Few days ago, I bought unused Bundeswehr Petromax form 1960 in great shape. Everything is OK but when I pressurize it, there is very small leakage from the jet. I tried to replace jet and jet cleaner and it is about the same. It will do a drop of kero on the jet in few minutes. So my question is, is this standard or do I have to order new jet and jet cleaner device? What is your opinion about double tie mantle and double tie mantle support? Thank you for advice. Jiri
I am not too familiar with this variant but on other Petromax lanterns there is a spring-loaded rubber washer at the foot of the generator that opens and closes as the control wheel is turned. It is likely that the rubber washer has deteriorated over the years allowing fuel to leak past in the "closed" position and needs replacing. There is a useful guide to restoring Petromax lamps here: http://light.papo-art.com/tech-n-info/Petromax_technical/restore_pmax_dissassemble.html The double tie mantle holder is IMO a waste of space. James.
James, thank you. Pump check valve is fine (it was lubed well), but I have to check that generator foot valve. Jiri
Jiri, These are fine lanterns. But if from a stock, so NOS, you should change all rubber seals. The one in the generator foot is the one that causes the leakage. On the other hand if not used I always let the pressure off. Double tie is a waste of money. My mantles never break from travel or normal use. Most of the time it is me not carefull enough. The same for the magic stainless steel burner to replace the clay one. Ok the clay one break when you fasten them with force or pliers but once in place they stay in place.
My next question is: I know how to set propper mixing tube distance. But although mixing tube is in the highest possible position, the gap is still smaller than should be (put a univerzal wrench between nozzle and mixing tube). But lamp is working fine. Is this a problem? Jiri
I can only quote Neil. I guess that the generator has a double set of washers, giving it some mm more height. Since you have an unused lantern all parts should be original although this isn't always the case even with nos.
Hello, I have replaced all rubber sealings in the lamp and there was still some pressure drop over time (from 2 to 1 bar in about 8 hours). What I found today is that lead sealing of rapid preheater is the case. So I replaced the last possible thing, pressurised the lamp and I am waiting ;-) About mixing tube distance, there is only one washer on generator but the gap is still smaller than "should be". But the lamp is lightning incredible bright (fine tuned by mixing tube screw) so I don't care any more. Jiri
Hi Jiri, nice video I hope you are satisfied with the Petromax as they are usually very reliable lanterns. Have fun!
Stephan: Thank you. Yes, after I replaced ALL sealings (including lead washers), it is working simply great :-) Jiri
Hello all, if you are interested, video of lighting Petromax with rapid preheater. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsZu6meojXE Jiri
