How to Install a Pinned Wick in a Kerosene Heater

Kerosene heaters can be used to heat a cabin or a large tent. They require regular maintenance, including changing the wick. There are many makes and models with small differences in their assemblies, but kerosene heaters with pinned wicks generally work the same way and share many common features.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Screwdriver Wrench Replacement wick
Screwdriver
Wrench
Replacement wick

Step 1

Use a screwdriver to unscrew and remove the heater cabinet.

Step 2

Gently remove the adjustment knob for the wick and unscrew the fuel cap.

Step 3

Remove the dressing ring, then remove the screws or nuts that secure the wick assembly to the base of the heater.

Step 4

Gently pull the wick assembly out of the base, then gently pull the wick cover off the bottom of the heater.

Step 5

Remove the old wick from the assembly. If it is resisting because of a snug fit, try pulling it toward the assembly wall.

Step 6

Take the wick sleeve out of the assembly, then push the new wick into it and the retaining teeth. There should be an arrow to indicate which direction the wick should be pushed. Align the wick's pins with the adjuster pinholes on the sleeve.

Step 7

Put the wick cover back on the bottom, making sure the fastener holes (nuts or screws from Step 3) are aligned.

Step 8

Put the wick adjuster knob back on the wick assembly and turn it back and forth a bit to make sure everything works. Raise the wick to its highest position for re-assembly of the heater before taking the knob back off.

Step 9

Put the heater parts back together. Once the wick assembly is back on the heater base, put the knob on and try out the wick and the extinguish button (if there is one). Leave the wick in a lowered position this time, then remove the knob and complete the re-assembly.

Article Written By Edwin Thomas

Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.

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