How to Remove a Coleman Check Valve From a Lamp, Lantern or Stove, and Three Ways to Do It

Old Town Coleman does a deep dive into the miserable lantern and stove check valve! Learn how to clean it without removing it, plus 3 different ways to remove it. Video also includes instruction on rebuilding the 242/242A NRV, plus a guest appearance by momma moose.
Frank is a former Coleman Factory Warranty Center owner, trained at the Coleman Factory in Wichita, Kansas. He brings some of what he learned at "Coleman School" to you in this teaching video. He is a long-time collector and former owner of the #1 selling Coleman parts dealership in the world, and has authored nearly all of the Coleman repair instructions you find on the web today. His "Safety First" instructions with the ominous black widow spider is a real life warning read by thousands. Follow him for all the tips and tricks of the trade he has learned along the way. You can find even more at www.oldtowncoleman.com
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[@dennismontgomery8290]

Frank always has the best videos he leads you through step by step with the best method with clear instructions keep up the great work

[@Krankie_V]

I have tried many times to clean leaking check valves but it hasnt worked for me even once. I ended up buying a bunch of new ones and just replacing them all. The check valve tool is a godsend.

[@BrianKeithPREPPER]

Thanks for This video and information! I used Your first way to get the check valve out, I found a big flat head screw driver, cut the tip down to a wider edge, used a pair of channel locks and my Table Vice... WALLA!! Finally got it out and it isn't warped, thank God! Now I have it soaking in Carb Cleaner. The Ball knocks around, makes sound, however it doesn't properly seal with pressure behind it like it should. I picked up on FB Marketplace, 4 Lanterns and a Stove, 40.00. All was badly taken care of. I have restored ALL the lanterns, done with them, now I'm working on the stove restoring it. The check valve was the worst problem to fix but doing it now. P.S.. One of the Lanterns I got ahold of, is a mark " 8 ... 6 " Manufacture date. Did research on it.. Other lanterns found like it on the internet shows, it was made in AUGUST 1943. :O WoW!! I have an 80 yr old Lantern lol :D and now.. IT WORKS FULLY AGAIN! :D Piece of history! Anyways, Great info channel! :)

[@HighSierraBob]

Nice work. I just got 3 lanterns and a 502 stove that I'm working on. Old stuff is cool.

[@FarmassR6]

I found instead of a large screw driver, if you take a 1/2 spade drill bit and break the tip off it fits the check valve really well. Then with the 1/4" shank you can put a wrench or a socket on the end.

[@Krankie_V]

To aid in turning your screw extractors, you can use a set of tap sockets. There will be one in the set which fits perfectly.

[@P61guy61]

Awesome video. Thank you for posting.

[@johndonato6844]

Watching these videos is like going to trade school. These are AWESOME!!!

[@philiptruitt]

Thanks Frank!

[@urbanmerc1]

Sure glad i came across your channel. Thanks for the awsome content.

[@kurtak9452]

Excellent instructional video...Thanks

[@krashvictim]

THX, for all the great info.

[@frequency79]

I really enjoy watching and learning your videos , thank you so much 👏👏👏

[@williambell2188]

Very good info,thanks.

[@mdenny6044]

Another excellent video, Sir. Thank you

[@OldTownColeman]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@jmfa57]

Method #4: Drain your lantern, package it up, and return to Coleman. For a ridiculously small fee ($55 I think) they repaired my old 242, replacing the check valve and generator, plus to my surprise, the clean up the fount (tank) and the rest of the lantern, and shipped it back to me. I was DELIGHTED. I got the idea from your videos, Frank, thank you! This old 1949 lantern looks and works better than it ever did for the 45 years I have had it. Thanks also for yet another great video!

[@jdj5952]

Is Coleman still offering this service? Growing up a local sporting goods stores was a Coleman authorized repair center. We always just took our stuff there. Unfortunately that store is now a KFC.

[@OldTownColeman]

Yes they are. Go to my website and you'll find the link to Coleman on my rebuilding front pages.

[@OldTownColeman]

Yes, $55 is quite a bargain. And they do great work too.

[@WiseOne6969]

Thanks! I'm cleaning and rebuilding a model 220 built in 1957 and your video is a great help. I appreciate the time you put into it. I loved the moose distraction too. Take care.

[@stevelyncha1590]

Nice Job as usual, enjoy all the knowledge I have learn from you.

[@OldTownColeman]

Thank you Steve, I appreciate your support.

[@Sjackson2369]

Very nice video. I think I will be ordering one of those check valve removal tools for myself

[@lancethompson3431]

I finally broke down and bought the special removal tool. One of the best investments I ever made. They make a very difficult job a snap. It pays for itself in valves removed and cleaned without damaging or destroying them. Usually a few shots of Carb cleaner on the valve from both sides gets them back in working order.

[@may2888]

Great job as usual!

[@OldTownColeman]

Thank you!

[@JerkRice]

This video is so helpful. I love your channel. Keep up the great content.

[@OldTownColeman]

Thank you, and will do!

[@GeorgePaul-dz9bi]

Thank you for sharing. It’s not complicated, but really helps to know exactly how it’s put together without guesswork.

[@ScanMy2DBarcode]

I picked up a 414 stove (for $15!!) which had a bad leak in the check valve. Carb cleaner (4:50) fixed it! Thank you! From the way the fuel smelled and the rust in the tank, I bet the stove hasn't burned for a decade or more. After replacing the damaged & clogged generator, the stove works so nicely!

[@billmoody9736]

This info is gold - thanks -nuff said.

[@OldTownColeman]

Glad you like it Bill and thanks a million for watching!

[@jamesjamison4005]

Awesome video! You just help me with a problem I was haveing with a 220 check valve sticking. I done the the test you did and it failed. I was able to remove it and done what you said with carb cleaner. The valve was stuck open and after cleaning it now it works great. Thank you.

[@gregoffenback6910]

I bought a check valve removal tool last winter on your suggestion. It works great. I love watching your videos, thanks.

[@OldTownColeman]

My pleasure Greg!

[@sandygap1]

Great video. I have this problem with my lantern. Thanks so much. BTW great shot of the humming bird, and oh ya the moose.

[@OldTownColeman]

Cool when those things get in your way! Always glad to help...

[@1uptospeed]

very detailed i had to subscrib

[@Nester336]

Thank you for another awesome video! I have a 200A my dad gave me and the check valve is gummed up on it.

[@chocolategourmand]

Great video! Very thorough and informative. I’ve been meaning to get the special tool. I’d love to see a video on cleaning out old rusty founts/tanks.

[@OldTownColeman]

That is a video I plan on doing in the future, for sure. I have put quite a bit of thought into it.

[@thermalreboot]

Dangerous business dealing with rusty founts. If it's minor surface rust fill it with vinegar and let it sit overnight. If you plan on doing a bunch a mix of citric acid and hot water works great. The acid in the vinegar and citric acid mix breaks down the bonds in the rust making it easy to rinse out. However, if the material is flaking and you have pock marks from rust, convert it to electric or make it a display piece at Cracker barrel. Never trust a badly rusted pressure vessel.

[@bertushd]

Thank you so much for this clear video. Using for more than 30 year a Coleman Mulitfuel I purchased also an other one, which has a checkvalve problem. Never knew how it all works. Till now. Btw, my first Coleman still working fine - the most reliable stove ever.

[@charlesward8196]

I spent the afternoon building a check valve removal tool. I learned previously that the thread for the large check valve stem was 1/4”x32 and bought the threading die for that. I had a spare check valve from my Coleman Feather 442 Dual Fuel stove, and the thread in the small check valve stem is 8-32. I made rods for each of those for my removal tool so I am covered for all three of my appliances.

[@geraldbailey4916]

Great video, Frank! On your advice, I bought a removal tool last year, and it has saved a lot of check valves.

[@OldTownColeman]

Yes sir, it sure does a great job. No more "hoping" that it comes out!

[@SALTYCOMBATDIVER-ExInstructor]

Great videos! Love my Colemans, want the tools but they are out of stock. I'll keep checking or make one (I occasionally have access to a machine shop).

[@justjayok1]

Great video. Removed my first stubborn valve a couple weeks ago thanks to you. Finally have the proper tools and knowledge to repair instead of replace! Scored a mint ‘57 200a with a frozen check for $15 last week. Took 1 minute to pull the check, 15 minute soak in acetone, couple taps on the workbench, dropped the original check back in, and she’s good as new!

[@OldTownColeman]

Awesome, that's what we like to hear!

[@901ronnie]

Love your video’s and cannot wait till the next. I have a small collection of two mantel lamps and 8 stoves 3-2-1 burners. All are keepsakes from my dad and his brother. Except my wife and my birthday lanterns 1952 and 1958. Are you going to do any videos on stoves? I cannot thank you enough - the forums are great but trained first hand knowledge clearly illustrated and demonstrated are wonderful. I used to direct and edit programs in college in the 70’s so I know this is much harder than it looks. The easier you make it look the more work you put into it. Thank you seems small reward for what you are doing. Keep up the great work - I am sure there are thousands more who appreciate what you have done and continue to do over the last 20 or so years.

[@OldTownColeman]

Thank you so much, and yes sir on the stoves. I have a 502 and 500A ready for video (this week if I can) and about three 2-3 burner stoves I will be rebuilding for a video. Coming very soon.

[@gnohn9366]

Great ideas thank you. I tried grinding down an old spade but to fit in the slot, but it didn’t work. Will try the carb cleaner for a while.

[@OldTownColeman]

Good luck! email [e-mail] if you have problems.

[@huskyvoice3]

It wasn’t distraction! It’s kind my dream to watch those wild animals from my house. All what I can see in my yard are squeals and hares. Great video, too.

[@OldTownColeman]

She sure was a cutie. Obviously a young moose. One day we had 2 bulls, a cow and two calves in the yard. The boys were playfully tussling over the lady. About 15' from the back door--what a cool day that was!

[@rutledgeridings6547]

Thank you for your information I got a 30 year old backpacker stove that leaks and I got a new 533 that doesn’t work. I’m looking through your stuff to try to figure out how to make it work. It won’t pump to hold the pressure.

[@crabtrap]

i switched over to Seafoam from carb cleaner years ago. it desolves varnish and lubes at the same time, and is mostly made from Naptha and shale oil. another trick is to set fount in ultrasonic tank for afew cycles to loosen checkvalve. Seafoam is good moose repellent too! j/k

[@OldTownColeman]

I've not tried Seafoam yet. But need to.

[@brandonmiller3978]

I have a 427 Quicklite that had a badly leaking check valve. Monday I discovered it and started soaking it in carb cleaner (no slot in this check valve, so no way to remove it, without removing the tube). Two days of carb cleaner soak, and it was still leaking. Yesterday after work I switched over to Seafoam. This morning it was still leaking. When I came home at lunch it held pressure. Seafoam did the trick!

[@crabtrap]

@@brandonmiller3978 ya the thin shale oil in Seafoam is the key. carb cleaner is great but it strip ALL forms of oils from the threads, much like brake cleaner does. i would bet that had you sprayed PB blaster or wd 40 AFTER the carb cleaner soak....it would have freed up too. but Seafoam and its DeepCreep brand pene oils are great!

[@kenc5156]

Trust the Plan.... Having a recently acquired Mil-Spec Lantern, I found the pump stem was not screwed in and that was because someone tried to remove the check valve and broke half of it off. These lanterns have the large valve. Looking at the #5 extractor I thought that was certainly too large. After trying a smaller one and failing, I went ahead and tried the #5. Worked like a charm. In fact the valve came out so easily IDK how someone broke it. Side note, another thing I found was in the fount. In there was not only a lot of gunk, but also the red plastic spray tip from a can of whatever the person was spraying in there to clean the gunk.

[@Cornbreadfed420]

Im having trouble with my colman northstar.. its over 20 yrs old and now its only burning the top of the mantle.

[@orangecr-v7075]

thank you i have the Coleman 250A935 = Colmax 300 cp 333G , made in USA code A 1950 . i will restore soon and checking the parts.

[@wyattsdad8561]

Thank you for making this video! you saved me from using a screw driver that was too small. I tried it before i watched your vid and realized how tight that valve is and so I stopped. My lantern doesn’t pump up enough pressure. It pumps up but not like it used to. I replaced the leather pump cup and even swapped caps from another one of my lanterns and it didn’t make a difference. I don’t know if the check valve is bad but I think that’s my issue. I’m basing this assumption on how it won’t pump up enough to where it gets hard to pump or get as bright as it should. The lantern never gets to its full brightness it should have and the pump pressure doesn’t change. The thumb pressure remains the same pressure no matter what. If you have a chance could you tell me what you think I should try next? I would sure appreciate it. Thanks man

[@MattKnowsThat]

Troubleshooting and trying not to do a total rebuild: my 200A blows out the match when trying to light. So I assume it’s not getting any fuel. Clean the fuel and air tube? Thanks for all your videos!

[@afmaldonado1399]

Great video I had to use the method with the screw extractor. Very stubborn valve. What’s the easiest way to clean all the brass residue that’s left? Thanks

[@UltraMagaFan]

I just skipped the screwdriver all together. I knew this thing was going to be stuck because I was working on a 1976 lantern that has never been taken apart before. I ended up using the screw extractor and it worked fantastically. I put an adjustable wrench on it and the check valve came out with relative ease.

[@jaycimbak7781]

Thank you for this video. I have an old 242C that I found in a dumpster and I wanted to clean the check valve but did not want to take it out. I will put a lot of carburetor cleaner down the shaft and let it sit overnight like you said. Do I blow that out and then use water to wash it out and denatured alcohol to remove all of the water?

[@donpark759]

I have just been informed by Coleman (UK) that a replacement check valve for my Feather 442 is NOT available as a spare / replacement part. I question the after-market support of Coleman for their products - not being able to purchase a replacement check valve is disgraceful.

[@UltraMagaFan]

You do realize you can send it to Coleman to get fixed, right? They’ll actually fix it for free since your stove is a new model that they still sell. All you need is a proof of purchase.

[@johnnyphillips8892]

Thanks for the GREAT information, l have a military lantern the brass fitting that blocks one of the air intakes on a military spec Lantern has been removed how can I replace it? How bad is it to run it without it?

[@jamesconn1104]

Thank Ya Sir , very helpful video . i have a 200 a , the red coleman single mantle lantern my Dad got when i was a kid i would like to get it back in workin order, been awhile since i have fooled with it , but seems it would burn fine some then like flame up and maybe get bright & dim , any advice on it would be appreciated very much , i also have a 425 stove that was workin great up till awhile back , think dirt dobbers have plugged it up , think i can fix it . not sure about the lantern . Thanks !!

[@ckdd8891]

This was a big help. I have a 275 that this happened to, and I ended up stripping the check valve. Thanks for the tip. Does anyone know where I can buy the water bottle in the store. The link doesn't seem to work.

[@teridacktaljones4553]

Very 👍

[@OldTownColeman]

Thank you!

[@rickholmwood2000]

Love the vids. I have a 200a that seems like it's not getting pressure. New pump and I cleaned out everything I could get to other than that check valve. Could you give me some safe wisdom? I will try the carb cleaner first. Do they have a common clogging or failure point?

[@Krankie_V]

I've got a 502 sportster with a leaking check valve. I have tried soaking it in brake cleaner and vinegar but it still leaks. I finally have bit the bullet and ordered the check valve removal tool because I really don't want to mess up that nice little stove.

[@OldTownColeman]

You will not be sorry that you bought that tool.

[@nofreerides7033]

Man gotta say thank you… put some brake cleaner in and immediately fixed the problem 👍👍👍

[@patrickmiller569]

Great video. Very informative because I'm waiting on parts to repair 4 lanterns. On the 242, did I understand you to say that if one was to used the lantern regularly that they should update to a more modern check valve? And should the also update the pump? Thanks

[@OldTownColeman]

Patrick, yes sir that is correct. You can convert an "NRV" 242/243 to modern-style pump & check valve, but you'll need the entire assembly to do it. That means a newer check valve with air stem complete, and a pump with cap from a later 242 or 243 lantern.

[@kennethparker2168]

I love the mouse commercial

[@davecanly7535]

Would love to see you remove a main valve from a font Coleman 275

[@skswig1]

Is it the same repair if the air will not go in?

[@ChrisUong.English]

are the new coleman duel fuel as good as the older ones? i just got one form REI.

[@wendellcone7640]

Good job Frank. Nice shop you have there, moose and all. Still in Yucca Valley?

[@OldTownColeman]

No sir, escaped Yucca Valley 10 years ago. Now living in north Idaho where I was born & raised.

[@uriasj68]

Do you mind posting a link to purchase that check valve removal tool? I cannot find it. Greatly appreciate it.

[@johnsebastian5131]

I broke my coleman 508 graphite packing from the generator is it fixable?

[@benkanobe7500]

I have the same exact Lamp you light during the introduction, but the packing is dried out and leaks no matter how I try (sewing thread greased with fat) to stop it from leaking. How do I fix that as I LOVE my lamp and it looks to be as nice as yours?

[@pabloandresherrerafranco7583]

Hi ,, fron Colombia , i'm a fan for the Coleman lamps , we have 3 in this moment one of those not working , the other one the Sistem of pumb and key the Ruber rings it's dry , help me,, i sEE your videos and so Nice ,, grettings

[@OldTownColeman]

Sir! Please email me at oldtowncoleman.com and we will figure it out. Thank you!

[@Enjoymentboy]

Any idea what the size is for the o-ring used on the new smaller check valves (ie from a 335). I'd like to replace them when I re-install the check valves but cannot find any info on what size they are.

[@thegulagarchipelago5921]

Can you please explain how the valve stem functions? When I valve stem back I can't get air into the tank. With it all Good.. 🤔🤔🤔🤔

[@outdoorseyfun9842]

I've noticed some of the check valves have a little o'ring or gasket and some don't have it does it matter if it has an O-ring or gasket in there? And if it need one can I just pick one up at the parts store?

[@krashvictim]

soaked the fuel tank in vinagar for three days and cleaned my tank up a lot but a layer of old gasoline tarnish still coats the bottom of the tank. is CRT a good way to flush out the copper tank or what would you suggest, carb cleaner? or? it was really bad.

[@benkanobe7500]

Are you the same person that use to be on the main drag in Yucca Valley, CA? I used to purchase parts and get advice from him (20 years ago) we even had a family outing to visit the store and see the displays of all the great Colemans.

[@jdj5952]

I probably should buy that tool but I've been using the a ground down screwdriver and easy-out for 20 years and I'm stubborn. Also I don't really worry about destroying the old check valve. As long as they're still available I'll just replace with a new one.

[@OldTownColeman]

I sure understand that. I have more years without one than with, but I do find it to be a worthy investment.

[@coryfisher3759]

I'm unable to pressurize. The pump feels fully primed but when I open the tank, no air escapes. I verified the check valve wasn't stuck. Any thoughts?

[@HighSierraBob]

I'm fighting the check valve in a 228E. On the verge of using the dynamite!

[@OldTownColeman]

Bob, dynamite will work but it might not seal again when you're done. Did you get it out??

[@HighSierraBob]

@OldTownColeman LOL... yes sir, I bought the removal tool.

[@antiguidadesmetalurgiaealgomai]

Kkkk a risada foi boa estou com mesmo problema num 237 amigo muito obrigado

[@OldTownColeman]

Oh thank you very much--I am glad I am not the only one!

[@antiguidadesmetalurgiaealgomai]

I got an American 237 but the bottom was pretty rotten so I made a stainless steel one and I still haven't posted a video of it working... thanks for your explanations they are great

[@newt66c33]

hi i just order some parts for my stoves bummer you dont have check vale tool in stock ill check back later

[@chevyaram]

Hello, I replaced my check valve but it’s still leaking, any thoughts on why? Thank you. BTW love your channel

[@dipinmylip1171]

Don't bother asking Frank, because he's not going to respond to you. Take your check valve out and make sure there are no debris in it, flushing it with carburetor cleaner does a good job. Also make sure your air stem is not damaged at the tip.

[@clausiusuf]

I have never heard of a little moose. 😂

[@HighSierraBob]

They are extremely rare!

[@werewolfpa6628]

We need a segment on burner screens an if they are important to be in the burner assemble or if you can run a lantern with out one in their . I have just got a 200a that wont run with it missing , any thought on this

[@OldTownColeman]

Tim the 200A burner cap & screen is available from oldcolemanparts.com I'm pretty sure. I will be doing another "deep dive" video, into lighting and burning, and will do that test for ya.

[@werewolfpa6628]

@@OldTownColeman That would be cool I have all ready order some parts thank again an love the videos

[@JoeWilliams-tf1nu]

I have a dual mantle 288 lantern that is not building pressure. The pump gasket appears to be in good condition. Is it possible the check valve is stuck or should I just replace the pump anyways?

[@OldTownColeman]

Joe, is the pump building any pressure, or is it not making it into the fount? Please email me at [e-mail] and we'll get it working.

[@frankmarullo228]

3 ways to remove a check valve I'm. Number 3 to like this video , good video Frank but you stay away to long . I have a question for you. How much should I pay for an aluminum stand for a Colman stove ? ps you are starting to get away from the George Harrison look ... Now you are looking like FRANK ZAPPA !! ( only kidding Mr . zappa. .man I love all your videos. I learn a lot from you ) I have about 17 lanterns and about 15 stoves. I guess I need stove and lantern. Anonymous !!! Keep up the good videos my friend... Let me know about the stand. Thank you Frank from montana...

[@OldTownColeman]

Thank you Frank, I appreciate it. I loved Frank Zappa...Joe had an awesome garage. You should be able to get an aluminum high stand for $30 or so, a bit more for a vintage green one.

[@jimdent351]

Did they ever put O-rings on that check valve? I look down into the pump and I can almost swear there's a black ring around it. Anyway, I'm having a bear of time getting it out she's in there good. Is it possible to strip the threads that hold it in?

[@Krankie_V]

Later models have an O ring. All the replacement check valves have the O ring, and it works in the older devices which didn't originally have the O ring.

[@ArielorlandoGamez-mf3um]

Cambio valvula lo mismo hace retroceso x que explicamelo en castellano

[@davidboeckmann8910]

I have a 243 with the piston check valve and it leaks for a little while. What is the safe replacement 242? No major modifications???

[@OldTownColeman]

David you can repair the original check valve or you can install a new-style one, as long as you have a 242/243 pump that was made for an air stem.

[@davidboeckmann8910]

@@OldTownColeman does not have air stem is English model?

[@thermalreboot]

I have the 3rd tool specially designed for that purpose, it's easy and doesn't damage the valve.

[@dipinmylip1171]

That's great. Most of the serious collectors have them. Congratulations.

[@emilymcfadden4360]

Dont mess with a cow moose, either!

[@E85_STI]

I just used a chisel to remove it

[@PocketsandOutlaw]

Man I JUST threw away my old carb cleaner because I never use it for anything and you're telling me I need it to clean up my check valve? AHahahhahaha Will other stuff work? I have Goof Off which is pretty great at removing gummy junk. I have MAF cleaner too.

[@PocketsandOutlaw]

Update: I ended up getting more carb cleaner because it's very cheap. It's also really good for cleaning a clogged air/fuel tube if you spray a bunch of it into the font, pressurize, and then open the valve.

[@chriswebb6153]

Please narrate the whole video.

[@user-ji9od1zv2n]

4:15 No. If you do this very very very slow, it is NORMAL. You are wrong! (l dont speak English)

[@Krankie_V]

He said that one is OK to use. However that is NOT "normal". A new check valve will not do that.

[@jimharrow8104]

Far out...