Trying to get my optimus to light. I've fitted a new needle and jet but the paraffin just seems to dribble out of the ceramic nozzle. I've tried double preheat as well. Any help with this welcome as it's becoming frustrating!!! Thanks all .
@swiss-paul Have you cleaned the vapouriser (generator) and its Preston loop? See here (it's a long thread): Optimus 300 help needed Cheers Tony
That sounds strange. The only way you can get liquid kerosene (paraffin) from the flame spreader is if the vapouriser is not hot enough. You say you double preheat, so that shouldn't be an issue. Do you wait to pump until preheating is almost finished?
Yes I waited to pump until preheat is nearly done. I'm trying to clean the generator and Preston loop then I'm going to try again.
Tried lighting again, it seems to make a clunking noise, air comes out of the jet but it seems like no fuel is mixed with it. Any ideas ?
First I would take it apart completely, and thoroughly clean all parts that are related to the tank, valve & vaporizer. In particular you should get out any carbon & gunk that has built up. At re-assembling you should also fit new seals. After that treatment you should inspect the jet & needle, and ensure that the gap between jet and mixing tube is correct. I got almost any lantern working properly after that procedure. Further you should ensure that you have a suitable fuel. Some brands of lamp oil or paraffin are heavy stuff that may cause problems because the boiling temperature is too high. Good luck with your lantern, Martin
