I'm new to this site. Thank you for having me. I'm trying to obtain clarity on when Coleman moved from type 1(high vent) vent to type 2(low vent) vent on the 237. I have a 11/67 & a 11/68 237 and they both have the high vent. I was told that by 67-68, Coleman had transitioned to the low vent. Additionally, both have month and year on the side on either side of the Coleman logo and nothing on the bottom Both still a work in progress. I'd appreciate any knowledge on this.
From looking at the book Duane referenced it appears all 237s had the high vent and the low vent only came with the 237A which was produced 68-74. The high vent appears on both US and Canadian 237s. Also, there are few hard and fast dates to changes on Coleman products due to the company's practice of using up all the old parts before the new ones. An example is the 501/502 stoves. When the 501 and 501a were recalled because of a safety issue, it was realized the issue was in the generator design, the founts were fine. Waste not, want no being the Coleman mantra, early 502 stoves rolled off the line with 501 founts, clearly marked 501 on the baseplate. For changes in a minor component of a stove or lantern tracking down the year of change is often challenging. Determining an exact month is often nearly impossible, although that doesn't stop determined collectors from trying. Welcome to the forum.
I can tell you this, the person that told me this wasn't from this forum and I'd rather not name names. He was one of those "I know more than anyone" types and I'm always right. He proceeded to send me all his 237s and how great they are . But it ok, I'm learning. Thank you. I really appreciate this information. It helps tremendously.
