Good quality Oil Lamp for below?

[Todd Schliemann]

I'm ready to get a new hanging oil lamp for below to replace my camp lantern. I have a wall mounted oil lamp but I need a more mobile version. The boat has a number of well placed hooks on the overhead throughtout so that I can move it about. I see so many on the market that I thought this cheerful bunch might have an idea or two about the better quality ones available.

The boat is a 34' CCA type cruising sloop with slightly less headroom than my 6' 2" frame needs, so this lamp has to be on the compact side, yet produce enough light to do that fancy rope work when I'm stuck below for a few days. I'm not a polisher unless I'm stuck below for more than a few days, so no need for a high gloss job. More interested in the build quality and light output for minimal size. A good size reservoir is also a plus.

[Todd Schliemann]

I'm ready to get a new hanging oil lamp for below to replace my camp lantern. I have a wall mounted oil lamp but I need a more mobile version. The boat has a number of well placed hooks on the overhead throughtout so that I can move it about. I see so many on the market that I thought this cheerful bunch might have an idea or two about the better quality ones available.

The boat is a 34' CCA type cruising sloop with slightly less headroom than my 6' 2" frame needs, so this lamp has to be on the compact side, yet produce enough light to do that fancy rope work when I'm stuck below for a few days. I'm not a polisher unless I'm stuck below for more than a few days, so no need for a high gloss job. More interested in the build quality and light output for minimal size. A good size reservoir is also a plus.

[Todd Schliemann]

I'm ready to get a new hanging oil lamp for below to replace my camp lantern. I have a wall mounted oil lamp but I need a more mobile version. The boat has a number of well placed hooks on the overhead throughtout so that I can move it about. I see so many on the market that I thought this cheerful bunch might have an idea or two about the better quality ones available.

The boat is a 34' CCA type cruising sloop with slightly less headroom than my 6' 2" frame needs, so this lamp has to be on the compact side, yet produce enough light to do that fancy rope work when I'm stuck below for a few days. I'm not a polisher unless I'm stuck below for more than a few days, so no need for a high gloss job. More interested in the build quality and light output for minimal size. A good size reservoir is also a plus.

[rodcross]

The Best:

http://www.celticpandc.com/miner%27slamps.nauticalwelsh.html

[rodcross]

The Best:

http://www.celticpandc.com/miner%27slamps.nauticalwelsh.html

[rodcross]

The Best:

http://www.celticpandc.com/miner%27slamps.nauticalwelsh.html

[Mike Field]

Frankly, Todd, I wouldn't get a hanging lamp -- they swing all over the place when you're under way, with potential for glass breakage, oil spillage, and so on.

It won't be portable, but I'd get a gimballed one that screws to the deckhead. (It will need both a smoke bell and a heat-resistant pad above it.) Den Haan make quite a good one --

http://www.weems-plath.com/productimages/8208A.jpg

It also fits higher under the deckhead than one suspended from a hook or chain.

You can import direct from the Nederlands --

http://www.dhr.nl/eng/index.htm

or buy from Weems & Plath --

http://www.weems-plath.com/productline.asp?pl=13
.

[Mike Field]

Frankly, Todd, I wouldn't get a hanging lamp -- they swing all over the place when you're under way, with potential for glass breakage, oil spillage, and so on.

It won't be portable, but I'd get a gimballed one that screws to the deckhead. (It will need both a smoke bell and a heat-resistant pad above it.) Den Haan make quite a good one --

http://www.weems-plath.com/productimages/8208A.jpg

It also fits higher under the deckhead than one suspended from a hook or chain.

You can import direct from the Nederlands --

http://www.dhr.nl/eng/index.htm

or buy from Weems & Plath --

http://www.weems-plath.com/productline.asp?pl=13
.

[Mike Field]

Frankly, Todd, I wouldn't get a hanging lamp -- they swing all over the place when you're under way, with potential for glass breakage, oil spillage, and so on.

It won't be portable, but I'd get a gimballed one that screws to the deckhead. (It will need both a smoke bell and a heat-resistant pad above it.) Den Haan make quite a good one --

http://www.weems-plath.com/productimages/8208A.jpg

It also fits higher under the deckhead than one suspended from a hook or chain.

You can import direct from the Nederlands --

http://www.dhr.nl/eng/index.htm

or buy from Weems & Plath --

http://www.weems-plath.com/productline.asp?pl=13
.

[Meerkat]

Southern Lamp & Supply (http://www.oillampman.com/) has the Weems and Plath "miner's light" style at 1/3 of the price of a site mentioned above, also the rest of the Weems and Plath line, fancy Danish E. S. Sorensen oil lamps and Dutch Den Haan Rotterdam lamps at bargin prices. (The lamp Mike mentions is either a "Captain" ($180) or a smaller "Cuddy" ($150) model.)

I have a Weems and Plath Model 600 Mini Yacht Lamp (miner's lamp style - $70) that can be gimballed or hung off a hook as shown. Someday, I'll have the boat to go around it! (N.B. the hanging hook on the lamp gets too hot to touch!)
http://www.oillampman.com/images5/600w.jpg

Important Note: SWMBOs should be directed away from this site at all costs ;)

Of course, if you want the killer lamp from hell, the Petromax pressurized lantern will output 100 watts equivelent of light (small size) or 400 watts of light equivelent (large size) and burn for 20 hours or more on one filling. Petromax lanterns run on a variety of fuels - kerosene, alcohol-based fuels, mineral spirits, citronella oil, gasoline, diesel oil, vegetable oil & almost every flammable fuel available on the market.
Survival Unlimited (http://www.survivalunlimited.com/lanternstove.htm) has them. This is the small 100 watt size:

http://www.survivalunlimited.com/lanternsstoves/petromax_images/150cppb.jpg

[ 12-18-2002, 05:07 AM: Message edited by: Meerkat ]

[Meerkat]

Southern Lamp & Supply (http://www.oillampman.com/) has the Weems and Plath "miner's light" style at 1/3 of the price of a site mentioned above, also the rest of the Weems and Plath line, fancy Danish E. S. Sorensen oil lamps and Dutch Den Haan Rotterdam lamps at bargin prices. (The lamp Mike mentions is either a "Captain" ($180) or a smaller "Cuddy" ($150) model.)

I have a Weems and Plath Model 600 Mini Yacht Lamp (miner's lamp style - $70) that can be gimballed or hung off a hook as shown. Someday, I'll have the boat to go around it! (N.B. the hanging hook on the lamp gets too hot to touch!)
http://www.oillampman.com/images5/600w.jpg

Important Note: SWMBOs should be directed away from this site at all costs ;)

Of course, if you want the killer lamp from hell, the Petromax pressurized lantern will output 100 watts equivelent of light (small size) or 400 watts of light equivelent (large size) and burn for 20 hours or more on one filling. Petromax lanterns run on a variety of fuels - kerosene, alcohol-based fuels, mineral spirits, citronella oil, gasoline, diesel oil, vegetable oil & almost every flammable fuel available on the market.
Survival Unlimited (http://www.survivalunlimited.com/lanternstove.htm) has them. This is the small 100 watt size:

http://www.survivalunlimited.com/lanternsstoves/petromax_images/150cppb.jpg

[ 12-18-2002, 05:07 AM: Message edited by: Meerkat ]

[Meerkat]

Southern Lamp & Supply (http://www.oillampman.com/) has the Weems and Plath "miner's light" style at 1/3 of the price of a site mentioned above, also the rest of the Weems and Plath line, fancy Danish E. S. Sorensen oil lamps and Dutch Den Haan Rotterdam lamps at bargin prices. (The lamp Mike mentions is either a "Captain" ($180) or a smaller "Cuddy" ($150) model.)

I have a Weems and Plath Model 600 Mini Yacht Lamp (miner's lamp style - $70) that can be gimballed or hung off a hook as shown. Someday, I'll have the boat to go around it! (N.B. the hanging hook on the lamp gets too hot to touch!)
http://www.oillampman.com/images5/600w.jpg

Important Note: SWMBOs should be directed away from this site at all costs ;)

Of course, if you want the killer lamp from hell, the Petromax pressurized lantern will output 100 watts equivelent of light (small size) or 400 watts of light equivelent (large size) and burn for 20 hours or more on one filling. Petromax lanterns run on a variety of fuels - kerosene, alcohol-based fuels, mineral spirits, citronella oil, gasoline, diesel oil, vegetable oil & almost every flammable fuel available on the market.
Survival Unlimited (http://www.survivalunlimited.com/lanternstove.htm) has them. This is the small 100 watt size:

http://www.survivalunlimited.com/lanternsstoves/petromax_images/150cppb.jpg

[ 12-18-2002, 05:07 AM: Message edited by: Meerkat ]

[Bill Perkins]

Does anyone use the Alladin lamps afloat ? I've been using a pressurized Coleman that's too bright and noisy.

[Bill Perkins]

Does anyone use the Alladin lamps afloat ? I've been using a pressurized Coleman that's too bright and noisy.

[Bill Perkins]

Does anyone use the Alladin lamps afloat ? I've been using a pressurized Coleman that's too bright and noisy.

[Greg H]

Here is a good place for lamps and other non-electric things.
http://www.lehmans.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgmenbr=12426&cgrfnbr=12844

An Amish web site

[Greg H]

Here is a good place for lamps and other non-electric things.
http://www.lehmans.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgmenbr=12426&cgrfnbr=12844

An Amish web site

[Greg H]

Here is a good place for lamps and other non-electric things.
http://www.lehmans.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgmenbr=12426&cgrfnbr=12844

An Amish web site

[ACB]

Agree with Mike - hanging lamps are trouble. You can restrain them with a "cat's cradle" of shock cord, but then where are you?

Having said which, an Optimus 1200M will be found hanging from a hook under the skylight on my boat - it's no longer made, alas, but very similar to the Petromax, without the tin hat shade. 200w. Fine for splicing on winter evenings. Only used at anchor; stowed away in the fore peak the rest of the time. Gets through mantles like nobody's business - the slightest knock and its new mantle time again....also occasional conflagrations due to inadequate preheating (never have this trouble with the Taylors stove, which runs on same principle....odd).

I have been told that Aladdins are unsafe for use afloat as they may flare up unexpectedly if tilted - since I dont use one I don't know if this is an old wive's tale or not.

[ 12-18-2002, 11:29 AM: Message edited by: ACB ]

[ACB]

Agree with Mike - hanging lamps are trouble. You can restrain them with a "cat's cradle" of shock cord, but then where are you?

Having said which, an Optimus 1200M will be found hanging from a hook under the skylight on my boat - it's no longer made, alas, but very similar to the Petromax, without the tin hat shade. 200w. Fine for splicing on winter evenings. Only used at anchor; stowed away in the fore peak the rest of the time. Gets through mantles like nobody's business - the slightest knock and its new mantle time again....also occasional conflagrations due to inadequate preheating (never have this trouble with the Taylors stove, which runs on same principle....odd).

I have been told that Aladdins are unsafe for use afloat as they may flare up unexpectedly if tilted - since I dont use one I don't know if this is an old wive's tale or not.

[ 12-18-2002, 11:29 AM: Message edited by: ACB ]

[ACB]

Agree with Mike - hanging lamps are trouble. You can restrain them with a "cat's cradle" of shock cord, but then where are you?

Having said which, an Optimus 1200M will be found hanging from a hook under the skylight on my boat - it's no longer made, alas, but very similar to the Petromax, without the tin hat shade. 200w. Fine for splicing on winter evenings. Only used at anchor; stowed away in the fore peak the rest of the time. Gets through mantles like nobody's business - the slightest knock and its new mantle time again....also occasional conflagrations due to inadequate preheating (never have this trouble with the Taylors stove, which runs on same principle....odd).

I have been told that Aladdins are unsafe for use afloat as they may flare up unexpectedly if tilted - since I dont use one I don't know if this is an old wive's tale or not.

[ 12-18-2002, 11:29 AM: Message edited by: ACB ]

[rbgarr]

Greg-

I agree... the Lehman's catalog is a wonderful source for low tech stuff that's especially useful on a boat.

A couple of the lamps among the thirty or so shown operate off propane, if that would suit.

[rbgarr]

Greg-

I agree... the Lehman's catalog is a wonderful source for low tech stuff that's especially useful on a boat.

A couple of the lamps among the thirty or so shown operate off propane, if that would suit.

[rbgarr]

Greg-

I agree... the Lehman's catalog is a wonderful source for low tech stuff that's especially useful on a boat.

A couple of the lamps among the thirty or so shown operate off propane, if that would suit.

[Nicholas Carey]

Check out Aladdin Mantle Lamps (http://www.aladdinlamps.com/), the world's brightest and most efficietn non-pressurized kerosene (paraffin) lamp. See http://www.aladdinknights.org/ for a website devoted to devotees of Aladdin Lamps.

What makes Aladdin lamps special is the tubular wick with a platinum mantle -- it's almost as bright as a pressurized mantle lanters (like the Optimus or Coleman), but without the annoying hisssssssssssssss.

Here's the current Aladdin catalog http://www.aladdinlamps.com/purchasing/brochures/Catalog0.gif

I don't know if they still make it, but they used to manufacture a wall-mount lamp with a spring loaded bracket (for shock absorption) that was designed for use onboard railroad cars. but it would be perfect for the boat.

[Nicholas Carey]

Check out Aladdin Mantle Lamps (http://www.aladdinlamps.com/), the world's brightest and most efficietn non-pressurized kerosene (paraffin) lamp. See http://www.aladdinknights.org/ for a website devoted to devotees of Aladdin Lamps.

What makes Aladdin lamps special is the tubular wick with a platinum mantle -- it's almost as bright as a pressurized mantle lanters (like the Optimus or Coleman), but without the annoying hisssssssssssssss.

Here's the current Aladdin catalog http://www.aladdinlamps.com/purchasing/brochures/Catalog0.gif

I don't know if they still make it, but they used to manufacture a wall-mount lamp with a spring loaded bracket (for shock absorption) that was designed for use onboard railroad cars. but it would be perfect for the boat.

[Nicholas Carey]

Check out Aladdin Mantle Lamps (http://www.aladdinlamps.com/), the world's brightest and most efficietn non-pressurized kerosene (paraffin) lamp. See http://www.aladdinknights.org/ for a website devoted to devotees of Aladdin Lamps.

What makes Aladdin lamps special is the tubular wick with a platinum mantle -- it's almost as bright as a pressurized mantle lanters (like the Optimus or Coleman), but without the annoying hisssssssssssssss.

Here's the current Aladdin catalog http://www.aladdinlamps.com/purchasing/brochures/Catalog0.gif

I don't know if they still make it, but they used to manufacture a wall-mount lamp with a spring loaded bracket (for shock absorption) that was designed for use onboard railroad cars. but it would be perfect for the boat.

[cdragon]

Todd,
A pretty nice bulkhead mounted lamp at www.windintherigging.com-Gimballed (http://www.windintherigging.com-Gimballed) Sorensen Ship Lamp. Don't know anything about it other than it looks good...might be worth checking out

[cdragon]

Todd,
A pretty nice bulkhead mounted lamp at www.windintherigging.com-Gimballed (http://www.windintherigging.com-Gimballed) Sorensen Ship Lamp. Don't know anything about it other than it looks good...might be worth checking out

[cdragon]

Todd,
A pretty nice bulkhead mounted lamp at www.windintherigging.com-Gimballed (http://www.windintherigging.com-Gimballed) Sorensen Ship Lamp. Don't know anything about it other than it looks good...might be worth checking out

[Todd Schliemann]

Thanks all, great help. By the way, I would only use this when at anchor or moored. Even in a bad harbor the swing of the lamp isn't a problem. One bungee straight down does the trick. The hanging points are well though out. There really isn't room for a permanent mount over head. One lunge in a seaway and it would be toast. My use would be similar to how ACB has described his, same way I've been using my old Dietz-like hurricane lamp.

Lets talk Petromax for a minute. Fine looking lamps. Perfect size and the light output looks just right, maybe more than I need. What about hiss? I assume they have that pressurized hiss thing that creates enough white noise to make your head ring a bit? The delicate mantle doesn't look good either, especially when it is sure to find contact with my head or shoulder at some point. How delicate is it really? Danger/explosive factors?

The Aladdin's look good also, but I haven't seen one that is compact and hangs. Anybody know of one that might fit the bill onboard?

Meerkat- I also have one of those small Weems and Plath "Yacht" lamps. It came with the boat, obviously a gift from someone who may not have spent much time onboard. It gives precious little light, heats up like the devil, and is a butt pain the refill. Looks good though. Probably more of a mood light than anything else at that size, LOL! By the way, hope you get a boat to go with that lamp, best of luck.

[Todd Schliemann]

Thanks all, great help. By the way, I would only use this when at anchor or moored. Even in a bad harbor the swing of the lamp isn't a problem. One bungee straight down does the trick. The hanging points are well though out. There really isn't room for a permanent mount over head. One lunge in a seaway and it would be toast. My use would be similar to how ACB has described his, same way I've been using my old Dietz-like hurricane lamp.

Lets talk Petromax for a minute. Fine looking lamps. Perfect size and the light output looks just right, maybe more than I need. What about hiss? I assume they have that pressurized hiss thing that creates enough white noise to make your head ring a bit? The delicate mantle doesn't look good either, especially when it is sure to find contact with my head or shoulder at some point. How delicate is it really? Danger/explosive factors?

The Aladdin's look good also, but I haven't seen one that is compact and hangs. Anybody know of one that might fit the bill onboard?

Meerkat- I also have one of those small Weems and Plath "Yacht" lamps. It came with the boat, obviously a gift from someone who may not have spent much time onboard. It gives precious little light, heats up like the devil, and is a butt pain the refill. Looks good though. Probably more of a mood light than anything else at that size, LOL! By the way, hope you get a boat to go with that lamp, best of luck.

[Todd Schliemann]

Thanks all, great help. By the way, I would only use this when at anchor or moored. Even in a bad harbor the swing of the lamp isn't a problem. One bungee straight down does the trick. The hanging points are well though out. There really isn't room for a permanent mount over head. One lunge in a seaway and it would be toast. My use would be similar to how ACB has described his, same way I've been using my old Dietz-like hurricane lamp.

Lets talk Petromax for a minute. Fine looking lamps. Perfect size and the light output looks just right, maybe more than I need. What about hiss? I assume they have that pressurized hiss thing that creates enough white noise to make your head ring a bit? The delicate mantle doesn't look good either, especially when it is sure to find contact with my head or shoulder at some point. How delicate is it really? Danger/explosive factors?

The Aladdin's look good also, but I haven't seen one that is compact and hangs. Anybody know of one that might fit the bill onboard?

Meerkat- I also have one of those small Weems and Plath "Yacht" lamps. It came with the boat, obviously a gift from someone who may not have spent much time onboard. It gives precious little light, heats up like the devil, and is a butt pain the refill. Looks good though. Probably more of a mood light than anything else at that size, LOL! By the way, hope you get a boat to go with that lamp, best of luck.

[Marvin Hamon]

My boat came with a modified trawler lamp with an Aladdin burner grafted on. I found the Aladdin to be a very dangerous item to have around. It had to be watched constantly when it was lit because it would almost always flare up after burning for 15 or 20 minutes. I tried to get it to work correctly and followed all the instructions so I'm not sure what the problem was. It also went through mantels like crazy. Anytime it got bumped it was time for another mantle. It was bright though.

I'll never let another one on my boat.

Marvin

[Marvin Hamon]

My boat came with a modified trawler lamp with an Aladdin burner grafted on. I found the Aladdin to be a very dangerous item to have around. It had to be watched constantly when it was lit because it would almost always flare up after burning for 15 or 20 minutes. I tried to get it to work correctly and followed all the instructions so I'm not sure what the problem was. It also went through mantels like crazy. Anytime it got bumped it was time for another mantle. It was bright though.

I'll never let another one on my boat.

Marvin

[Marvin Hamon]

My boat came with a modified trawler lamp with an Aladdin burner grafted on. I found the Aladdin to be a very dangerous item to have around. It had to be watched constantly when it was lit because it would almost always flare up after burning for 15 or 20 minutes. I tried to get it to work correctly and followed all the instructions so I'm not sure what the problem was. It also went through mantels like crazy. Anytime it got bumped it was time for another mantle. It was bright though.

I'll never let another one on my boat.

Marvin

[Nicholas Carey]

Originally posted by Marvin Hamon:
I found the Aladdin to be a very dangerous item to have around. It had to be watched constantly when it was lit because it would almost always flare up after burning for 15 or 20 minutes. I tried to get it to work correctly and followed all the instructions so I'm not sure what the problem was.Ahh...the novice aladdin user problem. Aladdin lamps behave differently than do conventional kerosene lamps.

There's two things that cause the problem you describe.

1. The tubular wick needs to be trimmed properly -- it must be a uniform height all the way around its circumference, with no high spots or threads sticking up. Unevenness in the wick alters the flame pattern and results in carbon buildup on the mantle. As you may have noticed the resulting flameup can be a little exciting. Wick trimming is an integral part of oiling the lamps.

Aladdin these days supplies a wick trimmer -- basically as circular plane that sits on top of the burner and trims the wick when you rotate the trimmer. I've also found a sharp scalpel to be a useful tool.

2. You probably set the wick too high when you lit the lamp. Normally, one would raise the wick, light the lamp, place the chimney back on the lamp and adjust the wick to get a proper flame and light level.

The Aladdin lamp behave a bit differently, due to the excitement of the mantle by the kerosene flame. When you light an Aladdin, you must turn the wick down until the flame is sputters and almost goes out, even though you'll get getting precious littel light. As the lamp heats up, the flame will come up, excite the mantle and the brightness level will rise amazingly.

You need to turn down the wick as soon as you start to see carbon buildup (or flames) on the mantle. It does take 15 minutes or so of occasional fiddling and attention before the lamp settles down to its usual quiet dull roar.

It also went through mantels like crazy. Anytime it got bumped it was time for another mantle. It was bright though.That's why they make the spring mount for railroad cars. Fragile mantles are also a hallmark of pressure lamps like the Coleman or Optimus lanterns.

[Nicholas Carey]

Originally posted by Marvin Hamon:
I found the Aladdin to be a very dangerous item to have around. It had to be watched constantly when it was lit because it would almost always flare up after burning for 15 or 20 minutes. I tried to get it to work correctly and followed all the instructions so I'm not sure what the problem was.Ahh...the novice aladdin user problem. Aladdin lamps behave differently than do conventional kerosene lamps.

There's two things that cause the problem you describe.

1. The tubular wick needs to be trimmed properly -- it must be a uniform height all the way around its circumference, with no high spots or threads sticking up. Unevenness in the wick alters the flame pattern and results in carbon buildup on the mantle. As you may have noticed the resulting flameup can be a little exciting. Wick trimming is an integral part of oiling the lamps.

Aladdin these days supplies a wick trimmer -- basically as circular plane that sits on top of the burner and trims the wick when you rotate the trimmer. I've also found a sharp scalpel to be a useful tool.

2. You probably set the wick too high when you lit the lamp. Normally, one would raise the wick, light the lamp, place the chimney back on the lamp and adjust the wick to get a proper flame and light level.

The Aladdin lamp behave a bit differently, due to the excitement of the mantle by the kerosene flame. When you light an Aladdin, you must turn the wick down until the flame is sputters and almost goes out, even though you'll get getting precious littel light. As the lamp heats up, the flame will come up, excite the mantle and the brightness level will rise amazingly.

You need to turn down the wick as soon as you start to see carbon buildup (or flames) on the mantle. It does take 15 minutes or so of occasional fiddling and attention before the lamp settles down to its usual quiet dull roar.

It also went through mantels like crazy. Anytime it got bumped it was time for another mantle. It was bright though.That's why they make the spring mount for railroad cars. Fragile mantles are also a hallmark of pressure lamps like the Coleman or Optimus lanterns.

[Nicholas Carey]

Originally posted by Marvin Hamon:
I found the Aladdin to be a very dangerous item to have around. It had to be watched constantly when it was lit because it would almost always flare up after burning for 15 or 20 minutes. I tried to get it to work correctly and followed all the instructions so I'm not sure what the problem was.Ahh...the novice aladdin user problem. Aladdin lamps behave differently than do conventional kerosene lamps.

There's two things that cause the problem you describe.

1. The tubular wick needs to be trimmed properly -- it must be a uniform height all the way around its circumference, with no high spots or threads sticking up. Unevenness in the wick alters the flame pattern and results in carbon buildup on the mantle. As you may have noticed the resulting flameup can be a little exciting. Wick trimming is an integral part of oiling the lamps.

Aladdin these days supplies a wick trimmer -- basically as circular plane that sits on top of the burner and trims the wick when you rotate the trimmer. I've also found a sharp scalpel to be a useful tool.

2. You probably set the wick too high when you lit the lamp. Normally, one would raise the wick, light the lamp, place the chimney back on the lamp and adjust the wick to get a proper flame and light level.

The Aladdin lamp behave a bit differently, due to the excitement of the mantle by the kerosene flame. When you light an Aladdin, you must turn the wick down until the flame is sputters and almost goes out, even though you'll get getting precious littel light. As the lamp heats up, the flame will come up, excite the mantle and the brightness level will rise amazingly.

You need to turn down the wick as soon as you start to see carbon buildup (or flames) on the mantle. It does take 15 minutes or so of occasional fiddling and attention before the lamp settles down to its usual quiet dull roar.

It also went through mantels like crazy. Anytime it got bumped it was time for another mantle. It was bright though.That's why they make the spring mount for railroad cars. Fragile mantles are also a hallmark of pressure lamps like the Coleman or Optimus lanterns.

[Marvin Hamon]

That's exactly what would happen with my Aladdin. Everything would start off fine then a little carbon spot would appear on the mantel and the flare up would start there. Mine did not come with the wick trimmer but I did try to keep the wick even with a razor knife. Even with the wick dead level it seemed like the flame would favor one area or another.

The flare ups were rather exciting and I was amazed by the amount of heat the lamp put out even when it was burning normally. Never needed a heater when the lamp was lit.

Taking everything into account I feel that having been through a number of Aladdin flare ups I just would not want to take the chance having one on the boat. Others will of course have different levels of comfort with the lamp.

Marvin

[Marvin Hamon]

That's exactly what would happen with my Aladdin. Everything would start off fine then a little carbon spot would appear on the mantel and the flare up would start there. Mine did not come with the wick trimmer but I did try to keep the wick even with a razor knife. Even with the wick dead level it seemed like the flame would favor one area or another.

The flare ups were rather exciting and I was amazed by the amount of heat the lamp put out even when it was burning normally. Never needed a heater when the lamp was lit.

Taking everything into account I feel that having been through a number of Aladdin flare ups I just would not want to take the chance having one on the boat. Others will of course have different levels of comfort with the lamp.

Marvin

[Marvin Hamon]

That's exactly what would happen with my Aladdin. Everything would start off fine then a little carbon spot would appear on the mantel and the flare up would start there. Mine did not come with the wick trimmer but I did try to keep the wick even with a razor knife. Even with the wick dead level it seemed like the flame would favor one area or another.

The flare ups were rather exciting and I was amazed by the amount of heat the lamp put out even when it was burning normally. Never needed a heater when the lamp was lit.

Taking everything into account I feel that having been through a number of Aladdin flare ups I just would not want to take the chance having one on the boat. Others will of course have different levels of comfort with the lamp.

Marvin

[ACB]

Thanks, that was obviously the "Aladdin lamp drawback" that I was vaguely referring to.

The hiss of a pressure lamp is irritating, and they also flare up, but so far as I know only during the (long and complicated) lighting process. My Optimus has a baby flame thrower called a "quick lighter" incorporated in it - it is a small nozzle that sprays a very fine mist of kerosene droplets, which you light first.

[ACB]

Thanks, that was obviously the "Aladdin lamp drawback" that I was vaguely referring to.

The hiss of a pressure lamp is irritating, and they also flare up, but so far as I know only during the (long and complicated) lighting process. My Optimus has a baby flame thrower called a "quick lighter" incorporated in it - it is a small nozzle that sprays a very fine mist of kerosene droplets, which you light first.

[ACB]

Thanks, that was obviously the "Aladdin lamp drawback" that I was vaguely referring to.

The hiss of a pressure lamp is irritating, and they also flare up, but so far as I know only during the (long and complicated) lighting process. My Optimus has a baby flame thrower called a "quick lighter" incorporated in it - it is a small nozzle that sprays a very fine mist of kerosene droplets, which you light first.

[Dave Hadfield]

Todd, it's just a thought, but you can buy a lot of Deitz "Air Pilot" cold-blast wide-wick lanterns for the same money. They aren't very grand, but they produce a 12-14 candlepower light and they are dead simple. Two or three of these in your cabin would probably suffice.

Other benefits: you can use one as an anchor light, you can use it on deck in the evenings when you don't want to go down below -- you can even use it on shore if you cruise to wild places. Also, since they look a bit plebian, they're probably less likely to get stolen. As I say, they're plain, but they work quite well.

[Dave Hadfield]

Todd, it's just a thought, but you can buy a lot of Deitz "Air Pilot" cold-blast wide-wick lanterns for the same money. They aren't very grand, but they produce a 12-14 candlepower light and they are dead simple. Two or three of these in your cabin would probably suffice.

Other benefits: you can use one as an anchor light, you can use it on deck in the evenings when you don't want to go down below -- you can even use it on shore if you cruise to wild places. Also, since they look a bit plebian, they're probably less likely to get stolen. As I say, they're plain, but they work quite well.

[Dave Hadfield]

Todd, it's just a thought, but you can buy a lot of Deitz "Air Pilot" cold-blast wide-wick lanterns for the same money. They aren't very grand, but they produce a 12-14 candlepower light and they are dead simple. Two or three of these in your cabin would probably suffice.

Other benefits: you can use one as an anchor light, you can use it on deck in the evenings when you don't want to go down below -- you can even use it on shore if you cruise to wild places. Also, since they look a bit plebian, they're probably less likely to get stolen. As I say, they're plain, but they work quite well.

[Todd Schliemann]

Dave,

Pretty much my thoughts exactly. It seems that the pressurized mantel type lanterns are too delicate for the use I will put mine through I think. The Dietz lanterns look just fine to me. There seem to be a few with reflector hoods also, which might help with output. Overall size is an issue though.

For the price the Dietz seems to suit the bill. Might even slurge on a brass version of the Air Pilot and let a patina grow, that ought to get some character into it. I'll get one and see what kind of light output she throws.

Fuel smell down below is another issue. As much as I like the smell of Kerosene I might O.D. on it down below after a while. I'll have to see what the difference is in output with Kero vs. lamp oil.

Thanks and a Happy New Year to you.

[Todd Schliemann]

Dave,

Pretty much my thoughts exactly. It seems that the pressurized mantel type lanterns are too delicate for the use I will put mine through I think. The Dietz lanterns look just fine to me. There seem to be a few with reflector hoods also, which might help with output. Overall size is an issue though.

For the price the Dietz seems to suit the bill. Might even slurge on a brass version of the Air Pilot and let a patina grow, that ought to get some character into it. I'll get one and see what kind of light output she throws.

Fuel smell down below is another issue. As much as I like the smell of Kerosene I might O.D. on it down below after a while. I'll have to see what the difference is in output with Kero vs. lamp oil.

Thanks and a Happy New Year to you.

[Todd Schliemann]

Dave,

Pretty much my thoughts exactly. It seems that the pressurized mantel type lanterns are too delicate for the use I will put mine through I think. The Dietz lanterns look just fine to me. There seem to be a few with reflector hoods also, which might help with output. Overall size is an issue though.

For the price the Dietz seems to suit the bill. Might even slurge on a brass version of the Air Pilot and let a patina grow, that ought to get some character into it. I'll get one and see what kind of light output she throws.

Fuel smell down below is another issue. As much as I like the smell of Kerosene I might O.D. on it down below after a while. I'll have to see what the difference is in output with Kero vs. lamp oil.

Thanks and a Happy New Year to you.

[Kermit]

I grew up with Alladins, and still keep about four around the house for those stormy times when the island's electron flow is interrupted. You almost need to get trained by someone who knows their quirks. The advice to keep the flame low until it gets heated up is essential. This means you'd best light up before it gets dark.

As to the sooting-up or carbon buildup on the mantle, it's caused by fuel burning outside the mantle. If you see it happening, you'll notice a wee yellow flame coming through the mantle. The blue flame inside is only there to produce heat, which causes the mantle to glow. The way to get rid of the char on the mantle after you've screwed up is to turn it down and let the carbon slowly burn off. One trick that I learned from a geezer older than me is to shake a few grains of table salt into your hand and throw it down the chimney after you've turned it down. I have no idea what chemistry is happening in there (thechemist--answer please?), but the rate of oxidation is very considerably increased. I've been told that this practice shortens mantle life, but I haven't noticed it to be true.

Don't EVER--under any circumstances--leave an Alladin unattended!!! This includes falling asleep. I damn near burned down the house once by falling asleep. These dudes get fiercly hot! In fact, so much so that I wouldn't have one aboard a boat. The hanging models need a bunch of clearance to the ceiling, and I'd be skeptical about clearance to the overhead for any table or wall mounted model.

I would look for a quality--probably European/expensive--lamp with a circular wick. They produce less light than an Alladin, but gobs more than the old standard flat wicked kerosene/pariffin burner.

D'ya 'spose there's a reason marine lamps evolved down a different path than lubberly parlor and chamber lamps? Ayup.

[Kermit]

I grew up with Alladins, and still keep about four around the house for those stormy times when the island's electron flow is interrupted. You almost need to get trained by someone who knows their quirks. The advice to keep the flame low until it gets heated up is essential. This means you'd best light up before it gets dark.

As to the sooting-up or carbon buildup on the mantle, it's caused by fuel burning outside the mantle. If you see it happening, you'll notice a wee yellow flame coming through the mantle. The blue flame inside is only there to produce heat, which causes the mantle to glow. The way to get rid of the char on the mantle after you've screwed up is to turn it down and let the carbon slowly burn off. One trick that I learned from a geezer older than me is to shake a few grains of table salt into your hand and throw it down the chimney after you've turned it down. I have no idea what chemistry is happening in there (thechemist--answer please?), but the rate of oxidation is very considerably increased. I've been told that this practice shortens mantle life, but I haven't noticed it to be true.

Don't EVER--under any circumstances--leave an Alladin unattended!!! This includes falling asleep. I damn near burned down the house once by falling asleep. These dudes get fiercly hot! In fact, so much so that I wouldn't have one aboard a boat. The hanging models need a bunch of clearance to the ceiling, and I'd be skeptical about clearance to the overhead for any table or wall mounted model.

I would look for a quality--probably European/expensive--lamp with a circular wick. They produce less light than an Alladin, but gobs more than the old standard flat wicked kerosene/pariffin burner.

D'ya 'spose there's a reason marine lamps evolved down a different path than lubberly parlor and chamber lamps? Ayup.

[Kermit]

I grew up with Alladins, and still keep about four around the house for those stormy times when the island's electron flow is interrupted. You almost need to get trained by someone who knows their quirks. The advice to keep the flame low until it gets heated up is essential. This means you'd best light up before it gets dark.

As to the sooting-up or carbon buildup on the mantle, it's caused by fuel burning outside the mantle. If you see it happening, you'll notice a wee yellow flame coming through the mantle. The blue flame inside is only there to produce heat, which causes the mantle to glow. The way to get rid of the char on the mantle after you've screwed up is to turn it down and let the carbon slowly burn off. One trick that I learned from a geezer older than me is to shake a few grains of table salt into your hand and throw it down the chimney after you've turned it down. I have no idea what chemistry is happening in there (thechemist--answer please?), but the rate of oxidation is very considerably increased. I've been told that this practice shortens mantle life, but I haven't noticed it to be true.

Don't EVER--under any circumstances--leave an Alladin unattended!!! This includes falling asleep. I damn near burned down the house once by falling asleep. These dudes get fiercly hot! In fact, so much so that I wouldn't have one aboard a boat. The hanging models need a bunch of clearance to the ceiling, and I'd be skeptical about clearance to the overhead for any table or wall mounted model.

I would look for a quality--probably European/expensive--lamp with a circular wick. They produce less light than an Alladin, but gobs more than the old standard flat wicked kerosene/pariffin burner.

D'ya 'spose there's a reason marine lamps evolved down a different path than lubberly parlor and chamber lamps? Ayup.

[Meerkat]

http://www.lehmans.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgmenbr=12426&cgrfnbr=12844 Kerosene and Lamp Oil
All of our lamps that use a wick can burn either kerosene or lamp oil, except for the olive oil lamps. This includes all Dietz and Aladdin lamps. It also includes our French round wick lamps, our Victorian lamp kits, and “Our Best” flat wick lamps. It does NOT include olive oil lamps, LP lights, or the Coleman, Petromax or Amish Table lanterns.

Whether you use lamp oil or kerosene is a matter of choice for each user.

Lamp oil burns cleaner and therefore has almost no odor when it burns
Kerosene is cheaper but has a distinctive odor that some people don't like - especially in their home
Some say that kerosene burns slightly brighter than lamp oil. It may, only because it moves up the wick easier than lamp oil. However, if you keep the font full of lamp oil (so the fuel doesn't have to move a long way up the wick), the difference is barely noticeable.
Kerosene is perhaps more readily available, although many stores now carry lamp oil as well.
The choice of which fuel to burn is yours. However, if you decide to switch to a different fuel after burning one fuel in your lamp, you will need to clean out the font and use a new wick. The two fuels should not be mixed. (Lehman's is not the place to buy lamps - they're more expensive then Southern Lamp & Supply mentioned above.)

On the topic of performance, quality, odor etc. this also might be of interest: http://waltonfeed.com/lamps.html

ACB; the Petromax has the kerosene torch preheater too. See the Waltonfeed link above for a pic.

[Meerkat]

http://www.lehmans.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgmenbr=12426&cgrfnbr=12844 Kerosene and Lamp Oil
All of our lamps that use a wick can burn either kerosene or lamp oil, except for the olive oil lamps. This includes all Dietz and Aladdin lamps. It also includes our French round wick lamps, our Victorian lamp kits, and “Our Best” flat wick lamps. It does NOT include olive oil lamps, LP lights, or the Coleman, Petromax or Amish Table lanterns.

Whether you use lamp oil or kerosene is a matter of choice for each user.

Lamp oil burns cleaner and therefore has almost no odor when it burns
Kerosene is cheaper but has a distinctive odor that some people don't like - especially in their home
Some say that kerosene burns slightly brighter than lamp oil. It may, only because it moves up the wick easier than lamp oil. However, if you keep the font full of lamp oil (so the fuel doesn't have to move a long way up the wick), the difference is barely noticeable.
Kerosene is perhaps more readily available, although many stores now carry lamp oil as well.
The choice of which fuel to burn is yours. However, if you decide to switch to a different fuel after burning one fuel in your lamp, you will need to clean out the font and use a new wick. The two fuels should not be mixed. (Lehman's is not the place to buy lamps - they're more expensive then Southern Lamp & Supply mentioned above.)

On the topic of performance, quality, odor etc. this also might be of interest: http://waltonfeed.com/lamps.html

ACB; the Petromax has the kerosene torch preheater too. See the Waltonfeed link above for a pic.

[Meerkat]

http://www.lehmans.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgmenbr=12426&cgrfnbr=12844 Kerosene and Lamp Oil
All of our lamps that use a wick can burn either kerosene or lamp oil, except for the olive oil lamps. This includes all Dietz and Aladdin lamps. It also includes our French round wick lamps, our Victorian lamp kits, and “Our Best” flat wick lamps. It does NOT include olive oil lamps, LP lights, or the Coleman, Petromax or Amish Table lanterns.

Whether you use lamp oil or kerosene is a matter of choice for each user.

Lamp oil burns cleaner and therefore has almost no odor when it burns
Kerosene is cheaper but has a distinctive odor that some people don't like - especially in their home
Some say that kerosene burns slightly brighter than lamp oil. It may, only because it moves up the wick easier than lamp oil. However, if you keep the font full of lamp oil (so the fuel doesn't have to move a long way up the wick), the difference is barely noticeable.
Kerosene is perhaps more readily available, although many stores now carry lamp oil as well.
The choice of which fuel to burn is yours. However, if you decide to switch to a different fuel after burning one fuel in your lamp, you will need to clean out the font and use a new wick. The two fuels should not be mixed. (Lehman's is not the place to buy lamps - they're more expensive then Southern Lamp & Supply mentioned above.)

On the topic of performance, quality, odor etc. this also might be of interest: http://waltonfeed.com/lamps.html

ACB; the Petromax has the kerosene torch preheater too. See the Waltonfeed link above for a pic.

[Kermit]

By the way, according to Lehmans, The Petromax folks now say that their lamp/lantern should only be used with kerosene. They've apparently decided that other fuels are too dangerous, and now recommend against them.

[Kermit]

By the way, according to Lehmans, The Petromax folks now say that their lamp/lantern should only be used with kerosene. They've apparently decided that other fuels are too dangerous, and now recommend against them.

[Kermit]

By the way, according to Lehmans, The Petromax folks now say that their lamp/lantern should only be used with kerosene. They've apparently decided that other fuels are too dangerous, and now recommend against them.