space heater wont stay lit

[Rapid Robert]

kerosene powered 120V torpedo space heater. I press the button & it will stay running for several seconds. any idea on what might be wrong? thank you for your time. RR

 

[MopaR&D]

I messed with one of those years ago but I remember they're kind of like a small engine in a way, iirc there's a filter that needs to be clean and free-flowing and a mixture screw of sorts to tune the air-fuel ratio. I got it running good but the fumes drove me nuts and gave me a headache. I'm sure there are YouTube videos about it.

 

[1MeanA]

There must be some sort of flame sensing thermocouple in it. Its probably shot.

 

[RustyRatRod]

All of mine work good. But I leave um plugged in.

 

[Righty Tighty]

Thermocouple is the first thing I'd check.

 

[Plymouth 65]

I prefer the propane fueled torpedo heater, no nasty fumes! Most likely it's the thermocouple if it won't stay lite. 65

 

[69conv]

Just fixed mine. Youtube video but my problem was the motor vanes. They are made of graphite and wear to the point the vanes dont slide like they should. 8:22 is where my problem was addressed. The other thing I found is that the fuel hose got brittle with age and was leaking slightly at the manifold. I trimmed 1/2 inch off the end to get back to some live rubber and now it works like new. Hope this helps.

 

[Rapid Robert]

good info, thanks guys, I will get after it. RR

 

[Daves69]

As I recall, mine was acting like that due to a clog from a deteriorating foam air intake filter.

They used to sell filter kits for them...

 

[harrisonm]

I use a 240V electric heater. It keeps my oversized 25x25 2 car garage toasty.

 

[A-Body III]

Be sure the fuel is good. Old kerosine is ok for a wick type heater but will not work in the torpedo heaters...don't ask me how I know.