Okay, thanks again for all of the great information. I have it soaking in almost boiling water right now. I heated the water on the stove until just before boiling and the took it off the heat and dropped the nib in there. I couldn't even draw water through it using the converter. If that doesn't loosen it up, and I don't think it will, then I'll try lacquer thinner before looking to replace parts. Cheers