I just bought and restored a Radius #17 I have a small leak in between the preheat bowl and the riser. There was a small gasket there when I took it apart. I used some automotive type gasket material and made one but the thickness was wrong then I went back and added a New gasket made from Cork and fused rubber. It seems to be holding ok I have only burned it twice since then and the cork seems to be degrading a bit. Does anybody know of a better material to build it out of? While I am taking up space I would like to know if there is a tool or a easy way to make a tool to get the check valve out of it? I am getting a bit of fuel in the pump. I am sure the check valve is a little dirty and would like to remove it to clean it. And while I am at it does any body know of the dating code on the bottom of the fount mine has a P on it?? Thanks Wade G
As regards the Non Return Valve tool, there are many posts on here dealing with this topic This is just one of them Do a search using 'NRV', 'Valve', 'Tool' or variables of these . For the seal between the priming cup and riser .. lots of threads on that too. Even by me Search for 'Calmonite', 'Washers', 'Lead' etc.. One product I have had some success with, are those blue coloured papery washers used in bathroom fittings. Bought a load of them in the local hardware store, the inner bore was too small so I wrapped some sandpaper around a pencil and 'entertained' myself for a few hours enlarging it . Then I was kindly gifted some 'Chieftain' washers and the problem was quickly resolved. Best of luck with the fettle Spudz
Give A&H a call, ask for a rebuild kit, they'll send everything you need. Pretty cheap, quick service. Phone 714-258-2525
Hi Wade The gasket there needs to withstand the heat generated by the burner, so neither rubber nor cork are suitable, and will give out in time. Calmonite is the genuine article, but hard to come by. Heat resistant automotive gasket material, or a lead washer is what you really need. I have a Radius 17 tank awaiting fettling, so would be interested to see some photos of yours in the Stove section. You may not need to remove the NRV, try removing the pump rod and half filling the pump rod tube with paraffin / kerosene, reinsert the pump and force some through into the tank. If you need to remove the NRV for the first time then a shot of hot water down the tube and / or in the tank helps loosen things up. If you need to service the NRV hold it in your NRV tool and open by holding with grips in suitable cloth to avoid damage. DO NOT try to use a screwdriver in the slot on the base, this will wreck it ! A small lead washer fitted under the NRV will make it much easier to service in the future. Let us know how you get on Cheers
