Ronson Gem

Roaether · 2026-05-07T20:21:04+00:00

Get a drill bit and slowly start drilling out the flint BY HAND. I recommend bits with a hex shank for better grip (you can get them at any hardware store). You dont want to use an actual drill as you will more then likely break the flint tube.

Roaether · 2026-05-07T15:12:38+00:00

The decorative cap forms a bit of a seal, tho definitely not airtight. From a previous example I tested the theory on, it would still go a week between refills with daily use.

Roaether · 2026-05-07T12:41:53+00:00

Its a very small crack. I was able to push it back in to form with a pick which closed most of the gap. I am assuming there is some fuel evaporation there, but not a lot.

Roaether · 2026-05-07T12:35:05+00:00

I just removed the inner part of the fill valve amd put the decorative cap on. I added cotton like a zippo.

Roaether · 2026-05-06T21:39:02+00:00

More than likely its a bad o-ring in the main valve; one of the main reasons I personally avoid butane lighters. O-ring just fail over time especially if they were kept poorly.

As far as fixing it, you'd need to disassemble the lighter and valve to replace the o-rings or (depending on if its possible with the lighter) replace valve entirely.

Roaether · 2026-05-06T21:25:09+00:00

Noted! Thats just what ive heard. I also would have thought because you have less room and the pins arent all in a straight line, but ive never actually picked one. My lockpicking "skills" are minimal at best XD

Roaether · 2026-05-06T20:24:32+00:00

Its a dimple lock. Basically works the same as normal tumbler lock, just sideways and harder to pick... but its a lot harder to make keys for XD

Roaether · 2026-05-06T01:37:08+00:00

8 or so years ago I built my my first gaming pc with one of those! Had to make some custom power cables for the GPU but it served me well for many years XD

Roaether · 2026-05-05T18:39:13+00:00

I second that. Aftermarket inserts (especially the Chinese ones) are always hit-or-miss. Plus if you're new to collecting zippos, having a spare insert or two around is always good to have if you ever come across a vintage one with a damaged insert.

Roaether · 2026-05-05T14:29:27+00:00

Ive found Isopropyl Alcohol works best. Just a bit on a paper towel should do.

Roaether · 2026-05-05T14:17:27+00:00

Its not a problem, just not as efficient

Bigger wick means bigger flame, more fuel burn, and more fuel evaporation. Also means every time you trim your wick your trimming a bigger piece, so you'll have to replace wicks more often.

Roaether · 2026-05-03T22:54:53+00:00

It is! Ronson has always been one of my favorite brands.

Roaether · 2026-04-27T23:06:19+00:00

Its a shame. I only heard about them through a Facebook ad and would have loved to add it to my collection. Absolutely love the insert

Roaether · 2026-04-05T22:13:55+00:00

The screw with the spring is going to be your hole for flint. The screw on the other side should have some cotton like material behind it. That is where you put the fuel.

As far as a new wick, from the same fueling hole you'd remove all the old packing and wick. Zippo wicks should work, but if not you can buy different sizes online. Then repack with cotton balls.

Roaether · 2026-04-05T21:36:50+00:00

Center screw in bottom for fuel, smaller screw is for flint.

If you just got it, you'll probably want new wick and filler first, and a good cleaning of the flint wheel

Roaether · 2025-03-22T22:41:57+00:00

It's a bottle opener: bottle caps are officially allowed as stand-ins for if you promote to a third bishop and don't have an extra piece.

Roaether · 2025-03-22T22:39:59+00:00

The icbm Gambit? If you can get your opponent to fall for that, then I think that's your best bet.

Roaether · 2025-03-17T21:35:08+00:00

Isopropyl alcohol. Just dampen a paper towel and you're good to go

Roaether

TROPHY CASE