Army Vapalux M320

I thought I’d dig out my MOD Vapalux M320, as I’ve never taken it apart to see the condition of the washers etc, and if I recall it may have a problem with the vapouriser. It’s made in 1997, according to the base.
Seals from The Fettlebox(where else!?) were used, and I had a new wick with a brass band so I fitted that:



And the finished product:


When I last lit it, I recall there being a little bit of flame coming out of the top of the hood. This makes me think there might be something wrong with the vapouriser? I purchased the lamp as New Old Stock, and there was no evidence of it ever being lit. I will try and provide the money shot this evening as it’s not visible unless it’s dark.

 

If it's NOS/unlit. there shouldn't be anything wrong with the vapouriser. Did you follow the lighting instructions? - particularly the bit about pre-heating for 2-3 minutes and not over-pressuring the tank for priming (usually 5-6 pumpstrokes is all that's needed for pre-heating then let the lantern burn for a minute or two before pumping up gently to full working pressure - 70-80 pumpstrokes)...

Edit: Here's one version of the lighting instructions:-

Vapalux lamp instructions

I hadn't realised Base-Camp had moved to Peterborough. When did that happen..?

 

@David Shouksmith

Base-Camp moved about end of August, start of September 2019 if I remember correctly.

I followed the link you provided for Vapalux lighting instructions. Base-Camp quote maximum of 40 pumps or damage may be caused to the tank (after lighting and allowing for stabilisation). I personally can’t imagine being able to damage a Vapalux tank before your arm drops off!

Regards Jeremy

 

@David Shouksmith I purchased it NOS about a year ago and have used it a few times, always following those instructions. I’ll give it another ago this evening and see what happens.

 

I didn't know they moved - again! Is Mike scaling down or expanding?
It seems to me I have one of these, too. NOS as I remember. My had a two-piece shade (?). Have to look for it now.
Damn, the projects are piling up!!

 

Found it! 1975! Damn, sometimes even a blind squirrel stumbles over an acorn!

 

Maybe I was just imagining it:

 

@kw1998 I think you're right. Light can play tricks. This looks perfect, nice light and burning like it should. I can't see anything wrong with this gal!

 

That looks spot-on to me...

 

Pricker and air release open, around 3 minutes of pre-heating, close air release screw (in the filler cap) around 12 pumps to light (note* pricker already open) and a further 20/30 after 30 seconds.

Martin

 

@kw1998
Looks great mate.
It also looks like I need one of these too.
Cheers
Pete

 

I like it as well, and it's still missing
on my shelf.
They are around, but meanwhile very pricy.

Matthias