anyone know about Coleman powerhouse pumps?

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sunndog

Full Member
May 23, 2014
3,561
477
derbyshire
Just got my powerhouse lantern out of the shed for a test run and the pump wont pump!

With me thumb over the hole it just builds pressure without transferring the air to wherever it normally goes
The plunger moves freely but it seems an air passage (into the tank?) Is blocked

Anyone had this before?
I'v taken the plunger out but couldn't see anything wrong so any help would be greatly appreciated


Cheers........adam
 

sunndog

Full Member
May 23, 2014
3,561
477
derbyshire
The plunger just needed unscrewing a bit. It was well lubed

Damn thing wont stay lit now though so i'm still fiddling lol
 

Robson Valley

Full Member
Nov 24, 2014
9,959
2,664
McBride, BC
If it goes out really suddenly, Dad always said it was dirt from some sort of corrosion in the gas tank.
I was too young to have the smarts to watch him fix it. We had several, from the farm.
I do remember him buying new pumps.
 

Nomad64

Full Member
Nov 21, 2015
1,072
593
UK
If you don’t get any joy here, I got some good advice on my lantern and stoves from this US based Coleman forum.

http://www.colemancollectorsforum.com/

They are a helpful and friendly lot but they do spend a lot of time discussing “turds” which are apparently a 1970s(?) brown Coleman lantern! Good luck.:)
 

sunndog

Full Member
May 23, 2014
3,561
477
derbyshire
Cheers chaps

It lights just fine but as soon as the mantles start to glow it goes out. Theres still fuel coming out though

I'll try some fresh petrol tomorrow
 

Nomad64

Full Member
Nov 21, 2015
1,072
593
UK
Cheers chaps

It lights just fine but as soon as the mantles start to glow it goes out. Theres still fuel coming out though

I'll try some fresh petrol tomorrow

Build up of “varnish” or other crud in the generator?

I stick a bit of carb cleaner in mine from time to time to help keep things clean when using unleaded but some people swear by panel wipe as a cheap clean alternative to Coleman fuel.
 
Most Coleman pumps lock the non return valve by turning the plunger c/wise, so to pump up you must first unscrew the valve 1/2 a turn counter c/wise , then pump with your thumb over the end as you described, then lock the valve shut before lighting.
I would avoid using unleaded fuel, it just gums up the vaporiser, and yes quality naphtha based panel wipe is a good substitute for expensive Coleman fuel
 
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