Bolex B8L Lightmeter question

[Bill Pascarelli]

I recently picked up my first Bolex, a great B8L with declic handle and Pan Cinor 30 zoom lens. Camera winds and runs perfectly and is in great shape. I am, however, having a problem with the light meter. The black needle always stays at the bottom no matter what I do with the apertures and no matter if I am in a dark area or light area. The meter DOES work only when I shine a flashlight into the lens from a few inches away or when I hold the lens 5 or 6 inches away from a lamp. In these cases, the needle quickly approaches the middle. Is the lightmeter "almost, but not quite" dead?? And would there be any suggestions for someone inexperienced like me who was basically going to rely on this lightmeter?