Were Two Different Pipe Inserts Made For Zippos?

[agnosticpipe]

I can't seem to find any info about Zippo pipe inserts. I've had a Zippo lighter with a pipe insert for a few years, and it looks like most of them I've seen. Big holes on the sides with a plate on top with a small hole in the center. A few days ago I decided to get another used one from ebay that caught my eye. When I got it though, I noticed that it looks like the usual pipe insert with the big holes on the sides, but there's no top on the insert at all. It looks like a standard lighter with big holes in the sides. This wasn't apparent from the photos that the seller posted, so I was a little surprised. I've tried it and it works ok, but not as good as my other one, as the flame wants to come out the top too. So I have to hold it at a steep angle so as not to char the top of the bowl. It's not a horrible problem, but I was curious if it was made that way or not. There doesn't seem to be any damage or evidence that a top plate was removed. I know it's just more nonsense to think about, but I just can't help myself. :roll:

Any Zippo collectors out there have any idea about this?

 

[anthonyrosenthal74]

It's probably just missing that little plate on the top. It's actually a seperate piece that comes off. Could be the ebay seller lost that little part.

 

[agnosticpipe]

Thanks Anthony, you were right, I checked my other lighter and that little top piece just pops off. I thought it was fixed in place or was one piece with the insert. Just having another senior moment I guess. As Emily Litella would say, "Nevermind".

I'll send it to Zippo to have a new piece put on, unless they'll send my one.

 

[anthonyrosenthal74]

Hopefully you can start using it again soon They're the best when you have a wind blowing.

 

[agnosticpipe]

I don't know how many will see this follow up, but after contacting Zippo, they said they would send me the little top plate for my pipe lighter. NO CHARGE!

So take the most dependable lighter I've ever owned, and add quick, friendly customer support and service, and you have one of the greatest businesses in the US.

Nice to see they still exist in this age bottom line mentality.