Beware use of unspecified lighter fluid use in your Zippo!

[checotah]

Forgot to mention that I generally hold the match horizontal, occasionally slightly head down if the match doesn't fully ignite immediately. Man, more detail than I've ever thought about!

 

[jitterbugdude]

Also I had drilled a hole in the middle of the lighter shield and I made my zippo into a pipe lighter.

You could have just sent it to Zippo and they would have put a new pipe lighter insert in for free.

 

[pappymac]

Nothing to add about cleaning the Zippo, but it sounds like you may have tried using charcoal lighter fluid instead of a lighter fluid intended for a lighter. It's not nearly as volatile as Ronson or Zippo lighter fluid.

 

[puffndave]

Thanks, Checotah, and thanks everyone for your thoughts.
Pappymac, that is just what I want to investigate now, knowing so little of industrial chemistry. That stuff I bought is indeed charcoal lighter fluid, could it be a different chemical from naphta, or would it be not refined enough for use in lighters? Ericusrex said he uses VM&P naphta, sold at Home Depot by the gallon. So how can I know if what I'm buying will be volatile enough, when not specified for use in lighters?

 

[mrbaho]

Use Coleman lantern fuel. I have used this for years. A one gallon can is $12.00 and it does not leave an odor. Your wallet will thank you.

 

[checotah]

Just did a little research around here. Went to Fred Meyers (a Kroeger store), WalGreens, Walmart, Bi-Mart, Safeway, and Albertsons. None carry Zippo fluid, only Ronsonol. Did find it at a cigarette & e-cig store, which was the first time I've been in one. FWIW.

 

[ejames]

I buy lighter fluid at then local discount cigarette store where I get most of my OTC tobacco. They carry both Ronson and Zippo fluid,as well as flint,wicks etc, but the Ronson is in a bigger container--and cheaper.