Hi there, I am new in this forum. I got a Tilley lamp from my aunt but till know I could not find out which type it is. I would like to run this lamp. My one does not have this preheater, it is fix I cannot take it off. It would be great If someone could help me. Ela
Welcome aboard! Your lantern is a Tilley BR-49-A and BR., means British Rail and the link below shows another one, your lantern will have a date code stamped on the bottom of the tank. Tilley BR49A (7/63) Your lantern appears to be all original and that is a paraffin/kerosene pre heater which is fitted to it, they can be made to work but it takes practice. I see that you are located in Dusseldorf and there are other members of this forum who are from Germany and perhaps they will be able to assist you and this link shows the paperwork for a Tilley BR-49, which is the model before yours, but it uses most of the same parts, just scroll down the page until you see it, the library is only open to subscribers though. https://classicpressurelamps.com/threads/1955-tilley-cat.421/
You have a Tilley BR49A which is a British Rail version of a 246A produced from around 1961-1966 There is one in the Lamp Reference Gallery I would soak the wick with methylated spirit to preheat as the kero/parafin preheat is very smokey if you don't get it right . A video from one of our members may help (Better than most on you tube) A guide to lighting [/QUOTE]
That's a lovely lamp you have there, Michaela! I makes me wonder how it made the journey to Dusseldorf, what a fascinating journey it must have had.
Thank you for your answers. Yes, there ist a stamp 466XA. For me it is not possible to see the instructions for this lantern. Is there something you can send? I would need this mantle and possibly some other things. Which Kit is suitable for this Tilley and which fuel should I get? Sorry for all this questions.
That date code means April 1966, your lantern uses paraffin/kerosene and all of the seals and washers will need to be renewed and a kit can be obtained from the Fettlebox on this website and the link below shows which kit you will need. Tilley Washer Kit - The Fettlebox
Tilley 164-X or Tilley 164-H, but any large double tie mantle can be made to fit. Tilley mantles are often listed on Ebay UK..
@Michaela @Graham P I would have posted a video on how to light a BR49 but was hindered by the lack of such a model in my possession. If, however anyone has a spare BR49...... Good luck with your lovely lantern. I look forward to seeing photographs of your progress. Regards Jeremy
@Michaela Düsseldorf is not so far away from my hometown (35km west) And there is another Tilley collector in Willich with certainly good expertise. For fettling support.
Hi Michaela.Just out of interest.I live in belfast and my mum worked for tilley.In 1960's my mum went to work in Germany for over 3 years FOR tilley.I dont know many details or specifically where but they definately manufactured them in Germany also.
Top BR49A you have there, welcome and good luck, once you get used to lighting this lamp you will love it.
@Michaela Any news from your 2018 Tilley Lantern project?? If you still struggle or didn't dare to start it, You may visit my fettling workshop and we will take care to relight your Tilley.
