I picked up a couple Coleman pressure lanterns recently that are bringing me back to my childhood camping with my dad. I have 2 basic questions for the knowledgeable folks on this forum: 1 - What is the comparable overview of these models: a 220F (1971-top image) and the 288a700 (1987 - bottom image, without the glass)? Are they operationally the same? Same white-gas fuel? Just different parts? 2 - Where do you folks buy your Coleman fuel? Amazon appears to not have any stocked. Thanks so much for any help.
Hey Jeff, Yes, same principle; different method of getting there. It’s a case of finding a way of building something cheaper; just like everything else. The 220F was one of the last to use the time tested and proven fuel/air tube and positive shutoff fuel valve. The 288 and like designs used a redesigned burner system from tank to burner; running one without the guard can damage the internals. They will both perform as designed on white gas. I haven’t bought a gallon of Coleman fuel for several years; still have 6 gallons in the shed. It’s been hard to come by lately but Wallyworld and just about any store that sells fishing supplies should have some on hand.
In America its Crown fuel from Walmart , its right next to the Coleman fuel in the Camping aisle. www.walmart.com/ip/Crown-White-Gas-Camp-Fuel-for-Use-in-Gasoline-Stoves-and-Lanterns-1-Gallon/51741744 Coleman lanterns do invoke nostalgia for past times and its a WONDERFUL feeling.
You are lucky to have that available at those prices. In the UK it is reaching the point where you will soon be able to run one on brandy cheaper than coleman fuel.
You can get Coleman fuel at Walmart too. They also carry their own name brand which is chemically speaking about the same. I use Walmart’s brand only because it’s cheaper and I’m a tightwad!
Thank you all! I also have a Coleman stove, just like pop used to have, on the way too. I'm looking at setting up outside the Class-C so we don't have to stay inside so much. 2 more questions? John from Dallas above: Your answer includes "The 288 and like designs used a redesigned burner system from tank to burner; running one without the guard can damage the internals." Can you please expand on the latter part of your answer about running it without the guard? What is the guard that you're referring to? Thanks! And this one is more for everyone: Considering modern life is moving more toward electric lamps (which I hate the glaring blue emitted by the LEDs) have any of you experienced any campgrounds in the USA that ban usage of white gas for lamps or stoves?
The guard “heat shield” is the three legged piece above the baseplate. These designs used plastics inside both the valve and the pickup tubes. Excess heat doesn’t play well with plastics. I’ve had no problem with lamps as per rules at the local state parks; during burn season you’ll probably get a stern warning from a ranger.
You are right but it seems like for the Uk/Europe kerosene is getting cheaper than U.S. prices. Another plus for us is cheap propane . It makes running propane lanterns and stoves cheap. To fill my 20lb propane tank cost about $12 . The Coleman 1lb bottle is less than $4.
Some of the exterior of the 70s version lantern is rusted. With sand and prep, would you guys recommend using Rust-Oleum 7733-dark forest green to doctor it up?
@Hanzo here in the states I can get my 20lb refilled at Costco for $8-10 and get Jet-A fuel at my municipal airport for $4.50 a gallon
Didn't know Costco did propane refills, must be at their gas station. Yea I've looked at Jet A from local airports but was never successful in arranging access. Is Jet A safe to burn indoors?
@Hanzo I’m not sure because in winter months they add an antifreeze to fuel. Other than that I’ve read that Jet-A is more purified kerosene
All of the 220 series used the two-tube and rod FA setup, it didn't stop at the 220F. The 275 was the first Coleman to use a Schrader valve and plastic fuel pickup. Everything after (288, 285, 290, CL2 etc) used the new system.
I looked unsuccessfully for deodorized kerosene before buying some Jet A from our local distributor....$3.29/gallon. It has a stronger odor than the kerosene designed to be used in lamps, so I wouldn't advise burning it indoors. Other than the smell, it's an ideal fuel for kerosene pressure appliances.
I went to my local airport on Friday and they were close so no Jet-A for me this time and I don’t when I would be back again. Thanks for letting us the the smell is stronger than regular kerosene.
