Technical 50’s dash compass

So while on vacation I ran across this 1950’s dash compass. I took a chance on it as it looks like some of the water leaked out. Does anyone know if there is a way to top it off or refill it?

thanks,

Mike

 

I believe that they were filled with alcohol or very thin oil. Otherwise it would freeze.

 

Glycerine. It's often used in fluid-filled instruments.

 

Many compasses used "Varsol" which was a mixture of alcohol and distilled water.

 

Anyone ever taken one apart to refill one?

 

Aircraft Spruce sells compass fluid by the pint and kits to repair them.

 

I've seen those things but never really examined one closely regarding how they are sealed.
Are you seeing a bubble or are there other signs of leaking, such as a very low fluid line and old water stains, etc., on the carton?
I've never seen one of those that didn't have a bubble at the top so if that's what you are seeing, I wouldn't be concerned. It is what it is.

 

I know boat compasses have a plug to fill them and the oil is available for them, and they are the same type of compass.

I bought a new old stock Airguide compass for my boat ( 1966 StarCraft Holiday )and it leaked out and caused the vinyl on the dash to wrinkle

 

This one still has fluid in it but enough has leaked out so the compass sticks in one position until you jar it loose to float again.

I will check out Aircraft Spruce or a marine supply store.

thanks.

 

Here is a pic of the compass finally.