How to Restore Coleman Lanterns
For more than a century, Coleman lanterns have offered quality workmanship and dependable service under even the most extreme circumstances. Built to withstand the rigors of the great outdoors, Coleman lanterns can offer many years of service, if properly maintained. For lanterns that have been neglected or unused, proper restoration is fairly simple. The Coleman Company offers a wide range of replacement parts and repair instructions to help you restore your Coleman lantern.
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Things You'll Need
- Replacement Coleman-brand parts, as needed
- New Coleman fuel
- Metal container to store and transport old liquid fuel
- Cotton cloth
- Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, wrench and wire cutters)
Instructions
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Prior to any restoration or repair project, drain all liquid fuel from the lantern. If there is dirt or rust in the drained fuel, clean and flush the fuel tank and lines with new Coleman fuel. Drain fuel used to flush the system completely and wipe out any remaining dirt or rust.
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2
If you are restoring a battery-powered Coleman lantern, remove the old batteries. If necessary, clean battery contacts and battery compartment. Remove any rust, corrosion or dirt. Replace any broken or frayed wiring or broken contacts.
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3
For gas-fueled lanterns, unscrew the ball nut on the top of the lantern, and remove the ventilator and globe to expose the lantern mantels. Remove old mantels and clean any dirt, rust or burn residue from the gas lines and burners. Install new mantels according to your owner's manual, or the instructions included with the new mantels. Replace the globe and ventilator.
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For battery-powered lanterns, remove worn bulbs or LEDs. Clean bulb sockets to remove dirt or rust. If damaged, replace with Coleman parts to ensure proper operation. Replace with Coleman bulbs or LEDs for best performance.
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Although the glass globes on gas-fuel lanterns are made of durable, tempered glass, they will break. Replace a broken globe by removing the ball nut on top and ventilator cover, and then carefully removing any broken glass. Replace with a new Coleman globe and reassemble the ventilator, tightening the ball nut to secure the globe.
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Replace any broken or worn knobs or valves to ensure proper, safe operation.
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Fill the restored lantern with fuel and burn to completely dry out fuel lines and check for proper operation.
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Tips & Warnings
Using Coleman brand parts will provide the best results. A baking soda paste may help remove battery-port corrosion or rust.
Old liquid fuel can still be flammable or unstable. Use caution when handling. Properly dispose of old liquid fuel to avoid fire or environmental issues. Defective valves can cause fuel leaks or fire.
