Step 1: Before removing the fuel cap, make sure the lantern is cool.
The tank may be slow to open.
Step 2: Add fuel using a small funnel.
The fuel will be clean if a funnel has a filter.If the lantern is able to use gasoline, it can be used.Coleman liquid fuel should only be used with this type of lantern.Coleman fuel is preferred because of the cleaner burning.
Step 3: Look at the mantles.
mantles need to be installed if the lantern does not have a hole in it.Cut off the excess string by tying the mantle on the burner tube.The package should have instructions on it.Hold a match or lighter beneath the mantle and it will burn.The mantle should be allowed to burn until it becomes a white ash.If it gets touched or bumped, it will break and become a white ash.Don't use a mantle with a hole in it.A jet of hot gas could shoot out of the hole and burn the glass globe.Remove the glass globe and reassemble the lantern.
Step 4: Turn the pump handle to the left if you can locate it.
The check valve needs to be unlocked so air can flow through it.Give it 30-40 full strokes with your thumb over the hole.The air pressure inside the tank will build up.The valve should be turned to the right after pumping is complete.
Step 5: The cleaning lever needs to be checked and changed.
If it's older, the lantern should have a small lever on either side of the frame.This could be a small brass wire bent into a loop.For a couple of turns, turn this lever in a circle.The fuel and air mixture will come out of the generator tip.If it's a newer lantern, you can open and close the main valve wheel multiple times to clear the generator tip.
Step 6: When you hear a gurgling sound, open the main fuel valve.
The mantle is where this is located.You might have a fuel air tube problem if you just hear air.
Step 7: If you have a match or lighter, open the main fuel valve and apply the flame inside the lantern just below the mantle.
It should be on fire.Flames can be seen inside the globe and can go up into the vent hood.This is normal.The generator, a small brass tube behind the mantle, will heat up when the fuel is converted to a gas.A bright glow will appear once the flames are gone.The main fuel valve is open.
Step 8: If the lantern starts to dim, you can use the pump to add more air pressure or clear the generator tip by rotating the cleaning lever several times.
The lantern should remain bright for several hours with a clear tip.The lantern may be leaking pressure if it dims after a short time.
Step 9: To shut off the lantern, close the fuel valve.
While the lantern is burning, the remaining fuel can be burned off.
Step 10: Before putting a lantern in a container or opening a cap, make sure it's cool.