compasses

[Guest]

I have recently been given 2 Plastimo Contest compasses. They have both lost about a quarter of their fluid.
Questions:
1. Where the hell has it gone?
2. What is it?
3. Can I do anything about it short of throwing the instruments away?

Any suggestions gratefully received.

 

[vyv_cox]

1. Either leaked out or evaporated. The Contest range has a grub screw that allows filling and a concertina-type joint that allows expansion of the fluid. You will need to check which is leaking. If it's the joint there is probably little that can be done.
2. The Plastimo compasses that I have topped up used a clear hydrocarbon fluid. The proper stuff can be bought but any clear paraffin will do. Others use a water/alcohol mixture, and for these gin is a perfect substitute.
3. Re-fill via the grub screw. It is normally sealed with wax or something similar. Re-seal as well as possible to prevent a repetition of the leakage.

 

[chippie]

I had the experience of refilling a compass with alcohol only to find that the clear lens clouded up and started to dissolve after aweek or so. apparently it was made from a vinyl type material that was sensitive to alcohol.
A professional compass adjuster or the manufacturer should be able to advise you.

 

[jollyjacktar]

Professionals!

I even had a professional compass adjuster ruin on of my Plastimos by putting in the wrong fluid and desolving the thing as well. So tread wearily.

 

[ChrisP]

Hm. Gin in the compass. Sounds great and would explain some of my course keeping.