Took a small bike pump down to the boat today, pumped up the kerosene tank, and got the old Force 10 heater going. Not as much output as I expected, so dug out the 'directions' (RTFM41). Valve was only opening only 1/4 turn - supposed to be 1/4 and 1/2. Let it cool off, then disassembled the burner - found the wire end on the pricker was missing. Installed a spare pricker, and after much fiddling, got it opening 3/8 of a turn - just like the directions. Pumped the tank up to 15 psi (rather than 10 psi) and things seem good.
Problem is I'm down to one spare pricker. I'd like to find a source for a few, plus a new packing for the control shaft. Burner (I think) is a Portugese Patria (copy of the Optimus #207?). Any suggestions? I think I'd go with a propane heater before spending $115 for a new burner. Or maybe something that burns solid fuel??