Mr heater/cooker question

[B@ssmaster]

This has probably been asked before, but I haven't found a specific answer yet. Other than the gas orifice, is there any other part of the heater/cooker assembly to check if I am having a flow issue? Can the valve assembly be taken apart or cleaned in some fashion? Can I shoot carb cleaner into it for example?

I have an ancient Mr Heater, cooker version. I run a 20lb tank with hose (no filter.) Had it for 15 years or more. Unit has worked great all these years, but I have noticed that this year it doesn't seem to be putting out quite as much heat on high as it used to. Started researching posts and have learned that I should be running a filter due to various contaminants in the propane/hose system. But the damage may have already been done.

I am assuming that there may be a restriction/contamination someplace. I have disassembled the heater and cleaned the gas orifice with no change in operation. Still seems to be running less than full output. Is there a way to dismantle or clean the valve/knob assembly? If I am able to clean/repair it I will add the filter to prevent future issues. (And yes, I turn off the tank first and let the system burn itself out after each use, in case that matters.) Any hints would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

B@ssmaster

[Jim Almquist]

Quote:

Started researching posts and have learned that I should be running a filter due to various contaminants in the propane/hose system. But the damage may have already been done.

The problem with the contaminants was with a oil that ends up in 20 pound tanks and then will get on the ceramics of the big and small buddys. I don't think that is your problem but maybe just a adjustment of your thermocouple or maybe a new one. Have you ever replaced it ?

[B@ssmaster]

Yep, changed the thermocouple as well. Should have mentioned that.

[chaffmj]

This doesn't answer your question but you don't need a filter with a Mr Heater/Cooker. I have been using mine for a long long time and have never needed a filter. I have two and the older one (2o years old or so) doesn't get as hot as my newer one but it still keeps my 6x8 more than toasty. It could just be the metal has been heated so many times that it just doesn't get as hot. Could be due to some corrision on it from heating it so many times.

[shorefisher]

I had onr that did the same thing and it turned out to be that the fine mesh screen had just burned out with age and it did not look like it could be replaced. Just had to buy a new one. There is realy not much that can go wrong with them thermocoupler, orifice, and old age.

[Hard617]

You can get the screen kit. You have to drill ou the rivets and put the new one in, BUT good luck finding somone who carrys the screen kit. They also sell new orifices, valve assy's, etc. pretty much everything to build one out of scratch, but like I said, good luck fining somone who carrys that stuff.

[Esox_Magnum]

I would agree with screens to, I replaced mine a few years ago and runs like new again. I think it cost me $12 at the local baitshop.

[marine_man]

BUT good luck finding somone who carrys the screen kit.

I ordered mine directly from Mr Heater last year online... no problems...

marine_man