How to Replace a Zippo Wick: A Step-by-Step Guide
Restore reliable ignition by installing the wick correctly, arranging it through the fuel packing and trimming it to the proper height.
Explore Zippo CollectiblesA black wick does not always need immediate replacement. It can often be pulled upward and trimmed. Replace it when little clean material remains or repeated ignition problems continue after trimming.
Quick Answer
Empty the insert, remove the flint spring, felt pad and packing, then install a new wick through the chimney. Repack the fuel chamber while weaving the wick through the padding in an S pattern. Finish by trimming the wick level with the chimney.
Tools and Replacement Parts
You Will Need
- Genuine replacement wick
- Tweezers or needle-nose pliers
- Small flat screwdriver or coin
- Scissors or small wire cutters
- Clean cloth or paper towel
Before Starting
- Work away from flames and sparks.
- Allow remaining fuel to evaporate.
- Use a tray to prevent losing small parts.
- Photograph the packing order if necessary.
How to Replace the Wick
Remove the Insert
Open the lighter and pull the insert from the case. Turn it upside down on a clean work surface.
Remove the Flint Spring
Unscrew the spring carefully. It is under tension, so remove it slowly and keep the flint from rolling away.
Remove the Felt and Packing
Lift out the felt pad, then remove the packing material one piece at a time. Keep the pieces in order for easier reassembly.
Remove the Old Wick
Pull the old wick through the bottom of the empty insert or back through the chimney opening.
Install the New Wick
Feed the new wick through the chimney hole. Bend the exposed top over the chimney edge temporarily so it remains in position.
Repack in an S Pattern
Return the packing in small sections. Alternate the wick from side to side between the pieces, creating a loose S shape through the fuel chamber.
Reassemble and Trim
Replace the felt pad, flint and spring. Return the insert to its case, then trim the wick evenly with the top of the chimney.
Careful maintenance helps preserve both dependable performance and the condition of a collectible lighter.
Why the S Pattern Matters
The wick should touch as much packing material as possible. Weaving it through the chamber helps fuel travel evenly toward the chimney instead of leaving the wick pressed against one wall.
Collector tip: Perform maintenance with the insert removed from the decorative case. This reduces the risk of scratching polished, plated or printed surfaces.
Do not light the lighter immediately after spilling fuel. Wipe the insert, case and hands completely dry and move away from the filling area before testing the flame.
Keep Your Zippo Ready for the Next Flame
Correct wick installation can restore dependable ignition while helping a favorite everyday or collectible Zippo continue performing for years.
Shop Authentic Zippo LightersFrequently Asked Questions
When should a Zippo wick be replaced?
Replace it when little clean wick remains, after several trimmings, or when poor ignition continues after normal maintenance.
How high should the wick be?
Trim it evenly with the top of the chimney after the insert has been completely reassembled.
Why must the wick form an S pattern?
The S pattern increases contact between the wick and fuel packing, helping fuel travel evenly toward the flame.
Can I replace only the wick?
Yes. Packing and felt can normally be reused when they remain clean and undamaged.
Can a black wick simply be trimmed?
Yes. Pull it upward until clean material appears and trim it level with the chimney.
Why will my Zippo not light after replacement?
Check the fuel level, flint, wick height and whether the wick contacts the packing throughout the chamber.