leaking binnacle compass

[AndrewJ]

My binnacle compass has leaked some of the fluid out, anyone know what kind of solution is contained in one? I believe it's alchohol, but is it in solution with something else, and would ordinary rubbing alcohol work as a replacement. Ideas?
thanks.

 

[Evadne]

It varies, so best to ask the manufacturer, or try the website. This question has come up on here before so a long-term search for your compass might throw up the answer as well.
Some use a highly refined paraffin oil. If you get it wrong then the worst that could happen is that all the numbers come off the compass card.

 

[Salty John]

It is usually mineral oil, not mineral spirit. I've used this successfully on a couple of occasions.

 

[bpscmarine]

Do not put any liquid in the compass until you are sure of the type if you contact us we will be able to tell you what to use.
www.bpsc-marine.co.uk

 

[Oldhand]

Is it a C-Plath compass by any chance? If so it isn't an uncommon problem and the manufacturer's solution is to replace the compass at a "discount" price.

 

[Blue Fox]

My C-Plath leaked also, showed a beautiful bubble. After contacting the (Dutch) dealer, they told me to use clear lamp oil. Up till now that works quite fine.
Chris

 

[PilotWolf]

Cheapest alternative is to drain it all out and fill with baby oil.

I did my Ritchie compass this way on unofficial advise from their dealer when i objected to the £20 for 500mls of oil!

Works well on my RIB... the only problem being the 'knowing' look from the Tesco checkout girl when I brought it!

PW

 

[Norman_E]

Quote "the only problem being the 'knowing' look from the Tesco checkout girl when I bought it!"

Was she pretty?

 

[tomhanks4]

which tesco does she work at!

 

[Lakesailor]

and how did she know your compass was leaking?

 

[PilotWolf]

It was Ryde, IOW and she was OK!

MrsPW2B being there with one of those grins didn't help!

PW