How to Repair Airbrushes

Paint will not flow correctly from an airbrush with a bent needle.

An airbrush that doesn't allow paint to flow freely through will alter the way the paint appears on media. Repairing an airbrush requires patience, and if you don't have the time or patience for this process, it is best to take your airbrush into a maintenance shop. However, if you've got a few minutes and a steady hand, you can repair your airbrush yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Needle nose pliers
• New airbrush needle

Instructions

1. Remove the cap that holds the nozzle in place. Remove the cap slowly and gently, as the needle inside may be bent in a manner that will catch on the nozzle cap. The bent needle will need to be replaced, but it is possible to do more damage to the inner workings of the airbrush if you aren't careful.

2. Grasp the needle if it is protruding out the end of the airbrush and remove it. If the needle does not remove easily, or is bent so that the end can't be reached with your fingers, use the needle nose pliers to grip the needle. Gently wiggle the needle from side to side; the needle should loosen and come out of the airbrush.

3. Install a new needle in the airbrush in place of the bent one. The new, straight needle will slide easily into place.

4. Replace the nozzle cap and test the airbrush by spraying some paint on a test piece. The spray should now come out smoothly with the new needle in place.

References

• AirbrushGuru: Learn How to Repair Bent Needles