I picked this one up today (my first one), I think there is alot of work in it, but it will be fun. I Hope I can make it shine again. Can anyone tell me how old it is ? Best regards Thomas
No ‘P’ after the ‘300’ designation, nickel plated and not red enamelled top. 1940’s as a rough guess. @Nils Stephenson John
Hi Thomas and welcome to the forum. Your lantern is from the mid to late 1940s. Everything seems to be there so should clean up alright and work well.
Thanks everyone, its amazing that these old lamps still works, I will post some pic. When im done. What is the the Best for polishing? @Nils Stephenson @presscall @JEFF JOHNSON
People seem to have their favourites, but a diluted citrus solution gets frequent mention. Over on Classic Camp Stoves long-time fettler Kerophile makes up a mix of wallpaper paste with the dluted citric acid and applies it to components to take effect over an hour or two, then rinsed off with warm water. Personally, I first strip a lantern or stove down to component parts and wash them in a warm, mild detergent solution, often using an ultrasonic cleaning machine. Whatever residue is left is removed with the wallpaper paste laced with citric acid. For final polishing the usual tip is to avoid cleaning liquids or pastes containing ammonia (not good for brass) and those that are significantly abrasive. John
It helps if the folds are evenly spaced but basically, plenty of pressure. Because your lantern is an Optimus, you should be able to pump it until your thumb hurts.
@Henry Plews you where right new mantle and more pressure, and it runs perfect....thanks Best regards Thomas
@Grundsoe Congratulations, it feels really good when you get an old lantern running well. Regards, Jeremy
