Important: This article applies only to CPTINK tattoo pens that use a clover-shaped cam plate drive system, including the Captain ONE, CPTINK LT, and CPTINK o1.
The explanation and troubleshooting method below may not apply to tattoo pens with a different internal drive system.
When a tattoo pen is turned on without a needle cartridge installed, especially when held upside down, you may hear a clicking or rattling sound.
In most cases, this tattoo pen clicking sound is normal and does not indicate a defect or internal damage.
Why Does a Tattoo Pen Make a Clicking or Rattling Sound?
1. Performance-Oriented Transmission Design
Inside the machine, there is a sliding transmission component that is not held in place by a spring.
Without a needle cartridge installed, the drive rod may not remain firmly pressed against the clover-shaped cam plate. As the motor runs, the two components may make light contact, creating a clicking or rattling sound.
The drive mechanism is intentionally designed without additional restrictions or spring resistance. This allows the tattoo pen to transfer power efficiently and deliver maximum torque.
The internal components are also fully lubricated to help the transmission mechanism move smoothly.
For this reason, the sound heard when the machine is running without a cartridge is usually a normal result of its performance-focused design—not a manufacturing defect or quality issue.
2. The Contact Position May Shift During Shipping
Movement and vibration during shipping may slightly change the contact position between the cam plate and the sliding transmission component.
This is also normal. Once a compatible needle cartridge is installed and the tattoo pen runs for a short time, the internal components will usually return to their correct working position.
How to Test a Tattoo Pen That Makes a Clicking Sound
- Turn off the tattoo pen and securely install a compatible needle cartridge.
- Hold the machine in its normal operating position.
- Turn it on and let it run for a short time.
Video: Clicking Sound Before and After Installing a Needle Cartridge
What Should You Do If the Sound Disappears?
If the clicking or rattling sound disappears after installing the needle cartridge, the tattoo pen is working normally.
The original sound was caused by the normal movement of the internal transmission components while no cartridge was installed.
What Should You Do If the Sound Continues?
If the unusual sound continues after a compatible needle cartridge has been correctly installed, dust, dried lubricant, or residue inside the drive mechanism may be increasing friction between the moving components.
Please clean, inspect, and lubricate the machine by following the steps in our guide:
How to Maintain a Tattoo Pen | Cleaning & Lubrication Guide
If the sound continues after you have completed the maintenance steps in the guide, please contact CPTINK customer support for further assistance.
