Hi all — ideas please. I have a Primus 981 I’ve been putting back into service. In quite good shape overall, but long since unusecd. Changed fuel cap gasket; made sure air stem sealed properly; NRV removed and cleaned and is functioning properly; soapy water test on all pressure connections & no leaks detected. BUT! While it starts up flawlessly and with 20 strokes burns intolerably bright — can’t even look at the damn thing! — within a few minuites, 5 or so, it begins to dwindle away, slowly at first and then more quickly. After 15 the mantle is orange and getting sooty. I’m unfamiliar with this lantern, so any suggestions — bad needle? Jet orifice? — would be helpful, because it doesn’t seem to be leaking air anyplace. Thanks in advance. Ulf.
I recently had the same problem with my Petromax. Once pumped up it would light up beautiful for about 10/15 minutes then slowly dim . I changed the main jet and that cured the problem.
Thanks guys. I’ve a new jet on order and will give it a go. I think I’ll also change all the old lead washers — they are in pretty crummy shape. If I can find them!! Ulf
