Gasoline lanterns

[The Heretic]

We have a 1954 Coleman lantern still. I will never get rid of it. I also have a number of kerosene lamps and several bottles of lamp kerosene. How long does that stuff last if unopened? We have battery-powered stuff for camping, but may break out the coleman this summer. It lives on a shelf in the garage.

Kerosene Shelf Life

Kerosene can last up to five years when stored properly. Here are the key factors that influence its longevity:

Proper Storage Conditions

• Container: Use opaque plastic containers designed for kerosene.
• Location: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Temperature: Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.

Signs of Expiration

Kerosene can go bad over time. Here are indicators that it has expired:

• Color Change: If it turns yellow or murky.
• Odor: A strong, pungent smell similar to gasoline.
• Sediment: Presence of mold or sludge at the bottom of the container.

Summary of Kerosene Longevity

Storage Condition	Shelf Life
Properly stored	Up to 5 years
Signs of expiration	Yellow/murky color, strong odor, sediment

If you notice any of these signs, do not use the kerosene, as it may not burn effectively or safely.

I've stored it for longer than that.

 

[DirectDrive]

One good thing about the demise of the gas lantern is the lessening of tree damage.
Lantern scars. Not many think about this.
Many times a lantern will be hung on a nail against the main trunk in camp.
Heat from the lantern damages the tree right below the nail.

On many western rivers (esp. east of the Cascades), alder trees grow in the riparian zone and these trees can be the only source of shade.
They are a precious resource for campers and fisherman on hot summer days.
They also help cool the river and contribute to the river ecosystem.
I welcome the new era of no more lantern damage to these trees.

 

[Mark W.]

I have one little Red single globe I run on either Colman fuel or Unleaded premium (no alcohol) As well as 3-4 pre 1950 antiques in various conditions I think a couple god be ran. The oldest I have has Mica panels instead of glass. They are something my dad collected adjacent to his collecting Railroad lanterns. I'll most likely pass most of them along here soon as I am trying to reduce clutter. I all depends on what the son might say he wants.,

 

[ma96782]

To expand on the subject of Kerosene.

May I refer everyone to the person whom I consider to be an expert on the subject of kerosene for lamps, stoves and heating. BTW, I've purchased wicks from him in the past and have always been satisfied.

Take a good look around his web site/store.

Miles Stair's Wick Shoppe

Aloha, Mark

PS........where do I buy my kerosene?

Star Oilco
232 NE Middlefield Rd, Portland, OR 97211
Open · Closes 4:30 PM · More hours
(503) 283-1256

https://staroilco.net

Don't forget to bring your own, "approved container".

 

[Angie]

It looks like paraffin oil will last a long time (perhaps indefinitely, according to a couple of sites). They all say you can tell if it's gone bad by the color. If it's cloudy or smells funny, toss it. Mine is probably about 15-20 years and still clear. It's been stored in a box in the garage forever. HOWEVER, I will pick up a few extra fresh gallons, just in case. I'm glad we had this talk.

 

[Spitpatch]

For those who threw out their Coleman-fueled cook stoves, they are easily convertible to propane with an adapter kit, return to liquid fuel instantly if needed.

For the last seven years, living in a wall tent for a full month each year, main lighting is still propane in the tent, since the cooking is done with it as well.

Led's for area lighting outside.

 

[Spitpatch]

To expand on the subject of Kerosene.

May I refer everyone to the person whom I consider to be an expert on the subject of kerosene for lamps, stoves and heating. BTW, I've purchased wicks from him in the past and have always been satisfied.

Take a good look around his web site/store.

Miles Stair's Wick Shoppe

Aloha, Mark

PS........where do I buy my kerosene?

Star Oilco
232 NE Middlefield Rd, Portland, OR 97211
Open · Closes 4:30 PM · More hours
(503) 283-1256

https://staroilco.net

Don't forget to bring your own, "approved container".

Toward the category of "if you count them, you might have a problem", I was prompted here to enumerate the Kerosene lamps in my living room.

No less than five. Quality of the wick can make ya or break ya.

So, thanks for the connection, Man.

 

[orygun]

Toward the category of "if you count them, you might have a problem", I was prompted here to enumerate the Kerosene lamps in my living room.

No less than five. Quality of the wick can make ya or break ya.

So, thanks for the connection, Man.

3 here.

 

[The Heretic]

On sale:

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[rrd101]

I like having a backup for my backup We camp alot so we use battery lanterns inside the camper and colemans outside I like the vintage lanterns A few years back we had a major ice storm no power for 2 weeks I was sure glad to have all the camping gear