Iwata Eclipse malfunction help

The nozzle (part #4) is common to all the models shown in the exploded diagram. If it is missing, then yes, you have a major problem and it will need to be replaced before your airbrush will work. If you need to buy a replacement nozzle, it is essential that you buy the correct size for the needle you currently have (I believe the "standard" nozzle on the CS is 0.35mm)

If it is present and you are getting blowback into the paint cup, it suggests that the head cap (part #5) has not been tightened sufficiently. I strongly suggest loosening the needle chuck and withdrawing the needle slightly before attempting to tighten the head cap to avoid potential damage to the needle and/or nozzle. After tightening, re-seat the needle.

I have the same airbrush...very nice quality. And yes, you need the nozzle (part #4). Without it, the paint will leak and the air will escape in the fastest way possible: out the top cup. It's easy to lose the part when cleaning or assembly because unlike many airbrushes, the Eclipse nozzle just "sits" in there and doesn't screw in.

For the HP-CS, you're using the .35mm nozzle, which is brass with a tapered steel tip (not the .5mm nozzle) and it is quite expensive to replace. You may want to double check your area before throwing down the $25 or so to replace it.

You're looking for the one on top: http://shop.ebay.com/?_nkw=iwata%20eclipse%20nozzle&rvr_id=224731750978

PDF higher-rez diagram: http://www.iwata-medea.com/images/iwata-pdf/Eclipse%20IM.pdf

Damn. That's almost exactly what happened with my badger Renegade Velocity just now. Must be a pandemic.  Not sure what's wrong with mine. Probably essentially the same problem. Hope yours is fixed soon.

Thanks for the advice, guys.

Must have lost it during cleaning and didn't realize it was gone.  Will do a [fruitless] search and then off to hobby lobby this weekend with my 40% off coupon in hand!

thanks again!