ink residue loosened by the soak.
5. Dry the Parts: Allow all components to air dry completely on a clean paper towel before reassembly. This can take 12-24 hours.
6. Reassemble and Test: Carefully reassemble the pen. Ink it up with fresh ink (preferably a well-behaved ink initially) and test its writing performance.

Preventing Future Dryness

Once your pen is clean and writing again, consider these tips to keep it flowing smoothly:

• Cap Your Pen: Always cap your pen securely when not in use, even for short periods.
• Store Horizontally or Nib Up: Storing horizontally is generally best. Storing nib-up can also help prevent ink from pooling and drying in the feed, while storing nib-down can sometimes encourage ink to dry at the tip if not used frequently.
• Use Frequently: The best way to keep a pen from drying out is to use it regularly.
• Clean Regularly: Flush your pen when changing ink colors or if you won't be using it for an extended period (e.g., a few weeks).

By following these steps, particularly the thorough cleaning involving disassembly and soaking, you can successfully revive most dried-out fountain pens.