ptred said:
OT a bit hor..
Which parts of a Zippo can be replaced?
Can the burnt out core be changed?
Basically, Zippo lighters are so BASIC that they last and last for years. I have one that is already 15 yrs and still works great.
The only things you need to change are the the flame's wick ( the string which you call the core) You can buy original zippo wick from most MAMA store. There is also the need to put in a new FLINT that part that you flick the wheel to grind a small tubular material to spark the flame on the wick. Original FLINT replacement comes in a pack of about 10 if I recall correctly. ( abit blur now since I have given up smoking for about 1 1/2 yrs

)
To replace the FLINT is very simple and you know you have already wore out the one that is in the lighter. When you flick the wheel, you get no spark and I advise you don't try too many times because since the FLINT is wore out..it actually slips out of the holder and what is pushing against the rough wheel is the stopper and you dont want to deform it by filing it down with your flicking.
Just unscrew the large screw at the bottom where you find the cottom that soaks and retain the lighter fluid. When you unscrew it..it will pop out along with a long spring and at the other end of it is the stopper that holds and pushes the FLINT up against the wheel.
The cotton wool is hidden by that more dense off white material which helps to hold the cotton wool in place. Far as I know, you never need to change that at all. You might want to change the cotton wool but I doubt so lah. I have yet to change any of the ones found in my Zippos.
Okay..maybe you already know about that but just thought I explain that as well lah.
Anyway...those are the only things you need to change. Other then that...nothing else will break down! heheh.. Here is a product's whoes success is base on the mantra of " Less is More"
BTW..you dont need to get a new wick just becasue the one you have photographed here is not all used up if this is a newly bought lighter. All you need to do is use a plier and tug at it slowly to raise it to reveal some "fresh" portion of the wick that is hidden inside the container. It is quite a long wick! so it will last you quite a while and it also depend on how long you keep the flame lit each time. If pulling it out not possible, it might be stuck or wedge too tightly by the cotton wool inside that soaks up the Lighter fluid. Just unpack abit of the cotton to release abit of the compress pressure and then you should be able to pull it out abit.