This example retains much of the original clear lacquer which although scratched, has helped to prevent too much oxidation of the all brass fount. A new seal in the filler cap and a good clean both inside and out, was all that was needed to get this lantern burning brightly again.
@ROBBO55 , A soak in citric acid (1 teaspoon of crystals in 1 litre of warm water) followed by washing in soapy water. Then, for the tinwork, I remembered a tip given to me by the late Bob Willard, who I met at the Coleman convention in 2004 (Wheaton Illinois). When the bristles on the wire wheels for rotary tools such as a Dremel are almost worn out, don't throw them away, use them for cleaning the tinwork on mica shades. When there's only about 1 mm. (or less) of bristles left, there's still enough to clean the strips of tin and you greatly reduce the risk of scratching the mica panels. You still need a steady hand and lots of patience though. Once I'd done that, I used Autosol metal polish on both mica panels and the tinwork.
Thanks @Henry Plews . I have a couple of mica globes in need of cleaning but wasn't sure how. Also haven't been game enough to try. I have several Dremel brushes that are very worn.
@ROBBO55 , For the tinwork, make sure to use wheels and not cup brushes. It helps if you can remove the rivets and open the mica cylinder a little, that way, you can get the wheel running lengthways along the metal strips. For the outside of the mica, lay it on something like an old towel (folded over two or thee times) and hold it loosely so that it can roll a little as you make your way across each panel. Support the inside with the folded cloth when polishing the outside. Where the panels overlap, "go with the grain" as it were, if you go side-to-side, you risk getting polish between the mica panels which is difficult to remove and discolours when it gets hot. Note : I've always used Autosol so don't know if a liquid polish e.g. Windex will discolour the same as a cream. edit: IF you can get away with it, just put the mica through the dishwasher. I've seen the result - it's impressive. Henry.
The problem with dishwashers is normally female. You generally need to make sure there are none within range when washing mica globes. Works very well though. ::Neil::
@Henry Plews I can't wait to see it in operation. I am bringing mine still in unfettered form. Regards, Jeremy
@X246A , That will be good. As you probably know by now, they have very few moving parts and the general construction is quite simple but there is a knack to dismantling. We can go through what, how and why I did with my example. Looking forward to seeing your example, Henry.
Thanks @Henry Plews for the additional advice. The dishwasher sounds good but at home I am the dishwasher
@Henry Plews I think you will find it in much the same condition as purchased. Your input and information will be of great help. Regards, Jeremy
