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How to Replace the Wick on a Zippo Lighter

In 1932, George G. Blaisdell decided to improve an Australian designed lighter he had witnessed a friend using. The redesigned lighter, dubbed the "Zippo," became available in 1933. Zippo brand lighters feature a basic "box" shape, hinged case, removable flint and replaceable wick. The Zippo Manufacturing Company offers a lifetime warranty on all Zippo lighters produced. Over time and continued use, you may find it necessary to replace the wick in your Zippo lighter. Replacing the spent wick in your lighter is an easy task, provided you have the right tools at your disposal.

Things You'll Need

Tweezers
Fingernail clippers

Instructions

- 1
  Open your Zippo lighter, grasp the chimney section with one hand while holding the outside case. Separate the chimney section of the lighter from the outside case.
- 2
  Remove the flint spring by unscrewing the small brass thumbscrew located on the bottom of the chimney section. Palm the underside of the chimney section and tip it right side up to catch the small flint inside. Place the flint in a container for safekeeping.
- 3
  Remove the cotton sections visible from the bottom side of the chimney section, using a pair of tweezers.
- 4
  Pull out the old wick using the tweezers.
- 5
  Insert the new wick into the hole located on the top side of the chimney section. You may find it easier to roll the wick with your fingers during the insertion process. Leave a small amount length of wick protruding from the top side of the chimney before proceeding to the next step.
- 6
  Replace the cotton sections, one at a time, zigzagging the wick between each section.
- 7
  Insert the flint into the brass tube and replace the flint spring.
- 8
  Cut the excess length of wick flush with the top of the chimney section using a pair of fingernail clippers.
- 9
  Reinsert the chimney section into the case to complete the process.

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