I picked up a Coleman 236 in pitiful shape at a junk store for $10. I've been making progress with a new pump cup and filler cap gasket. New packing on the the valve stem (Teflon tape), steel wool on all parts and Dremel wire brushed most surfaces. Multiple tank rinses with Heet emptied through a coffee filter and reused until fairly clean, a lot of foulness but no chunks. My major problem is the original generator. It is obvious that some less than competent person tried to hold or tighten the generator using a needle nose or some such tool. This caused several issues. a very noticeable pinch point, a flat area about 3/4 of an inch, and a pretty noticeable bend. The bend i took care of almost perfect. The cleaning needle came out fine. However neither spring will budge. I would not be overly concerned but when I shot card cleaner and penetrating fluid in it major carbon came out. So I would like to do a proper cleaning of the springs. I have tied many things. Penetrating fluid, choke cleaner, dental picks and baling wire bent into a tiny hook. I am hoping that someone has an idea that maybe worked for them Thanks
You could try heating and quenching it, but new ones are available from Old Coleman Parts and the link below shows relevant information. Old Coleman Parts > Generators > Generator 236 Reproduction - R203
Thank you and I will try quenching. I've been to Old Coleman Parts. I am not disturbed by pricing but enjoy solving problems more.
Not so close up of pics would be better . Coleman did crimp/dimple some generators so they were made not to come apart , As far as the bow/bend that is typical after repeated, lengthy uses due to the heat . Just curious as to why you're trying to make those parts ? Should be easily found on eBay or oldcolemanparts.com and reasonably priced , not like a 236 is a rare or scarce lantern , Also a 236 is white gas and does not require a preheat cup , You would also benefit from an ultrasonic cleaner with citric acid the a cycle of baking soda to neutralize . I do everything in mine, including generators
I would advise getting a proper hard graphite or ptfe tube packing for your valve stem. I've had the 'pleasure' of cleaning out someones melted teflon tape on a stove rebuild and they were lucky they didn't burn something down when it failed.
