Went out camping and took my faithful Austramx 3/300 which had accompanied me many times but not used for about 10 months or so. Fired up ok, running nicely with plenty of light but after a while noticed the pump stem coming out and kerosene dribbling down the font. The NRV had failed. So every now and then had to pump the kero back into the font. At home fitted a new NRV valve and will look about for new O rings for the NRV valves I have. Winter approaching with possibility of blackouts so thought the Kayen AP2 could do with a test. Scarcely had got the lamp going when kerosene started to leak out from the vaporiser seals. Mad scramble for the pliers to give a tighten up which happily stopped the leaks. Also the pump washer had dried out, still pumped up ok but a bit of effort. Later gave the washer a soak in neatsfoot oil. So two lamps gave troubles after not being used for a while and shows things can catch you out.
I've just fettled the pump leathers on all four of my Tilley lamps, I just pulled the plunger out and swilled them round in 3 in 1 oil before replacing them. I did have to replace the washer in one of the NRVs as that was pulling paraffin back into the pump. But everything is fixed and working now, ready to be litted on Sunday when we have our soakses in the bath.
Yes, I have to say, a soak in the tub is perfectly complemented by the natural light and hiss of a pressure lantern. A personal favourite of mine. Though cleaning said tub thereafter, especially subsequent to a day's fettling. Well, not so enjoyable...
Oh we did, we certainly did, the only problem is the bath is a bit on the small side, even for just one.!
To be honest, this sort of occurrence is why I don't mess with Coleman fuel devices much anymore! That same problem, messy but otherwise benign on a kero device is potentially disastrous on a CF fuelled lamp or stove! I've still got some but I'm now extra cautious if or when I use them.
Likewise rarely use my Coleman lanterns for the same reason. In any case kero is safer to transport about.