Finer Things Christmas Gift- Along with a Fountain Pen question

Growing up I remember my dad had a Parker ballpoint "click" style pen that was a checkered sterling silver with the gold arrowhead. I believe this was part of the 75 series of pens, but I'm not sure if that model was fountain pen only, or applied to all pens with that pattern.. I was never sure what model it was, but I always wanted a fountain pen in that pattern, as it was simply my view of what a premium pen was supposed to be.. Of course any modern Parker fountain pen is out of my price range, and they now appear to be made by Waterman in France..

With Christmas coming up I'd mentioned to my dad that I'd like to have one like that if he could find it. Christmas morning I unpacked a roll... the full set of checkered sterling 75.... Fountain pen, ballpoint and mechanical pencil! He found vintage USA made versions, believes from the early 1970's vintage..

Needless to say I am very excited. However, I have had a bit of trouble getting the fountain pen going reliably. I use a Lamy fountain pen every day, but have never had a vintage/used fountain pen before. I have heard with fountain pens that the nib "conforms" somewhat to the user. Might that be my problem, or is it more likely to just need a good cleaning?

(I may try to get some pictures if there's requests, but don't have any now)

Also, anyone know of a good pen forum?