If this single burner in question is not in the "back packing" genre then for a Coleman single burner a 500 Speed Master is the ticket for gasoline. An 8R is a marvelous little device. The first time I used one I marveled how well it works. It got a 14 cup Revere percolator chugging merrily in about 15 minutes. The modulating burner over a Coleman back packer is another plus. That "tip cleaner modulation" leads to generator replacement from gas tip erosion.
kristian123 wrote: " I am just wondering, does the 502 centennial look very much like the 508A? And what is the difference between a 400 and a 442? " Hi, Kristian, The differences are, that whilst both stoves have fold-out metal feet, and similar appearances, the M400 has two levers, one to light and run, and one to simmer; and the M442 has only one lever, for light, and somewhat control the simmering of that stove. The M400 is a much better stove, in my long experience, and very reliable, if you use Coleman Fuel, which is what it was designed to run. The 442 is OK, but more feisty in performance, sometimes, and does not have a very good simmering control. I also would suggest staying away from any Coleman stove that was marked "Feather 400", or something like that. And, since Coleman no longer supports those older stoves, with parts availability, at least for now, be careful to use the fuels that Coleman specifies for the stove you choose. That way, you insure a long and trouble-free life to the generator. Hope that helps. Take care, and God Bless! Every Good Wish, Doc
I've got three 502's here, never was a lack of heat, or problems getting it fired up, unlike other stoves. To say they are as "reliable as anvils" in a gross understatement, IMO. Also has to be one of the easiest stoves to fettle, if it EVER needs fettling! If I had to be pressed to one stove, it's be a 502 with no doubt! Murph
Kristian in norway, your stoves and fuel availability i can't speak to. Msg i'm hearing for you, for Coleman, are reasons to consider 502 and maybe 400 / 400A. As to your question: ...does the 502 centennial (aka 502A) look like the 508A? and difference btwn 400 and 442 ? i'll add some info 502A and 508A (again, these 2 r not my choice. Y not 502? or 508 maybe?) ANYWAY, Ans is NO, the 502A doesn’t look like a 508A, the top half is different. as for 400 442 here's some pics w/550B tossed in (if it works 1st attempt):
If you're not a back packer who's anxious to shave every gram of weight from your backpack, find yourself an older Coleman model 500. Built like a tank, hot when you want, simmers when you want, reliable as ol' Betsy, as safe as you can get and will work forever with minimal upkeep. I use my 1939 Coleman 500 regularily and it has never failed. Stan
I only started with Coleman stoves a few years ago but I'd not cook in a small tent with one; I would use a paraffin/kerosene stove inside a small tent though when the weather is bad. There is a big difference in bang bang terms between Coleman fuel and paraffin/kerosene. Purely a personal choice. That said...I'll be using a 413G inside a big tent at the end of the month when on my first of the year 'winter' camps but there I have an extinguisher and room to leg it lol. Disclaimer: Cooking in an enclosed environment requires adequate ventilation, an understanding of your equipment and...an escape route
