Hi, it's quite simple; I did it before. First you would need to replace the generator: Coleman part No. 201B5891 will do. It has a smaller jet than the version for white gas. Second you need to mount a preheater cup. You'll find them occasionally on EBAY etc. To light 1 ml meth spirit will be enough because the generator is quite thin and gets heated very quickly. Good success, Martin
...yes, I'm sure. Using a syringe from a printer cartridge refill set I can clearly see the amount. 1 ml is enough at room temperature. When I used 2 ml it preheated far too long. But maybe the quantum will depend on the lantern fuel: I'm using liquid charcoal lighter which in Germany is cheaper than other kerosene, and it's a clean odourless fuel.
OK, it doesn't seem very much but I have to say that if I fill the priming cups on both my 427K Mounties (ahem ) the lanterns are lit ages before the spirit burns out. I've used BBQ lighter fuel many times in the past with excellent results. I usually buy it about now when the likes of Poundstretcher are clearing the shelves for the Halloween and Xmas crap...
In theory you should also replace the valve block and fuel pick up with a kero type because 242C has an air/fuel pick up. The gasoline valve will work with kero but when the generator is hot enough you have to open the valve all the way to shut off the air flow from the tank as soon as possible. Won't hurt at all but it will not burn right with an air flow. ::Neil::
I was told that I could leave the fuel air pick up tube alone because once it's pre heated enough you open the valve all the way at once. am I wrong??
Hi! I've converted a 242B and also have a 247 here. In my view there's absolutely no difference in lighting behaviour on kerosene if you open the fuel valve quick/far enough after sufficient preheating. The only thing that one must mention is the generator: If the white gas version is used, the lantern will not run very bright and have some flames outside the mantle, especially with a worn generator/jet. Best regards, Martin
No that is what I said. It will work fine like that. Mind you I have to ask WHY? Coleman made a range of pefectly good kero lamps so why mess about converting a gas lamp when you could just find a decent kero 247 or 249 to fettle. ::Neil::
Some say remove fuel/air rod, some say cover air bleed hole with shrink wrap or solder, some say do both, some say works fine without doing either. (the latter worked for mine) Here in the Colonies, the kero types are rarer than the 242 Coleman Fuel models, so converting is popular. Change the generator (vaporiser), add a preheat cup, decide what you want to do about fuel pickup, and enjoy the savings compared to the cost of CF versus kero.
In my opinion a straight pick up tube is the best choice No pulsing , brighter and whiter light After all there is a reason Coleman engineered It that way. Kerosene is much cheaper than Coleman fuel but Coleman generators will not last long when burning pure kerosene When you install a new generator ,at first you will get a very bright light, then after a couple of tank fills you will start seeing the light diminish and the gas tip will always need to be cleaned it's a continuous battle Unless you replace the generator often. Keep some handy especially on hunting and fishing excursions it's happened to me numerous times Not very practical it will cost you more on generators then the money you're saving on fuel. Unless you like cleaning gens on a regular basis. I would advise you to use a 50-50 Amish mix ,this will prolong the life of your generator don't forget that 247 237 249 models were made to use both type of fuels it's stamped on the collar -kerosene or gasoline only Clean gasoline was the better choice ,,,,even in the old days Optimus , primus or petro max are the real kerosene burners. Agostino
Hello Remember to put a clip on the frame to stop the preheat cup from sliding up and breaking the mantle. Coleman 335s are good candidates to convert to 339s(kerosene) as there is a tab built into the frame for the purpose of holding the preheat cup in place. Cheers ThomasL
