Hello ! First time posting, recommended by BernieDawg. I recently acquired this Primus 1118b at a thrift shop for basically nothing. Being mostly familiar with lamps, I was intrigued and started the Google investigations. After a bit of research I quickly realised- DON’T FIRE IT UP YET ! I replaced the NRV (grinded a notch in a thick drill bit as I didn’t have the correct size tool for the removal) I did a dry pressure test and all seemed well. More research regarding the fuel. White gas is not easily found in South Africa. Replacement was Benzine (Naphtha) Got some of that and again did a pressure test without firing up. Again, all well. Moment of truth- start-up! Preheated with Methylated spirits. WOW does she ROAR. A bit of fiddling with the control knob to regulate the flame and there she goes! Working great. With research I’ve got the basics of age. (when Optimus bought Primus late 1960). What I can’t find is how many of them (with OPTIMUS) branding there are. It doesn’t seem to be many as all I’ve seen are Optimus models. All/ any info would be appreciated. Thanks.
Welcome to CCS @PDUP That's a nice example of the 111B, congratulations. There is not much information on the Primus 111B. In the Reference Gallery there is documentation covering the years 1976 to 1971.
I have a Primus 8R, purchased new in 1973 (from Woolworths!). Not too many of those around, either. Though I would think the Primus 111B is even more rare. Basil
