Hi guys, managed to pressure test my PL53 and no bubbles from the tank. Managed to seperate the control cock from the vapouriser. Got the plastic knob off and the retaining bit brass but the pin isn't too keen to come out. Don't want to force it. Does it come out? On checking the operation there is a part inside moving up and down which I presume moves the needle up and down. The jet hole at the tip is also blocked. Which cleaning solution would be best? Thanks in advance. Brian
Hi Brian, The pin on the control cock doesn't come out. It's soldered together. The seal under the retaining nut and the pip under the screen on the bottom are the only serviceable parts. The vaporizer tube advice I will leave to another.
Hello Brian, if the vapouriser is blocked, then it may be at the end of it's working life and the only cure is a new vapouriser. You menntioned that you removed the gauze filter, did you unscrew it? The knob on the control cock unscrews anti clockwise, as does the gland nut and the seal which is in the gland nut will most likely need to be replaced, Jeff.
The fuel feed tube which comes from the tank to the bottom of the socket for the control cock, can become blocked with muck over the years. I use tying wire to clear it, I shove the wire down the tube until the end of the wire hits the bottom of the tank. I do that as a standard procedure on all Tilleys and I do it a few times to be sure that the fuel feed tube is clear. Afterwards I wash out the tank, Jeff.
The link below shows photos of dismantled Tilley control cocks, you will have to scroll down the page to view them, Jeff. http://www.classicpressurelamps.com/forum/showtopic.php?fid/8/tid/2957/
This link shows more information on Tilley control cocks, Jeff. http://0flo.com/index.php?threads/3607
Hi John, I presume that you have the standard 5" vapouriser fitted? I have had some success with "heat and quench" in getting them unblocked. Remove the cleaning needle, using blow torch get vap dull red hot, and then quench in cold water. You may have to do this several times, tapping out the crud that is loosened in between cycles. If all else fails, I have a few spare used vap tubes. Steve.
Thanks folks. I managed to get the control valve seperated into bits and got the pip out. Will definately need seals and washers as all were brittle. The gauze filter was solid with crud. I'll try and heat up the vap tip and quench as it would appear that I've nothing to loose if it's past it's working life. The vap tube is a 7" tube. Is this different from normal or easy to get. Thanks again. Brian
Hi It may be your vap tubes internal pricker needle is worn on the tip ( IE not sharp enough to clear any carbon obstructions )& the vap tube is ok just not being cleared properly , check this out first & also make sure this is not bent up too much as they can get a little out of shape over the years of use Just a thought, Stu
Cheers Stu. The long needle is slightly out of shape and a straightened it. there seems like resistance so I never forced it any. I'm assuming that I should see light through the jet hole.
No you will not see light, the hole is too small. Put your finger over the top and push on the bottom of the cleaning needle. You should be able to just feel the point of the needle protruding at the jet, but often not very much. There should also be a small spring on the needle to push the needle back after pricking. Steve.
One step forward, two steps backwards! Managed to heat and quench and lots of muck came out. Managed to see the needle protuding through the jet and when I take a mouthful of water and I blow through the VAP tube it gives a steady stream. It then blocks! Have heated/quenched a few times. Should I keep going or what?
Tilley vapourisers weren't designed to be serviceable so most people just replace them when they fail. You'll probably get a new one on eBay for £15-20 so I guess it boils down to how much your time is worth to you...
Hi Brian, I would first try it when you get the seals replaced. It may just work as you are getting fluid through, so it may all boil down to the cleaning needle, and these can be replaced. However, a new vapouriser may be the best option. But, I would try it first; you could buy a new vapouriser, only to find that the burner is also a problem. This is what makes lamp fettling so intresting! Steve.
Sounds like it! Have sent email off to The Fettle Box and will get seals etc soon. Will update (ask more questions) once I can put it under pressure. Many thanks for all the help. Brian
hi Folks. Washers ordered Wednesday night arrived 1300hrs Friday. (Many thanks Spiritburner) All fitted and 'there she blows' a steady stream of fuel, stair rod straight. All I need now is a mantle. Pics to hopefully follow. Thanks for all your help. Brian
Hi folks, after a wee bit help here I have now managed to fit the seals/washers from The Fettle Box and with new mantles I now have light.
