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By Invitation · 15-09-2005, 08:41

I have a large Danforth Compass which was removed from the boat years ago and the seal was left a little loose. some of the oil has drained out and I want to know if anyone knows the procedure for re-filling the compass. I know I could send this out to be done but it must be a simple procedure to do, I just need to know how and what oil to use.

Thanks

**GordMay** · 15-09-2005, 10:12

Properly refurbishing a compass entails a little more than merely “topping up the oil”.
Everything (jewel, pivot, card & dome) must be scrupulously clean, the dome uncrazed, the seals still sealing, etc.

The Danforth Compass website doesn’t offer much information, except there is a service centre locator: http://www.danforthcompass.com

Until recently, most compasses used Odorless Mineral Spirits as their damping fluid.
Ritchie (for one) now uses a fluid called Isopar L ® (*1) that has similar properties, but with some added benefits over Odorless Mineral Spirits. The two can be mixed together.
(*1) Isopar L® is a Registered Trademark of Exxon Mobil Corporation - generically known as: Isoparaffinic hydrocarbons (Isoparaffin), Hydroheated heavy naphtha (petroleum).

Some older style (up to 1960's) Compasses used an Isopropyl Alcohol and water mix, or Kerosene.

HTH,
Gord