Great video. I'm like you and I do not replace generators unless they are truly at end-of-life. I picked up a large parts lot in the spring this year and it had a lot of 335 and 321 parts so many G3 generators (last count was over 20). Most were plugged solid and the needle, cardboard tube and spring were NOT coming out. I used an old trick I learned in auto shop sooo long ago in that I soak them for at least a week in seafoam. Same stuff you pour into your gas tank or oil in your car. it does a great job of breaking up the carbon and dissolving any gummed up fuel and varnish. The best part is that it is reusable for a long time. I keep it in a mason jar, drop the generators in (bottom side facing down), close it up and leave it in a warm spot and forget about it. So far I have only had a single one that I was not able to rescue and that one just needs a new cardboard tube. Since I have so many just sitting there waiting to get installed as I go through all the parts I'm in no rush to finish the job. Really appreciate you showing your methods. In our disposable 'throw it away" society it's nice to see people who are willing to put in just a little more effort to keep the old stuff going.

I always like watching your videos. Hearing that you never replace generators make me know that if I take things slow I can always have a good chance at making my old generators new again. Your videos are always so calm and like I’m sitting there with you going through the projects. Thanks so much.

@kylostefan4661

2 жыл бұрын

You prolly dont give a damn but does any of you know of a trick to get back into an Instagram account..? I was stupid lost the account password. I would love any tips you can offer me

@desmondgraham1249

2 жыл бұрын

@Kylo Stefan instablaster ;)

@kylostefan4661

2 жыл бұрын

@Desmond Graham thanks for your reply. I got to the site thru google and I'm in the hacking process now. I see it takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.

@kylostefan4661

2 жыл бұрын

@Desmond Graham it did the trick and I finally got access to my account again. I am so happy! Thank you so much you saved my ass!

@desmondgraham1249

2 жыл бұрын

@Kylo Stefan No problem xD

I replace that cardboard with fine mesh brass screen. McMaster Carr carries it. You can order it in small 12x12in sheets that will do a lot of generators. Just roll it around the cleaning needle snugly until it's thick enough to make a snug slip fit into the generator tube. This works REALLY well and transfers heat to the fuel fast. I copied what they did with the small military stove stove generators. This allows a generator to basically last forever. When perfomance eventually decreases, just do what you did here. Unroll the mesh screen and torch it. The carbon is gone in seconds. Give it a rinse and some tooth brush action to get rid of the ash, roll it back up and Robert is your father's brother. Since brass anneals with heat, it will be soft and easy to roll. Copper and brass don't harden when quenched like steel, so feel free to dunk it in water or vinegar. Once you get the size right, you can cut several out. They roll easier if you hit them with a torch to red hot first.

@coffeeandlifting

Жыл бұрын

Good idea. Do you keep the spring as part of the assembly or discard it?

@mikemorgan5015

Жыл бұрын

@@coffeeandlifting It isn't critical unless you get too much liquid during light up or pulsing in operation. It's been a while, so I don't remember which, or how many I trimmed down to accept the spring or when/why I eliminated it on others. The cardboard one simply displace liquid fuel and provided insulation so that the outer fuel path would heat fast. But liquid still creeps by the cleaning rod too. Once it's hot, back pressure from vaporization keep the liquid rate low. If some DOES get through, that space where the spring is allows expansion and final vaporization of any droplets lucky enough to get that far and makes a little surge arresting buffer.

@coffeeandlifting

Жыл бұрын

@@mikemorgan5015 Good info on the theory of operation. I'll give it a try with and without the spring. Trying to remember if my 530 has a spring inside the mesh. Pretty sure it doesn't. That might be a clue. Could be that it's only necessary when you don't already have lots of surface area of highly conductive material as would be the case if you're using wire mesh instead of cardboard to fill the space.

@mikemorgan5015

Жыл бұрын

@@coffeeandlifting No sweat. Play around and see what works. No spring in a 530 generator. But remember, that those generators get a most of their heat from conduction from the burner bell. Shorter is better because of the shorter heat path.

I like this video, very helpful. Just a thought ,maybe consider getting a screen for your sink incase you drop a piece when rinsing. It would be a shame to lose something down the drain.

Thank you! I very much needed this video. I am learning to work on lanterns. I have 2 that will not work. I'm frustrated but I am not hurrying. I cleaned a generator and that piece of brass mesh fell out. I was very disturbed because I didn't know what to do. I was much relieved when I saw that you had a piece also. I will torch the other tomorrow, like you did, because it will not come apart. I'm getting there though!

Thanks for the great video. Your video inspired me to try to restore a few and ended up saving 6 220 and 5 200 generators!

They come with many different sizes of metal rods. Also thank you for this very good set of tips for cleaning the generators.

I’m glad I watched this. I have an older 222B that stopped working years ago. I was hoping I’d have time to fix it up one day. I’m going to try cleaning the generator now. Seems as though the top is plugged for sure.

I've searched for answers on a pulsing 228f, your one of the very few to mention it, thank you,

Very good tutorial!! I clean my generators basically the same way. Sometimes I rap stranded copper wire around the needle stem spacing it out a little. This works well and allows me to use unleaded gas in my lanterns!! Thank you!! Jim from Kansas!!

Great video. Great instructions! After taking my lantern totaly appart cleaning allmost everything but the generator I found this video, cleaned the generator.... and now it works! Thanks!!!

Mate, your tutorials are fantastic! Thank you so so much for filming this. I have a couple of Tilley lamps that work well, one however, has decided to 'pulse' when running - blocked generator. So I am going to try this on my Tilley generators it should work well.

This is such a great presentation that will be useful for me and expertly done here ..thank you

Excellent video, thanks for uploading !

Nicely done. Good job, man.

Nice video man Very helpful, I was just given a lantern and was worried about the generator, now I know how to clean it if I need to :)

I have found that using the flint retracting lighter accessory and keeping the fuel flow way down during generator warm up, a whole lot less carbon forms on the exterior of the generator. These dark spots create the hot spots inside that cooks the tube over the spring. Matches introduce corrosive sulfur compounds in the lantern that will slowly corrode the exterior of the generator and propane lighter flames are just quite sooty.

Thanks for the tip on the heat and quench - saved me from buying a new generator. Right on.

Niece to see a fellow Workmate user. Good video, thank you!

Learned something new here, 'thanks for making this.

Great video, I just stumbled across it, now I just picked up a 200A on ebay with brass fount. Can't wait to get it and restore it, and get away from the propane lanterns- they have no craftsmanship.

Many thanks for making this video! It will save dozens of generators at my place alone. Wish you could do one on saving suitcase stove gennies too - new gennies for the 2-burner suitcase stoves often cost more than the stoves are worth, would be nice to see a proper method of making them like new again.

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Mike. You can restore a stove generator with the same process. Unscrew it from the valve, unscrew the tip, remove the gas jet, spring, and cleaning rod. Boil them all in some citric acid or vinegar, Clean with fine steel wool and run a stiff brush through the generator tube. In most cases it'll be good as new. If the spring won't come out due to carbon, you can heat and quench as with the lantern generators. It'll take more heat, but the steel will tolerate that better than brass lantern generators.

Another great informative video but I have to say you make me mighty nervous rinsing those small pieces in the sink without a strainer.

This is great info. Wish i had spent more time trying to save some of mine

An alternative to your fire method: Soak any metal part that is carbon fouled in a product called "Piston Kleen" by Orison Engineering. It will safely dissolve the carbon and leave your brass parts unharmed. This product is biodegradable and very environmentally friendly, but a word of caution using it on coated parts - any paint or coating that contains a carbon filler will be stripped off. Things like cerakote and Teflon coatings will be softened and lose their adherence to the metal surface. Its great for cleaning anything that gets carbon fouled. I drop the part into a mason jar filled with Piston Kleen and leave it for several days. You can tell when the carbon is dissolved by swirling the jar and you'll see the carbon come out and settle to the bottom of the jar. Its reusable and a coffee filter will screen the carbon out, pouring it from one jar to another. A gallon of Piston Kleen costs $25 and it'll last a long time if you keep it in a closed mason jar.

@benkanobe7500

2 жыл бұрын

I can not find this on Amazon in the USA. Where do I get it?

Great tips!

I was just able to acquire a 236 Major and I've got a plugged generator. Thanks for this video, I'll be trying this today.

@crabtrap

3 жыл бұрын

236 should have a large and small spring inside and no packing. very easy to clean

@kellycooleyCPS

3 жыл бұрын

@@crabtrap are you sure about that? I have a Canadian 2-47 236 Major plugged up, and it sure looks like an asbestos packing in the generator to me when i shine a light up through the bottom of the generator! It's currently lodged in there - I got the tip cleaner out of it, but the rest is stuck.

@crabtrap

3 жыл бұрын

@@kellycooleyCPS the original packing was double spring, later replacements can have fiberglass or perhaps asbestos. All mine are US factory so CA may have used differant. Either way, the packing is to slow flow of liquid fuel down so it can vaporize properly.

@kellycooleyCPS

3 жыл бұрын

@@crabtrap thanks for the quick response! I've had two 237 Empire (both Canadian) with the double spring you describe, but this one appears to be different. I'm a little hesitant to pull away at it, so I'll likely use Bill's method of heat/quench. Have to find a suitable respirator and cartriages rated for asbestos filtering, though!

@crabtrap

3 жыл бұрын

@@kellycooleyCPS don't be hesitate. you can repack with copper wire or fine brass mesh. or go to 'oldcolemanparts . com' and by a new one reasonably priced. youtube search rebuilding a coleman lantern generator. its easy especially the bigger 236/237's

Interesting, informative, thank you for posting.

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I have watched most of your videos and they have been very helpful. In this video you mention replacing the cardboard tube in the generator by wrapping the spring with stranded 16 guage copper wire. Could you please do a video on this? Also, in another of your videos you mention using plumbers packing rope to replace the carbon valve stem packing. I bought some of the 1/8 inch packing and now I need to know how to use it. Could you include those instructions in the same video?

@benkanobe7500

2 жыл бұрын

I am in the same situation as you. I have two beautiful CQ lamps but they leak at the fuel valve that have the string graphite. I have asked here and other places on YT and not one has shown how to do it, but they like to show off their lamps. I don't get it.....

Nice job!

Great vid

Ew a Canadian. Nice video you helped me out I needed this on my camping trip and without this video I would not have been able to use my lantern. First and last time I don't do my safety checks on it.

Great video thanks

Good information and great video. But damn dude, put a strainer in that sink drain! You were spiking our anxiety with visions of that gas jet falling into the abyss 😱 Regarding the asbestos tube, you will never be able get the tube over 212 degrees until after the asbestos inside has dried out. I don't believe this proposes much risk, but thought I'd mention it. Keep up the good work.

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. The generator doesn't need to reach 212°F to work. Gasoline will start vapourising once it's over 100°F. The problem with wet asbestos is that you end up with water and water vapour mixing with the gas vapour and interfering with combustion. It basically means a bit of a cranky first light-up, but it will settle down pretty quickly. As far as the sink goes, I've lost count of similar comments about the drain. I've never dropped anything down there, but there's a reason I use the side of the sink with the garbage disposal. Nothing on a lantern is small enough to get past the holes in the garbage disposal. If I drop anything, it can be pretty easily retrieved. If I drop anything down the other side, it'll quickly be gone forever.

While watching, I have been afraid of something may drop into the sink. I'm also looking for a video for stove's generators as well. They are not straight, I wonder how you will cope with these kind of generators found in Coleman 533's or the like. Thank you for sharing this valuable video with us.

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

It's never been a problem, but that's why I use the side of the sink with the garbage disposal. If something falls down the other side it could be gone forever or, at least, I'd have to take apart the trap to get it back. If it falls in the garbage disposal I can just reach down and get it. There's nothing on a stove or lantern small enough to get through the holes.

Thanks!

Thanks, I have a hard time finding replacements

I like your videos, and btw you looks like R M Renfield from Dracula movie 1992.

Excellent video! I might offer one bit of advice. I see many people struggling with their needle nose pliers not getting a good grip on items. Get a pair of Lindstrum or another high quality, Swedish brand of pliers. The difference is stunning. They are expensive but they are worth every penny. Thanks for doing these videos. I'm new to lantern and stove repairs and restoration, these videos help a LOT. Thank you.

I still find it difficult to believe that cardboard is used inside an extremely hot generator. I've just inherited a 282 from the nineties with very little use. So generator hopefully ok. I have used this heating and quenching method on Tilley and Vapalux lamps and it does work.

Another in a long line of super informative videos - thanks again! I have a G3A generator off a '79 321B that I managed to get cleaning needle assembly out of, and it's just covered in black sticky carbon, making it not slide easily inside the spring loaded tube still wedged in the main tube. I plan to do the mild warm acid soak on the cleaning needle assembly that you outline here. My question is the rest of the tube - I think it's the second type you feature here with the cardboard tube and spring, but I cannot get it out to confirm that. Just curious if you've restored any of these G3As and that indeed that's what I'm likely to find inside it once I do the heat/quench? Thanks!

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Sorry for missing your comment, Kelly. Yes, a G3 generator's going to have a cardboard tube. The procedure for removal will be the same.

@kellycooleyCPS

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thanks, Bill!

Thank you for your videos!! I have a very clean 202 and it works well.. where do I find values for these lanterns?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Value is subject and depends on the market. Looking at sold listings on eBay can give you an idea of what thing sell for in a national or global market, but those prices aren't likely to be realistic in your local market. It depends on local demand. Lanterns and stoves are cheap where I live, because there's very little demand. In other places with lots of competing collectors they usually sell for much more.

I always knew this could be done but haven't spent the time to accomplish it. My jar of mystery generators can be cleaned sometime when I get the time. I have some 236 generators with a slight bend what would you recommend when refurbishing these? Thanks for the video very educational.

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

They're brass and can be easily straightened, especially after heating and quenching.

Trying to breath some life into a crusty 502 stove I have had for years (3/65 date on the bottom). Your systematic approach has been very helpful. Once I was able to pull the spring from the generator tube, it stretched a bit during the pull, and it had no cardboard or asbestos insulation at all (just black goo). Seems like the rod just rode down the tube by itself, centered by a full length spring. Wondering if I can run it this way and if I can shorten the stretched spring by an inch and still be OK. I'll get a new generator if necessary, but if I can make this work, it would be great.

@king.coleman

8 ай бұрын

Stove generators lack the cardboard/asbestos tube; they just have a spring and cleaning rod. I'd do what you can to compress as much of the spring as possible back into the generator. If you have to trim just a bit off, it probably won't make a difference. If you have a trim a lot off, it could be a problem. I cut a couple inches off the spring in a 3F generator for the same reason and now it has trouble maintaining temperature when the burner is on low.

@corey6393

8 ай бұрын

@@king.coleman Thanks for the quick reply. I did figure out about the lack of insulation packing after seeing a couple other videos. Also, I did have to cut off about 3/4" from the stretched spring. I do not have things all reassembled yet, but will do so tomorrow if all goes well. I will report back in here with the results. And like I said, it's and experiment and I will buy a new generator if need be. Thanks again for the help, and for the videos.

Great video instruction! I was wondering if you can give us a demonstration using a copper wire instead of using the asbestos/cardboard method? I may have misunderstood you and wondered how can a copper wire be used.

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

I'll see if I can do that in a future video. It's not difficult. Just take copper wire and wrap it around the cleaning rod. When I've done it in the past I used an old, damaged cleaning rod just in case it got bent in the process.

@TonyWatchesClosely

Жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Awesome! I'll be looking forward to that!

Soak in Costco Degreaser (available at their commercial product stores) overnight and voila! Clean and disassembled completely and safely. The carbon and or varnish are troublesome but can be overcome! Hadn't thot to use a torch to burn it off. Add new packing and spring (if heating for sure!) or clean if able to remove after Degreaser.

@king.coleman

5 ай бұрын

I'm familiar with Costco, but I don't know what a Costco "commercial product store" is.

@zjan4me

5 ай бұрын

@@king.coleman It's their Whole Sale warehouse that restaurants and businesses use. Retail customers can shop at them. They sell whole cows, lambs etc along with lots of commercial grade products and foodstuffs. We have one here in Vegas and lost large cities have them. The Degreaser is amazing yet gentle and have used it for years on everything from coleman parts to shower pans! Find one if you can!

You could use a brush that you clean gun barrels.

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

Bore brushes work well if you've got the right size.

Dear Kingcoleman, Discovering your tutorial tonight was a real gift to me. I do all my cooking everyday on a coleman 425 suitcase stove with regular gas (unit has a dual fuel generator in it), consequently lots of carbon builds up. I would clean the rod with mild sandpaper, and run a coat hanger rod through the spring but could never get the spring out for a proper cleaning. I will try the heating and water drench method. Question: how hot for the outer tube, should I get it glowing red ( I also have oxy acetylene for rapid extreme heating. Boiling in vinegar, regular white vinegar or mixed with water? Thank you much for your video, and it reminds me when I attended a 1990 coleman meet in Indiana. All the best and gratitude from New Rochelle N.Y. bruce the swimmer.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

It doesn't need to be red hot. I'd stick with propane. Oxy-acetylene may get too hot too quickly. On a stove generator, I'd recommend using straight white vinegar.

@stewartbruce2409

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you for your prompt response. Hope to converse with you in the future when I have time to work on some quick light generators.

Thanks for sharing your video! Very educating! My question is, I just bought a new generator for my 200A lantern, works good now except when I turn the cleaning lever up, it should turn off but it stays on. What do you think the problem is? Would it be inside the eccentric block? Thank you in advance!

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

When the cleaning lever is up it should dim, but it should not go out. If nothing happens when the lever is turned, the most likely problem is that you bent the needle on the tip of the cleaning rod during installation. Depending on how bad it's bent, you may be able to very carefully straighten it.

@viipsrvs1

4 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you for replying! I will check the cleaning tip wire.

G'day to you! Please tell me what the cardboard tube and spring are for?. Thanks

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

There's some debate about that, but the primary purpose seems to be merely keeping the cleaning rod centred in the generator. Some argue that they're there to slow the flow of fuel or to retain and regulate heat, but I have yet to see a good explanation for either that relies on physics. R-55 generators have neither spring nor tube, which I think debunks the idea that they're needed to control fuel or heat. The tube can be replaced with copper wire or brass/bronze wool wrapped around the spring and the generator will work just as well.

Thanks for this interesting video. My 282/700 generator is to be cleaned, what do you think of cleaning in ultrasound bath? Do you have experience with that method?

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

Yes, ultrasonic cleaners work. You'll still need some kind of mild acid solution for the bath. I've found that I still need to run a brush through the generator tube and do a bit of scrubbing on the spring to get rid of carbon deposits, which is why I find it easier to just put them in a bot on the stove.

Some great tips there. Thanks. I’m unfamiliar with the Coleman’s as I live in Ireland, mainly Uk & European lamps. However I just bought a Coleman 639 in almost perfect condition. Made in Canada stamped 1--73 on base. It actually came full of fuel & pressurised ! Because the inside of the hood is so clean & just showing very light soothing I suspect it was only lit once or twice. The issue I have with it is that the pump is VERY hard to push in. What are your thoughts on this & how should I proceed to getting it running again. Thanks in advance.

@king.coleman

11 ай бұрын

Did you turn the pump handle anti-clockwise to unscrew the air stem from the check valve? The air stem seals the check valve when close, so if you don't unscrew that enough you may find it hard to pump. Or it may be a lubrication issue. Be sure the leather pump cup is well lubricated.

@TonyM540

11 ай бұрын

@@king.coleman Thanks for speedy reply. I hadn’t done that and now it’s pumping ! Also leaking fuel everywhere! Such fun. I’ll tighten up everything and try again. Thanks again.

Fr. Bill I had no idea that the REC had such an asset. Your videos are very helpful. I’m repairing a couple of 220s and this was good info. By the way, do you know if the enamel can be restored on these? 220J and 220K, or if it is worth trying for just a few small spots.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Are you talking about the enamel paint on the fount or the porcelain on the vent? Founts can be repainted. I recommend automotive grade paint that will resist gasoline spills. There's a place called Independence Porcelain Enamel in Missouri that is able to refurbish vents for around $30-$50 (depends on the vent). I'd be hesitant to invest that much in a 220J/K vent since they're so common.

@wesleysmith1463

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman I was referring to the vent. I guess based on that I thought the whole thing was some kind of ceramic or enamel. I can probably just wait until another one comes along and swap parts. Thanks.

Nice video. I found a Coleman 500a single burner stove at a flea market and the generator was totally clogged and frozen up. New generators for these are not available that I can find. Using the heat and quench method I was able to free up and remove the spring and rod.These have no tube, asbestos or cardboard. Now I want to clean the parts in the citric acid solution. But I am unsure of the ratio of citric acid to water. Can you tell me what the mixture ratio is? Thanks.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Yes. Stove generators just have a spring and the cleaning needle inside. I usually usually add about 1 teaspoon of citric acid powder to a litre of water. You can make a weaker solution if you prefer. A weak solution will work just as well as a stronger solution. It'll just take longer to work.

Do you use Coleman Fuel/White Gas, or regular gasoline? Does it make much difference in terms of clogging up the generator?

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

Regular unleaded is fine as long as it's fresh. White gas will last forever, but unleaded doesn't age well and will go bad over time. It's that stale unleaded that will leave deposits behind in the fuel system and make a mess of the generator.

Was the asbestos still wet upon reassembly? Was it dry before lighting? Great videos, BTW!

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the question. I probably should have noted in the video that I did hit it with the torch *after* I put it back into the generator. You can leave it wet, but the lantern will be pretty cranky on the first light-up.

Awesome! I’ve got a 335 pine green 1/76 that I converted to Kero with a 339 Gen and a preheat cup. Runs great, kept the original G3 that came with the 335. Good to know about the copper wire. The cardboard tube in mine is fine but glad to have a back up plan. Now do you wrap the spring the same length that the cardboard tube originally covered?

@king.coleman

10 ай бұрын

It's really only there to keep the cleaning rod centred in the generator, so if it's the same or a bit longer or shorter shouldn't make a difference.

Thanks for this video. Planning on camping on the Island in the fall so testing equipment. My Coleman Duel Fuel Lantern either will not burn or burns very dimly. Since it was not used at all last year I expect it needs a cleaning. After viewing this I decided to clean the generator but I get stuck at the point where you pull the central unit out of the generator (at 1:49 in the video) No amount of back and forth movement makes a difference. The outer brass tube has two dimples in it. It is a newer model (285a). Could it be that this is a crimping to prevent removal?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

I've never seen one like that, but if the outer tube is crimped, that's probably the case. If you can get the guts out, try soaking it in carb cleaner overnight and see if it improves.

@marloweirvine6740

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thanks so much. It is just a tiny crimp, like a centre punch was used but I will try a soak.

@marloweirvine6740

2 жыл бұрын

Again a thanks for your good advice. I soaked the generator in fuel injector cleaner (all I could find locally) for five days. Completely restored function. May just I will just do that at the end of every season.

Great video, great information thanks, is there a fix for the spring? I've had several that come out in pieces or half of it just rusted gone

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

To my knowledge no one sells replacement springs specifically for Coleman generators. That said, there are places that sell springs and if you can find one the right size there's no reason it shouldn't work.

@jastimbal60

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman ok yeah thats what i figured, I'll have to research on where i can get a spring that would fit, its a shame to throw away a generator just because of a bad spring, thanks for your reply

Could you please show how to make a new brass or copper tube to replace the asbestos/ cardboard tube. An do they work better than the original tubes? Just a thought, I was wandering if a set of welding torch cleaners would work better at cleaning the sprayer tip. They come in a small aluminum box with many deferent sizes of metal

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

I'll add it to my list of potential videos to make in future. Using copper wire or bronze wool works as well as the original tubes. Its function is to centre the cleaning rod, so anything that does that and doesn't melt or burn up will work just fine. I can't comment on welding torch cleaners as I know nothing about them.

@marksanders8028

Жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman thank you very much.

Bill, I have a 222a easi lite lantern. The cleaning needle is bent badly. Any way to straighten the needle or is it toast? Thank you

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

There's a good chance it'll break when you try to straighten it, but it's always worth a shot. It won't do you any good as it is. Use what works: fingernails, needlenose pliers...it will depend on the shape it's bent into. If it's been bent once, the chance are better that you'll be able to get it straightened out without breaking it. If it's been bent repeatedly, it'll likely break when bending it back.

It’s funny you mentioned the pulsing, my 220K pulses slightly. Got it used, probably needs a good cleaning.

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

220s and 228s are notorious for pulsing. Sometimes a new generator will fix it, but it's no guarantee.

@Sjackson2369

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman I’m noticing the more I use it the more it comes out of it. I use it in the fall on the back porch and it’s getting better every day

@Sjackson2369

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman I actually picked up a 228E this morning, and got it running after tightening up a few small leaks. It’s got a pulse to it currently but I am expecting it to come out of it after some use

Love your channel. Regarding cleaning generators, I have a question: no doubt you have addressed this somewhere. I have been been cleaning my generators since watching this video. Recently I attempted to clean a 201 generator due to severe carbon build up. I’ve already cleaned this generator a number of times. This last time I damaged the spring that wraps around the pricker wire. All other parts of the generator cleaned up perfectly. Ok here is my question: what can be used in this generator as a replacement for the spring shaped part allowing me to continue to use the generator in lieu of spending ~$25.00+shipping for a new Coleman replacement 201 generator? Any suggestions would be welcome. Finally just a word about you channel. Keep up your good work. 😊

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

A lot of guys wrap bronze wool around the cleaning rods, but I can't speak to how that would work in a kerosene generator. I've only heard of it being used with gasoline and I don't know if that would make a difference. I'd either visit a hardware store that sells springs and see if I could find something similar to the original or I'd wrap the cleaning rod with 16 gauge copper wire.

@mdenny6044

Жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman thank you

I used to clean Tilley Lamp, generators with a chemical that I bought for dissolving rust on car parts, but I cannot remember the name of it. I'd soak them overnight, and they would be spotless by the morning.

I have a 220j that I can't get the nut at the bottom of the generator tube to tighten all the way down..it still shows about 1/4 inch of thread and I dont think its cross threaded...everything is correct inside the generator and its connected properly..any suggestions?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

The thing to be concerned about isn't how much thread is showing, but if the generator is secured tightly to the valve. If the generator-valve seat is good and the nut is tight, it should be fine. If the nut is tight, but the generator is still loose, then you may have damaged threads.

@tonyfrancis7400

3 жыл бұрын

I got it working. It seemed like others did not have near the thread showing that I did on my 220j but after pulling everything to clean and lubing the pressure pump all is working good. Thanks!

I have a Coleman 295. A couple of questions please: - - 1How do I clean the generator 2 I can unscrew the top but then how do I take out the needle (does it have to be taken out for cleaning?) Thanks much in advance.

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

They're all pretty much the same. As in the video, the needle is removed from the bottom, not the top. How bad it is will determine how aggressively you need to clean it. In most cases a boil in citric acid or white vinegar and cleaning with a bore brush will take care of it.

Wow... I have a functional 1944 220B .. replaced the generator a few years back when I bought it,, but still have the original.. (don't throw anything away ha ha ha..)

Hey, great videos. Any tips or tutorials on cleaning a Coleman 508 stove generator?

@king.coleman

10 ай бұрын

Those are tough. If it's not bad, you could just shoot carb cleaner through it or boil it in a citric acid or white vinegar bath. If it's really clogged you could try heating and quenching to break up the carbon, but at that point it might be best to replace it.

@hutcha107

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for the quick reply. Can you boil the whole generator and regulator assembly with the lever or do you need to take it apart?

@king.coleman

10 ай бұрын

@@hutcha107 Just the generator.

Hello there, I have another question is there is it the same process with the r55 generator?

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

It a little different. kzread.info/dash/bejne/dK2q3Jt6XcurdLA.html

Something to consider... I use a cheap ultrasonic cleaner for this procedure and it works perfectly in just a couple minutes. Use Lime Away and water as a cleaning solution. Carbon and everything else comes right off without heat.

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

I've picked up an ultrasonic cleaner at Harbor Freight on one of my trips to the States. I've tried various solutions and have had little success with using it to clean generators.

Do you put that little screen back in the generator that came out?

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

No! It's not necessary these days as modern fuel is clean. Trying to put the brass screen back in the generator is a surefire way to end up with a bent or broken cleaning needle.

You pulled a tiny fuel screen out of the generator, but didn't address how or whether you replaced it. In cleaning out my generator, I dislodged it, too. Is it necessary with today's presumably cleaner fuel? If it is, where the heck does it go? I can't see how the tiny, fragile cleaning needle could go through it to do its job. Thank you very much. Well done video.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Throw it away. There's really no need for it with today's clean fuel. That's doubly true if you're also using a filter funnel when filling your lanterns. That screen needs to come out to get the generator clean and if you try to put it back, you'll likely end up with a bent or broken cleaning needle. Coleman stopped building generators with those screens back in the early 70s.

@rereficoli4983

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Great! Thank you very much for your prompt reply, which allows me to reassemble my lantern and test it. I share your apparent love for these things, if not your knowledge and skills. Merry Christmas.

@christophertucker1066

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you; I had the same question as ReRe... There was no way the tiny screens were going back in (in a functional way). My old generators were sitting by the garage garbage can for a month, but I could not bring myself to throw them away. Glad I found your tutorial and look forward to seeing how the refurbish works.

Can asbestos cardboard be replaced by fiberglass mesh or ceramic mesh? Since they are used to insulate very hot pipes such as motorcycle tailpipes, and they do not burn. Do you think it will do the same job? Thank you!

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

I'm not familiar with either material. Many people use bronze wool or copper wire to replace the original tubes.

@josematy3249

Жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you! Maybe someone knows...

You appear to know enough about Coleman lanterns. My friend came across an old lantern and we are trying to figure out what model, what gas type, what globe was on it, what mantels (it is double) to use and how to make sure it is okay to use. How to disassemble. It appears to be a pre 1920's Quick lite. does not have a full loop generator or one of those little pin thingies. The generator is more of a U shape. In the center of the mantels. Is there any way I could send you photos? Maybe you can help us identify and get it back up and running.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

I'd suggest posting some photos to the Antique & Vintage Coleman group on Facebook.

This is a great video, however you had me a little concerned when you were rinsing the parts. I probably would have dropped one or two down the drain.

@squirrelcovers6340

3 жыл бұрын

His next video: How to remove a P- trap😂😂

Can one assume that the older asbestos equipped generators worked best because of the insulating properties and the ability to filter the fuel vapor? Pellam in Germany sells a kit for converting the Petromax kerosene lanterns to run with alcahol. This kit consists of a very fine brass screen to add to the petromax generator. Do you think this screen would make for a decent substitute for the cardboard tube in the modern generators? Having moved to one of the EU countries along the eastern Med, we do not access to Coleman fuel so I have been using a cleaning solvent of Benzene to run the two Coleman Lanterns I have. Do you or anyone else reading this know of any long term issues of running this for fuel ? Lanterns don't seem to have ny issues with flare ups or pulsing.

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

No. The function of the tube has nothing to do with filtering. Some have argued that the tube serves to regulate the flow of fuel and/or to regulate heat in some way. I find both ideas doubtful. The fuel tip regulates the flow of fuel and, when you consider the pressure created inside the generator as the fuel vaporises, I can't imagine how the tube can serve as a flow regulator. Regulating heat makes more sense, but again, you can replace the tube with bronze wool or a wrap of copper wire and the generator will work just as well. Consider that the R-55 generator, which is functionally equivalent, has neither spring nor cardboard/asbestos tube. I'm reasonably certain that the primary function of the spring and tube is simply to keep the cleaning rod centred. Both cardboard and asbestos get the job done. I haven't observed any difference in light output or pulsing between generators with cardboard tubes and those with asbestos.

@crabtrap

3 жыл бұрын

YES, the brass mesh works. the principle is not to 'filter', it is to slow the fuel passing passing thru the gen and also increse surface area for the liquad to vaborize. just today i ran a coleman 220 with no cleaning rod or spring....just a rolled up brass mesh; it runs as new (no tip cleaning capablity tho). to much mesh ans your lantern will run lean, to little mesh and it will run rich an 'pulse'. '#60 brass mesh' on amazon.

@crabtrap

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman YES, the brass mesh works. the principle is not to 'filter', it is to slow the fuel passing passing thru the gen and also increase surface area for the liquid to vaporize. just today i ran a coleman 220 with no cleaning rod or spring....just a rolled up brass mesh; it runs as new (no tip cleaning capability tho). to much mesh ans your lantern will run lean, to little mesh and it will run rich an 'pulse'. '#60 brass mesh' on amazon.

Hello there can we heat and quench also agm smaller generators the same way? Thank you

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

The technique will work regardless of the brand.

@outdoorseyfun9842

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman 👍 thank you.

Hey mate do you soak the generators with oil or petrol? If they are clogged.

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

No, as in the video I use a mild acid solution. If that doesn't do it, heat and quench to break up the carbon deposits.

Stupid question. On the small nut on at the end of generator, is it supposed to be a small hole in it? I can't blow true it or is it supposed to be just a nut that closes the generator.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

The bit on top of the generator is the gas tip, not a nut. Yes, it has a tiny hole in it that ranges from about .005" to .009" depending on the lantern model. That hole is the jet that feeds vapourised fuel to the mixing chamber. Because the hole is so small, the volume of air you can blow through it probably won't be noticeable.

What mantles do you prefer?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Old Coleman Silk-Lites are the best. The current mantles sold by Coleman are often derided. They're certainly not as sturdy as the old ones, although I haven't had nearly the problems that some report. Peerless makes good mantle, although their quality is down as well in recent years.

I've tried boiling hot citris, B-12, gasoline and vinegar. Nothing seems to break down the hardened carbon that locks in the wire coil and makes it impossible to remove without pulling it and streching it out, destroying it. Is there something that breaks down the carbon allowing easy removal?

@king.coleman

6 ай бұрын

As I showed in the video, heat and quench it. Two or three cycles will usually do the trick, but sometimes it can take a dozen, especially if it's an old, well-used kerosene generator.

@russelllinn7406

6 ай бұрын

@@king.coleman Thanks

my 414f stove works but wont shut off . After turning off it keeps hissing very slightly and after some time goes off. Any idea what wrong???

@king.coleman

3 ай бұрын

How long is "some time"? They don't instantly stop burning when you close the valve. The generator is full of vapourised fuel and can take a couple of minutes for it to burn off.

@danielyoung3083

3 ай бұрын

way longer than 2 0r 3 mins@@king.coleman

How do you make citric solution? Thanks!

@king.coleman

6 ай бұрын

There's no magic ratio, but I usually mix about 1 teaspoon of citric acid powder per litre of water.

@nancykrueger9014

6 ай бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you!

bravo - can lanterns be used inside of a house for lighting

@coltonwarner7886

3 жыл бұрын

Keep a couple windows cracked, carbon monoxide is serious stuff.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, they were designed to be used indoors as well as out. They're still commonly used by Amish and many others. CO isn't a big problem if your lantern is working properly. I've shut up two 236s and two 237s in my laundry room with a towel at the base of the door and a CO detector and after three hours of burning it was very hot in there, but nothing registered on the CO detector. If it's a concern, crack a window.

Can i clean Coleman 295 Generator like this also ? My generator seems unable to remove the needle piece (Step 1:41). Any advice ?

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

Yes. Since the 295 generator is designed to burn unleaded gasoline, I believe it's got a double spring setup inside rather than a spring and cardboard tube, but that won't make a difference with regard to disassembling it. If the needle or springs won't move, try heating and quenching a few times. That will break up the carbon buildup. Alternatively, you could try immersing it in carb cleaner for twenty-four hours. That often works as well.

@azwanfauzi

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you so much for your help. Currently im immersing whole generator in Injector Cleaner. Hope it works. If not, i need to burn it like you do. Thank you again. 👍👍👍

@azwanfauzi

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman And one more thing, any possibility we run Unleaded Gasoline mixed with small amount of Injector Cleaner, will it prolong my generator life before i need to service the generator again. Any advice ?

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

@@azwanfauzi I don't think it'll do any damage, but I don't know how much it will help. Some guys routinely add a capful of Seafoam to the fount when refilling and swear it helps them run better. I've tried it a few times and can't say that I noticed any difference.

So I inherited a model 335. It’s in great shape. Pump seal is solid with original leather ring after some oiling and the tank hold pressure. But I can’t get any fuel through the regulator and generator… I took it all apart and now I’m getting a little bit of fuel leak out of the top of the generator cap (or small top screw). Does this small screw in the top of the generator ever get clogged? It doesn’t seem to have a hole. The guys of the generator came out cleanly and seem to be operating fine with the cleaning knob. Any help!!!!! Maybe it just needs a clean?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

The generator tip (called a "gas tip") has a very small hole in it...about .007". The cleaning needle in the generator is there to clear carbon and debris from that jet. It may need to be cleaned. Check out my video on fuel system problems. It should cover whatever is wrong.

@ghmtchl

3 жыл бұрын

Ok, after watching your video, I can definitely say that the needle is definitely not coming up through the generator cap screw… Would just a citric acid boil of the generator components solve my problem? Great videos man. Big help!!

@ghmtchl

3 жыл бұрын

Forgot you were in the west coast, but one last thing…. What can I use as a citric acid substitute? Or where in Canada can I get it?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

@@ghmtchl The cleaning needle only barely breaks the surface of the gas tip, so it's easy to miss when it does poke through. The next step is to unscrew the gas tip to inspect the needle. It's possible that it's missing or crumpled. If it's missing, it's time for a new generator. If it's crumpled, you may be able to carefully straighten it, but that will depend on how badly it's been damaged.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

@@ghmtchl I get my citric acid powder a place that sells beer and wine-making supplies. You can but it from Amazon. White vinegar is a decent substitute.

Any idea what causes a generator to spit or "leak" at the top and then catch fire?

@king.coleman

4 жыл бұрын

Cold generators do that. The generator won't vaporise the fuel until it's hot. Gas (Coleman Fuel) vaporises at about 35°C and kerosene at about 220°C. The Instant-Lite valve was designed to provide enough gas for the lantern to light without flaring up, which allows a quick heat-up of the generator. Kerosene models require preheating with a spirit cup and alcohol.

@lancethompson3431

Жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman I've had one or two act that way and I found little critters had built silken webs somewhere in the distribution tee. I clean them out with with plastic zip ties that run thru and remove the webbing.

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

@@lancethompson3431 Yes, spiders and other bugs sometimes build webs/nests in the air tubes and manifold. It's always a good idea to inspect and clean them as a blocked air tube will limit the flow of air and without air you won't have proper combustion.

Would it be fair and accurate to say that the generators which have a brass spring inside a larger brass spring (kerosene) is actually optimal for all double mantle lanterns? Without knowing I've been running one of these in a dual-fuel and it's worked good, so far. Thank you for any information.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

The kerosene generators use double springs as a way of prolonging their useful lives. Kerosene produces more residue when burned and would quickly clog a gas generator. I see no reason why you can't use a double-spring setup in a gas generator. You can replace the cardboard tube in a gas generator with a wrap of copper wire and it'll work as well as the original. The size of the orifice in the gas tip is going to be of more importance. Kerosene generally requires a larger orifice (237 is a bit larger than a 236, 247 and 249 are bigger than a 242, etc.). You may end up with the wrong fuel to air ratio.

What is the point of the asbestos and cardboard sleeves? That part I don't "get".

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

It keeps the cleaning rod centred to prevent damage to the cleaning needle. When the cleaning rod was captive, as in the R55 generators, there was no need for tube or spring, because the rod was fixed in place. The R55 is just a hollow tube. In later generators the cleaning rod can be removed (or it can fall out when not installed on an appliance) and if there's nothing to centre it on insertion or during installation the needle would be very easily damaged.

I have 231 kerosene dual mantle model i need a tip of no 6 for the generator how can i get it to Sri Lanka

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

I believe 231 generators have been discontinued, but you may be able to find one online somewhere. If not, you should be able to build your own using the body of a 220 generator and the cleaning needle and gas tip from a 200 generator. As far as posting things to Sri Lanka...that's not my area of expertise.

@tajudeenrifkhan1367

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you for your quick response. I'll try.

Is that a 236 fount?

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

Yes. The 22E fount had a big dent on the rim and was leaking.

is there supposed to be a mesh inside the jet?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Sorry for missing your comment, Achilles. Yes, older generators typically have a bit of brass mesh at the top. That was back in the day when fuel wasn't as clean as it is now. The mesh can safely be discarded and it's usually best to do so. Trying to reinsert the cleaning needle with the mesh in place is just asking for a bent needle.

@vrr2201

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Soulgoodman. thanks!

I wonder if you couldn't put it in a zip lock bag with some solvent or something then throw the bag in an ultrasonic cleaner for a few minutes.

Doesn't heat and quench make the material brittle?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

Just the opposite. Heating the brass and allowing it to cool, either slowly or quickly, anneals it and makes it softer and more malleable.

I have a broken needle on a 1961 200, Can you still by one?

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

If the cleaning needle has broken you'll need to replace the whole generator. Cleaning needles are not sold separately.

@kevinrodgers1769

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thanks for replying, where can I get a Generator(part number?) for that year? are they universal for a lot of models? Ebay? Great video by the way.

@king.coleman

3 жыл бұрын

@@kevinrodgers1769 Generators are generally model specific, although most are used on more than one model. Old Coleman Parts is a good source. www.oldcolemanparts.com

@kevinrodgers1769

3 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Great thanks again.

I just took my generator apart and there wasn't asbestos or cardboard on the spring. I did get it at a yard sale so who knows or maybe it fell out on my bench somewhere 🤔

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

If it's kerosene it's a spring inside a spring. If it's gasoline there should be a tube of some sort. Depending on the type of generator, you can buy new tubes from Old Coleman Parts or some folks wrap capper wire or brass/bronze wool around the spring. Whichever option you go with, you'll want something around the spring to keep the cleaning rod centred.

How about vinegar?

@king.coleman

Жыл бұрын

White vinegar works too. I use citric acid because it's cheaper and easier to store.

Can I use MAP gas or is that too hot?

@king.coleman

2 жыл бұрын

Probably too hot. I'd stick with propane.

@benkanobe7500

2 жыл бұрын

@@king.coleman Thank you. Will do!

Is carburator cleaner a no no with brass? Definitely a no no with asbestos, I would think. There is always vinegar and coke a cola with brass.

@king.coleman

Ай бұрын

Carb cleaner is fine to use on brass. The active ingredient is methylene chloride, which won't harm brass. It's worth noting that a lot of carburetors include brass components. I usually use a citric acid solution (similar to white vinegar), but if the carbon is really tenacious and heating and quenching don't work, a soak in carb cleaner is a good option.

That is as nice a lantern as I have seen. In the states our 220E is a plain jane green model. Still pretty but not as nice as yours.

@king.coleman

10 ай бұрын

I've never heard an explanation for why Toronto made them in red. They did go back to green for the 220F. Those are funny too. 220Fs are incredibly common in the States, but the Canadian version is quite rare. Toronto discontinued the double-mantle lanterns during WWII and when they tried reintroducing them in the 1960s there just wasn't much a market for them.