Here is a Tilley R1 1935-40 Polished brass with guard and pre heat cover from Newcastle Coastal Lakes Australia I despaired of appearance with corrosion so did not use vinegar to clean, but with lots of effort, 000 steel wool and polishing the font has cleaned nicely with removal of lacquer, the reflector vinegar (diluted), 000 & polish. It seems to have not done a lot of hours maybe due to bulk fluff around filter sock. A new wood handle and brass lacquer will complete this As Received condition Graham :::
Hi Graham, you have done a fine job of bringing a lovely heater back to glory, i do not have a Tilly, but i have a Kayen equivalent, regards Frank
Hail Graham. My name is Captain Mike De Long. I live aboard a 58ft all wood trawler in Hampton, Virginia year 'round. I have two Tilley heaters, the R55 & the R1A that I frequently use to 'spot heat' the area where I am at the time. I am ever so pleased with their performance. I find the R1A will burn a good 12 hours on one quart of kerosene. I really like the look of the reflector in copper. The speculum that one graced it is probably better at reflecting the heat, though. In short, nice job. Thank you, Captain Mike in Hampton, Virginia.
Quite possibly, although the heat that isn't now reflected will simply be convected into the same space so effectively, none will be lost. In terms of Physics, the heater will be just as efficient. In practical terms, I'd imagine the difference would be insignificant...
