princess optimas stove

[bob mundle]

just bought a catalina 27. tried to use the 2 burner alcohol stove (princess optimus) and had a fire. seems the alcohol is coming out a little fast. boat has been sitting for a while. does anyone know where i may purchase replacement parts for the stove ? thanks bob mundle. robertmundle@netzero.com

 

[Trevor - SailboatOwners.c]

I'd consider replacing stove

Hi Bob -I don't know where to get parts for your stove, but I'd consider replacing the unit with propan - set up properly with vented box and solenoid switch, this can be a safer alternative to alcohol. Plus, you can set it up to work with a BBQ!Just a thought,Trevor

 

[Mark15143]

Did you pre-heat the stove?

Alcohol stoves require pre-heating or you will have an un-atomized stream of fuel which will cause a fire. I believe I saw replacement parts at defender.com. Had 27 with Princess for 14 years and the stove worked great - after you get over the fear of pre-heating with large flame burning from pre-heat well at base of stove.

 

[Todd (SV Windwalker)]

Simply preheat...

Turn the valve open for about three to four secods, then close. A small resevoir at the bottom(at 6-o'clock) will fill with alcohol. stick a lighter down there & light. a small preheat flame should start. Let burn for 30 seconds to preheat the burner before opening the valve again. Slowly open valve, listen for a hiss (atomized fuel). If you hear a squirt, shut valve & repeat pre heat. Once you have a hiss, the burner is sufficiently preheated to burn. This is similar to a coleman white gas stove.Be diligent on this procedure! or you'll burn your boat down...

 

[Augie Byllott]

Alcohol stoves

I had a pressurized alcohol stove that came with my C30. I was never comfortable with it and replaced it with a non-pressurized Origo alcohol stove. No fuss, no muss; just turn the knob and apply a light for an instant start every time. Twist the knob to adjust from full to tiny flame or anything in between. Absolutely no maintainance required. Just fill it with cheap denatured alcohol.It's going strong after twelve years and never a flare-up. There's nothing to wear out, but if it was stolen, I'd scoot down to West Marine and buy another.