I have a stove (shown in previous post) which I believe is a Radius 45 and I fuel with benzine. The stove has in relatively irregular use but has worked reliably for many years. Recently I was not able to pressurise the tank to light the stove (after being out of use for a couple of months). Inspection of the plunger showed the seal was good. When I removed the non return valve I could not disassemble it and believe disassembly may not be possible. After reassembly I managed to get the stove burning but it was not 100% and the next time I tried to use it the problem had returned. I believe the rubber/polymer seal in the valve is swollen or has degraded. Any suggestions or ideas where I can get a replacement would be appreciated.
From the photograph it looks like you have an Optimus No. 111 stove. Optimus No:111 (all variants) + later Hiker & Hike Optimus 111 Hiker exploded view Non-return valves NRV repair.
2252V Viton cone for pump valve, all petrol lamps & stoves £ 4.50 2253V Pump valve complete, 111b, 111c, 111T and other white gas Primus or Optimus stoves £19.95 Optimus Spares Price List
If you look closely at the body of the NRV you can see a crack extending from the corner of the slot in the brass case. Your NRV will no longer operate correctly. The slot at the base of the NRV is not intended for a screwdriver despite its appearance. One approach is to grip the NRV body in a drill chuck so that the gripping force is spread evenly on the cylinder. The flats on the top of the NRV can now be gripped with a tight-fitting adjustable spanner. Prior application of penetrating oil or boiling water can help in releasing the joint. Best Regards, Kerophile.
Kerophile Many thanks for response. i thought it was a radius stove based on the labelling on the flame control spindle wheel. Good observation re crack which was caused trying to dissasemble the valve with a screw driver - fools rush in where angels (and learned) fear to tread and learn the hard way. 1. I note you recommend 2253 where the drawing shows part 2250. Is 2250 (parrafin) not suitable for benzine (where 2253 is)? 2. Do I also need to replace washer 2089? 3. Do you have any idea why the valve failed. Is it simply degredation of the polymer with exposure to fuel? Should the tank be drained during period of non use to prevent degradation.
Hi @kajon Please refer all questions regards suitability of NRV spare parts to Base Camp as they are the suppliers. Your stove is likely over 60 years old and looks to have had a hard life. The “rubber “ valve probably died of old age, and the casing failed when you used an inappropriate tool to dismantle the NRV. Best Regards, Kerophile.
Spares purchased from Base Camp fitted and after a bit of fiddling the stove is back up and running!! Input appreciated.
