[at-l] expolding stoves and stuffed packs!!

[winchester@unnet.com (Ron Winchester)]

>     My stove exploded into a fireball.  Twice!!  ( Don't worry, my house is
> still standing and I am pretty sure that my dog will get over the shock!)
> However, I think that it still works.  Think is the operative word here.  I
> don't have the energy to try it again!!  (The flame keeps going out after I
> prime it)

Funny for a new stove that's been primed.  Did you pre-heat according to
directions?

Something else to remember if using a Whisperlite or similar stove is
maintenance.  The hose between the fuel bottle and stove should be periodically
cleaned by pulling the twisted metal cleaning wire in and out several times - no
big deal - but it will help your stove run better.

Also, replace "o" rings every so many years or when they get checked.  I was on a
solo canoe trip in Michigan's UP one very warm February, when my stove went up in
a ball of flame, catching my closed cell foam pad on fire.  Good thing I was
cooking away from my tent.  The "o" rings had puked and caused the blaze.  I
carry a repair kit, replaced them in about 10 minutes, then cooked dinner.  Other
than singed eyebrows and a burnt pad - no problem.

Other than that, it sounds like you're having fun sorting through your new gear.
Don't get discouraged, and try to get your pack down to a manageable weight.
There is a slight learning curve, and once you hit it, try not to forget it.
Have fun!

RonW