PICKED ONE UP DIRT CHEAP AT A PAWN SHOP. THE PILOT JUST DIDN'T SEEM RIGHT KEPT SHUTTING OFF! THANK YOU FOR YOUR VIDEO BROTHER! INSTANT FIX YOU SAVED ME ABOUT $50 BUCKS !
This video was the most helpful for me because you showed how to take it apart! My lines had oil in them. Cleaning both lines was the fix for me, my pilot line was plugged up.
Same here, both lines were clogged on mine. Probably because I never changed my filter and was using it off a 100lb tank into my garage for hobby work etc. I guess if you also use the quick connect hose it avoids the oil build up as it's a lower pressure line as it has its own. Regulator vs the screw on lines that have to use internal regulator.
I honestly cannot thank you enough for posting this video!!! I live alone off grid. My buddy heater is the only source of heat I have. It was 22 degrees When my heater went out. I found this video And thanks to you I am up and running and warm again. 😊
Loved the video; there is only one caution I’d mention. Prior to putting the covers back on, one might soap check for leaks on the line that was removed, cleaned and reinstalled. Thank you for posting the video and happy holidays.
Big fan of the Mr Heaters, been using them for 20 years. This is great advice, I do it annually. It keeps them running like new. Thanks for the video, be well my friend.
I was told use a filter with a bigger tank. But I had more trouble with it to keep it running. I bought a brand new 10 lbs tank and have no problem keeping it running. It lights instantly. And yes I do the maintenance on it twice a winter. Thank you for the video on the maintenance.
Thank you! My Big Buddy was actually working but pilot was hard to get lit sometimes and would always emit a loud high pitch whine. I cleaned the line you showed and the one that feeds the pilot light and it now starts super easy and no more high pitch noise.
Thank you for this video. I just purchased one of the Mr Heater big buddy heaters that I am sure was a return but looked brand new for a good price. It wouldn't start so I took it apart and sure enough as soon as I got the tube off oil poured out of it. After cleaning everything out it works perfectly now. The only thing different on disassembly is there is a clip on the front plastic panel near where the red knob goes that you have to take a long screwdriver and gently pry back.
Thank you for the video. We cleaned the orifice with the cotton swab and alcohol. Came out clean like yours and used the air compressor. There seem to have been some white tape stuck in the air intake. Works great. Thank you again.
Thank you so much, video was easy to follow and I was able to get the unit lit after cleaning the tube of oil. Doesn't take much residue to keep it from working.i have used a 20lb. tank for 5 years no problem no filter but now it but me. Thanks again
Very good video, very detailed. Note that some of the hoses will leach oil into the lines, but there are hoses that don't leach the oil into the lines and you don't need the filter for those hoses.
Thank you! We have a little used Heat Buddy in our camping trailer as a backup... and I've always heard about using 'a filter'... but never understood why. Most explanations say residue from the propane hose can cause "problems" and want to sell you an insane expensive hose. I did discover that I needed a high pressure hose direct from 30lb tank -> Heat Buddy without a regulator because the typical lower pressure regulator doesn't allow enough flow for good operation thru the built-in regulator and a low pressure hose doesn't seem like a good idea for high pressure. You're explanation clean-up / filter makes perfect sense and I thank you for an actual link to a specific filter! Finally, went ahead and got a filter :)
Another intensely, descriptive demonstration, Kevin. I’m getting ready to use mine for the first time this Sunday, after buying it last year. This is such great information to know. Thank you!
Doing great service sir. Thankyou so much for your videos. And propane is made from natural gas, And in the process they use oil, And a small amount of oil gets into the end product, which is the propane gas.. hope that helped 😊😊
Wow, that worked, SO easily and SO well. I didn't have to pull the pipe. There's no way I'd have thought that huge pilot light pipe could be blocked enough to reduce the flow - but a couple of passes with a Q-tip and brake cleaner and the pilot flame is literally twice as long as it way. Realizing I need to put the filter on because I'm usually running 1lb tank refills.
Kevin, it's been a long time since I watched any TH-cam videos but I wanted to tell you there's one other thing that goes wrong with heaters like these because I've got a couple of them and a simple adjustment of the thermocoupler will have a pilot light working in no time at all,, whenever the pilot light doesn't want to stay ignited.. I do the same steps like you did in this video by checking the inside of the pilot light first with a q-tip and then I check to see if the flame is actually going across the carbon tip of the thermocoupler as my second step to send the proper heat signal to the thermostat, so it knows to keep the gas coming through properly so it stays ignited and if that doesn't get it working,, then I go to the gas line checking method and normally one of those three steps should get these heaters back to operating right, if there's no leaks anywhere causing an issue to begin with..
I had issue with mine and a spider made a nest inside. I had to tear the pilot totally apart as the vent hole and pin hole were clogged. FYI it will be very hard to pass air through from the pipe side as it is a very small hole. You should barely have airflow since it is a pilot.
Good video-I don't know if I missed something... Can we adjust the pilot light down? I just got a new one, the pilot light is higher than I'd like. My last one endured for over 20 years, it got dropped one time too many times. Otherwise it worked great and got a ton of use. Was not sitting in a closet. When these are not in use, vacuum them out, store in a sealed up clean new trash bag. I also used a filter & hose hooked up to a 20 or 100 lb propane tank. Rarely used a one-pounder directly. It appears the filter is worth it. Full disclosure: only changed the filter three times in 20-something years 😏 But I think the key was sealing it up, not leaving it on the floor when it's not in use. No chance for dust & dirt to collect. That's when mine collects the most junk - sitting idle on the floor The biggest complaint I see is over the ignition, how long it takes to light, & draw in propane. I don't keep clicking the ignition if it doesn't want to light after non-use for awhile Light it manually with a lighter and it seems to clean things right out and work fine My last one went year-round, was a primary heat source for a few Winters during that 22+ years. And I think the reason why it lasted that long is because it was used so frequently. Just got to keep them clean when they're not running and burning out the junk. But I'd like to turn my pilot down?
@@Robinson-Homestead I figured as much, I thought I'd check. We're already whipping out the heaters in Alaska! Although we didn't really put them away. Thanks much! Stay warm!
Pointing a propane torch at the pilot, turn your Mr. Buddy on and it will burn off any thing inside. Worked for me. You can also remove two screws underneath, remove the cover and unscrew the couplings. Need 1/2" and 9/16" open end wrenches. Remove rhe couplers and blow air through each side. Wipe away any oil or debris. Reconnect and then test or retry pointing the propane torch at the pilot with the heater on high.
Great video! My heater wouldn't start this season, so I did the q-tip thing with Everclear and started right up. Mine is around 20 years old & still works perfectly. I was wondering if you can switch the burner plates as I usually only the left plate on medium. Right plate has hardly any use on it. Both still work well, though.
Mine came with a filter and line for 20 lb. tank. But the oil still got through the filter and cost problems for the pilot light. I have replaced the filter every year. And on the small heater there's a screw that's a pain to get to, behind the black shield, up next to the control nob. So the easiest way to clean it is take the back off, by removing the two screws in the bottom corners, and the two screws on the top next to the handle. Then loosen the night on the line that goes to the pilot light assembly. And remove the small screw that holds the assembly to the black shield. So that you can slide it to the side to clear the way of the line. Use a air compressor to blow out the pilot light assembly. Then lay the heater on its face propped up on the side with the control valve, so that the oil can run out of line that goes to the pilot light. Leave it lay overnight. Then reassemble your heater. Put on a new filter, fire it up and let it run on high for about 30 minutes. And just repeat the process as needed.
I agree you need to use air pressure to clean out the lines .but unless you have a moister catch on your air compressor you will be getting water. Not good.. best to use compressed air cans you buy
Qtips will ruin your heater. It might work the few first times but will leave fibers that will carbonize and clog it. I have been through 6 of these heaters so far living off grid. Get a proper diameter wire brush, disassemble the heater and soak the fuel tube and thermocouple in solvent(making sure the thermocouple wires are not contacting the solvent), then hit the inside of the fuel tube with the "tube brush" flush with solvent again and repeat once or twice. let all parts dry completely, reassemble and use. Do it right the first time.....
Howdy sir,, could you do the conversion kit to supply natural gas to big buddy and or the portable buddy heater. Thankyou sir.😊😊 From what i understand,, Mr heater has a wall heater that works on both natural gas and propane.. And there is supposed to be a conversion kit for buddy heaters as well. I am thinking this might be good in my cabin on the mountain 😊😊😊
The big buddy seams way friendly than the original regarding taking apart. Keyboard cleaner down the exhaust hole did the trick. Mine was gurgling and making noises. Not any more. 🤗
@ Absolutely. It’s still working a week after spraying down the exhaust hole. I’ve heard others also say to lean it on its left side overnight. (Facing it) Left side lean. 👍
Very helpful step by step video. My pilot flame is 2x as big as before, but the tip is still orange and it is weak so it flows up and not over to the thermocouple. Any other ideas?
Neat trick, thanks. What causes the pilot orifice to get clogged in the first place - dust or what? Also, what's on the end of the pilot hole? Does your air come out somewhere or maybe it runs into the fuel line? Wonderin what all the air is reaching inside the heater. Typically it will just be a problem at and near where the pilot flame comes out though right? I want to avoid ever having to take the thing apart :) Thanks again
@@Robinson-Homestead Thanks y'all; dust is an issue for me and - fortunately, I just bought a hefty blower/vacuum for my PC. I should just blow or better even - vacuum it out maybe twice a month. Easy peasy! Thanks again
I've been using brake cleaner. Quick, efficient and the pilot light works/looks as good as the day I purchased it. EDIT: I've been using mine for 3 seasons working on number 4.
Really enjoyed this informative video. Wonder what other sides plumbing looks like where quick connect is. The Q-tip trick seems to have worked for me cause it produced a much stronger flame after the swab. Also thinking a pipe cleaner mite do it but q-tios are usually more convenient...thanks
Thanks you! I like to learn the most I can about anything that I work on and you definitely help! Great videos! I got the 12 ft buddy heater hose and seen some say you don’t need a filter with that hose. Do you think I should get a filter anyways?
wide range of sure fixes for 20lb tanks, lines. early step in troubleshoot should be test with 1 lb, bypass problems associated with hoses, filters, check valves. one can do a lot of fixing, only to find that heater itself works fine, been there.
Kevin, your video was very well laid out. Unfortunately, this has not solved my problem. Being in the natural gas instrumentation industry, your approach is very pragmatic, but I suspect the problem is in the regulator. There is clearly a restriction of flow as the panels will not light even if the pilot stays lit prior to attempting to ignite the first panel. Again, very good video but it’s time to contact the manufacturer. Everything in your video is a spot on approach to solving most problems.
Tip over switch. Short the wires together and see if it runs. Can the regulators fail such that there is too much gas flow? That is the problem I'm having. I'm wondering if blowing it out with shop air kills the regulators.
Now I have a question for you on a wall mount propane heater, the plastic knob that controls the gas on and off,, pilot ignition , is held on the top of the gas control valve by a brass screw and a spring underneath of it,, that lets you push down on it as you turn it on and off and for the pilot light.. The head of the brass screw snapped off flush to the top of the metal valve that it threads into.. It's a very small screw and would you have any suggestions on how I can get that piece of screw out of there, before having to try using a very small drill bit and take a chance on messing up threads.. I know I may not have any other choice than trying to drill it out but figured I would ask you first since I was on here watching your video and it reminded me of the heater issue I have
A very small drill bit may be necessary to get a very small "easy out" bit in to grab the screw. If you can find one that small. Drill bits rotate clockwise. Easy outs rotate counter clockwise so when it bites the broken screw or bolt it unscrews it. If you have to drill the whole thing out, you may be able to re-tap the threads.
@@LarryMorrow2 the good thing about it is the bolt is made of brass and if I can find a very small drill bit and easy out, then it should back out with no problem but I still worry about damaging the threads on the control valve box and the Honeywell brand replacement gas valve control is like $160 but I might try to find a messed up heater and see if I can used to complete gas valve out of one and put it in another as long as it's got the three gas line hookups but I figure I'll run into a PSI rating or something along those lines that I have to stay within and I'm not familiar at all with the internal parts in those type of heaters see what parts are possibly interchangeable and I hope I can get it fixed because it's a real good heater
@@goldhunter9641 I forgot to mention that once I used several stainless steel self tapping sheet metal screws to both drill a hole and tap threads into a block of aluminum. Using each one as a disposable drill bit, in and out, in and out, until I was able to make screw holes next to the broken bolt in my old van, and successfully re-mounted the thermostat housing. The broken bolt also had a broken easy out stuck in it. Lol! If you damage the threads, you may still be able to force a new screw into it. That part sounds already broken and worth a try.
I thought the oil in the line comes from using the wrong hose. Some of the hoses would break down over time and tiny droplets of oil came out of them. I believe that's why some hoses say use a filter and others say no filter needed
According to Mr. Heater the oil comes from the hose used to connect to 20lb tanks under high pressure, you can get hoses the don’t release any oil under pressure to use with a 20lb tank or use the quick connect hose the has a regulator on it that connects to a fitting on the left side in where the cylinder goes. (Those hoses come in lengths up to 24 foot on Amazon for around $30)
@@catherineostrom7575 maybe just try a keyboard can spray in the outlet. It fixed mine. The q tip got stuck in my second to last one which plugged it up. I’d rather use a gun cleaning thing that you can use. Something that you can get at an arts or craft store.
I dont have brake cleaner. I don't have air compressor. Son-in-law just opened the lines and drained stuff. I've cleaned the pilot orifice. I use Mr Heater special hose and filter. Pilot just gurgles, maybe a yellow flame until the pilot knob is released.
@@Robinson-Homestead It wouldn't dig. I ended up taking the fuel line off of the tube that supplies the pilot light and then it fell out. I enjoyed your video and found it helpful. Thanks.
I have a little buddy heater and the pilot kept going out. I cleaned the thermocouple and and there is a ground wire on the gas valve inside the unit. I cleaned the connection and it worked the season. The screw is steel and the valve is aluminum so it galvaniclly corroded.
no, the filter is for oils present inside the hoses that make them flexible after manufacturing. Therefore you only need a filter if you use a hose. the mr. buddy brand hoses are made to be used without a filter. That might be worth picking up and paying the extra 10 dollars for
Well I need advice....I have a new Big Buddy heater straight out of the box. Have a new Mr Heater hose and a new Mr Heater filter. Hooked everything up and the attached to a full 20lb tank....the pilot lights with a beautiful blue flame quite easily. Move the dial to low and the pilot almost immediately peters out like i just ran out of propane and the element does not lite. What am I missing?
Sound like you got a bum heater, you shouldn't have those issues with a new heater i would return it and get another one, good luck and thanks for watching.
The problem I have is the pilot light will light fine with a nice blue flame. But it will not stay lit when I go to turn the burners on. Sometimes I have to hold it for quite a while, several minutes before it will stay lit. Then sometimes after burning for a couple of minutes I hear a click and the whole thing shuts off.
Mine quit just a few minutes ago so I know what I have to do. Luckily I have two heaters, big and a backup little one. Fun times ahead cleaning stuff. Oh yeah..almost out of propane so a long drive ahead to go get tanks refilled.. The thrills of getting old. If you're using an air compressor might not be a bad idea to keep a air line filter to keep compressor gunk from spitting all over everywhere and drain the water out of the tank..I used to paint cars for a living so it will blow stuff in things you might not appreciate if you don't filter your air lines.
Just purged the line and turned tank on slow 3 times,pilot lights right up,low will not light,good on medium,still sputtering on low,and yes took it apart 3 times blew all lines and cotton swab deal,,,uggh,help please,thanks
My pilot light comes on strong and stays on as long as you hold the knob. Once you let go of the knob it immediately turns off and the light goes out. I've cleaned it thoroughly with a q-tip but still nothing. Any ideas what my issue might be?
The chance that you will have what you need to fix this while camping is next to none. Do not rely on propane heaters for survival. It will let you down at the most crucial moments. Pure frustration.
@Robinson-Homestead I discovered the problem. Lack of proper ventilation will cause the problem. I was showing signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, then the detector sounded. Lesson learned.
Just got a portable buddy for Christmas can't get it to stay lit more that 10 minutes straight out of the box I bought the 20lb adapter hose and filter have cleaned the pilot but it still shuts off I can relight it right away but it's keeps going out?
Turn tank off, 10 seconds flame goes out, hose is empty. Turn flame valve off. To restart, turn tank on slowly, turn burner on and light. The hose can not have pressure left in it because Propane is oil and the oil separates and clogs the hose over a few days so this is the correct way to turn off the burner when the hose goes a distance before the proprietary regulator for the burner. A barbecue pit hose does not have this problem because the regulator is at the tank valve.
My pilot light goes off every time o try and click to ignite heating plate. And it will also just turn off after i so get it going. Any ideas what is causing that problem?
A perfect gentleman that is clear and precise. GREAT job and easy to follow steps. Thanks!
Thank you glad I could help you.
PICKED ONE UP DIRT CHEAP AT A PAWN SHOP. THE PILOT JUST DIDN'T SEEM RIGHT KEPT SHUTTING OFF! THANK YOU FOR YOUR VIDEO BROTHER! INSTANT FIX YOU SAVED ME ABOUT
$50 BUCKS !
Wow so glad i could help, thanks for watching.
This video was the most helpful for me because you showed how to take it apart! My lines had oil in them. Cleaning both lines was the fix for me, my pilot line was plugged up.
Glad it helped!
Thank you so much for the comment and watching.
Same here, both lines were clogged on mine. Probably because I never changed my filter and was using it off a 100lb tank into my garage for hobby work etc. I guess if you also use the quick connect hose it avoids the oil build up as it's a lower pressure line as it has its own. Regulator vs the screw on lines that have to use internal regulator.
I honestly cannot thank you enough for posting this video!!! I live alone off grid. My buddy heater is the only source of heat I have. It was 22 degrees When my heater went out. I found this video And thanks to you I am up and running and warm again. 😊
I am so glad i could help you stay warm. Thanks for watching.
Loved the video; there is only one caution I’d mention. Prior to putting the covers back on, one might soap check for leaks on the line that was removed, cleaned and reinstalled. Thank you for posting the video and happy holidays.
Big fan of the Mr Heaters, been using them for 20 years. This is great advice, I do it annually. It keeps them running like new. Thanks for the video, be well my friend.
I was told use a filter with a bigger tank. But I had more trouble with it to keep it running. I bought a brand new 10 lbs tank and have no problem keeping it running. It lights instantly. And yes I do the maintenance on it twice a winter. Thank you for the video on the maintenance.
Thank you for watching and for sharing your tips.
Thank you! My Big Buddy was actually working but pilot was hard to get lit sometimes and would always emit a loud high pitch whine. I cleaned the line you showed and the one that feeds the pilot light and it now starts super easy and no more high pitch noise.
Glad I could help!
Thank you so much for the comment and watching.
This is a great video! You are a natural teacher. Thanks for covering this so thoroughly from beginning to finish.
Thanks for the comment, I'm glad you found it helpful!
Thank you for this video. I just purchased one of the Mr Heater big buddy heaters that I am sure was a return but looked brand new for a good price. It wouldn't start so I took it apart and sure enough as soon as I got the tube off oil poured out of it. After cleaning everything out it works perfectly now. The only thing different on disassembly is there is a clip on the front plastic panel near where the red knob goes that you have to take a long screwdriver and gently pry back.
Glad I could help.
Thank you so much for the comment.
Thank you for the video. We cleaned the orifice with the cotton swab and alcohol. Came out clean like yours and used the air compressor. There seem to have been some white tape stuck in the air intake. Works great. Thank you again.
Thank you so much for the comment glad to help.
Thank you so much, video was easy to follow and I was able to get the unit lit after cleaning the tube of oil. Doesn't take much residue to keep it from working.i have used a 20lb. tank for 5 years no problem no filter but now it but me. Thanks again
Glad the video helped you.
Just watched and tore into my Mr Heater Portable Buddy. The tubing is different but logic the same. Up and running in about an hour. Thanks! Ed
Thanks for watching, Ed! Glad your heater is working again.
One of the best "how to " vids of seen. Great job!
Glad it was helpful! Thank you.
Best video I found for fixing my problem.
Thank you so much for the comment glad to help.
Very good video, very detailed. Note that some of the hoses will leach oil into the lines, but there are hoses that don't leach the oil into the lines and you don't need the filter for those hoses.
Thanks for the comment my friend.
I bought one of those hoses. Use it with a filter also. Still having trouble with the pilot. So, it's getting oil anyway.
Thank you! We have a little used Heat Buddy in our camping trailer as a backup... and I've always heard about using 'a filter'... but never understood why. Most explanations say residue from the propane hose can cause "problems" and want to sell you an insane expensive hose. I did discover that I needed a high pressure hose direct from 30lb tank -> Heat Buddy without a regulator because the typical lower pressure regulator doesn't allow enough flow for good operation thru the built-in regulator and a low pressure hose doesn't seem like a good idea for high pressure. You're explanation clean-up / filter makes perfect sense and I thank you for an actual link to a specific filter! Finally, went ahead and got a filter :)
Well done. Very clear instructions to trouble shoot the pilot light not lighting.
Thanks for the comment.
Another intensely, descriptive demonstration, Kevin. I’m getting ready to use mine for the first time this Sunday, after buying it last year. This is such great information to know. Thank you!
It's important to get correct hookup for your particular heater
Doing great service sir. Thankyou so much for your videos.
And propane is made from natural gas, And in the process they use oil, And a small amount of oil gets into the end product, which is the propane gas.. hope that helped 😊😊
Thanks for the info, and for watching.
Wow, that worked, SO easily and SO well. I didn't have to pull the pipe. There's no way I'd have thought that huge pilot light pipe could be blocked enough to reduce the flow - but a couple of passes with a Q-tip and brake cleaner and the pilot flame is literally twice as long as it way. Realizing I need to put the filter on because I'm usually running 1lb tank refills.
Glad I could help thanks for the comment.
Most helpful video I’ve personally ever used. Worked exactly like you said and now my little budddy is working again
Thank you
Great im so glad i could help , thanks for watching.
The air compressor worked like a charm. Thank you 💪
Thanks for the comment glad to help.
Thanks dude, i couldn't get this thing started. They are missing crucial information in the manual about what is needed to get the heater going
You are welcome i am glad to help.
Kevin, it's been a long time since I watched any TH-cam videos but I wanted to tell you there's one other thing that goes wrong with heaters like these because I've got a couple of them and a simple adjustment of the thermocoupler will have a pilot light working in no time at all,, whenever the pilot light doesn't want to stay ignited.. I do the same steps like you did in this video by checking the inside of the pilot light first with a q-tip and then I check to see if the flame is actually going across the carbon tip of the thermocoupler as my second step to send the proper heat signal to the thermostat, so it knows to keep the gas coming through properly so it stays ignited and if that doesn't get it working,, then I go to the gas line checking method and normally one of those three steps should get these heaters back to operating right, if there's no leaks anywhere causing an issue to begin with..
My Big Buddy clogged exactly the same way. Easy fix if you know what to do - Thank You for detailing this, good work 👍
Glad it helped.
Thanks for the comment and watching.
And if you have those tools and brake cleaner.
I had issue with mine and a spider made a nest inside. I had to tear the pilot totally apart as the vent hole and pin hole were clogged. FYI it will be very hard to pass air through from the pipe side as it is a very small hole. You should barely have airflow since it is a pilot.
Thanks for the info.
Thank you for this. this information can save lives in a SHTF situation
Thanks for watching glad i could help.
Good video-I don't know if I missed something... Can we adjust the pilot light down? I just got a new one, the pilot light is higher than I'd like.
My last one endured for over 20 years, it got dropped one time too many times. Otherwise it worked great and got a ton of use. Was not sitting in a closet.
When these are not in use, vacuum them out, store in a sealed up clean new trash bag.
I also used a filter & hose hooked up to a 20 or 100 lb propane tank. Rarely used a one-pounder directly.
It appears the filter is worth it.
Full disclosure: only changed the filter three times in 20-something years 😏
But I think the key was sealing it up, not leaving it on the floor when it's not in use. No chance for dust & dirt to collect. That's when mine collects the most junk - sitting idle on the floor
The biggest complaint I see is over the ignition, how long it takes to light, & draw in propane.
I don't keep clicking the ignition if it doesn't want to light after non-use for awhile
Light it manually with a lighter and it seems to clean things right out and work fine
My last one went year-round, was a primary heat source for a few Winters during that 22+ years.
And I think the reason why it lasted that long is because it was used so frequently.
Just got to keep them clean when they're not running and burning out the junk.
But I'd like to turn my pilot down?
Sorry I don't think you can adjust the pallet light thank you for the comment and watching.
@@Robinson-Homestead I figured as much, I thought I'd check.
We're already whipping out the heaters in Alaska! Although we didn't really put them away.
Thanks much!
Stay warm!
WARNING; don't use Q-tip, use a pipe cleaner instead, cotton may get clogged inside the line from the Q-tip.
Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the important advice.
Use a 22cal barrel mop! And wire brush if it’s real bad like mine was.
Pulot was at half, heater wouldn't stay on. I used a qtip... Now its not igniting. :(
My quip cotton got stuck. Now I have to take it apart
Pointing a propane torch at the pilot, turn your Mr. Buddy on and it will burn off any thing inside. Worked for me. You can also remove two screws underneath, remove the cover and unscrew the couplings. Need 1/2" and 9/16" open end wrenches. Remove rhe couplers and blow air through each side. Wipe away any oil or debris. Reconnect and then test or retry pointing the propane torch at the pilot with the heater on high.
Thanks for sharing .
Very helpful tips on cleaning the Buddy heater pilot light. Thanks Kevin 👍
Great video! My heater wouldn't start this season, so I did the q-tip thing with Everclear and started right up. Mine is around 20 years old & still works perfectly. I was wondering if you can switch the burner plates as I usually only the left plate on medium. Right plate has hardly any use on it. Both still work well, though.
I don't know i haven't ever tried that, sorry
A good a informative video. The oil will cause issues and can build up quite a lot. 👍
Thank you for watching.
Mine came with a filter and line for 20 lb. tank. But the oil still got through the filter and cost problems for the pilot light. I have replaced the filter every year. And on the small heater there's a screw that's a pain to get to, behind the black shield, up next to the control nob. So the easiest way to clean it is take the back off, by removing the two screws in the bottom corners, and the two screws on the top next to the handle. Then loosen the night on the line that goes to the pilot light assembly. And remove the small screw that holds the assembly to the black shield. So that you can slide it to the side to clear the way of the line. Use a air compressor to blow out the pilot light assembly. Then lay the heater on its face propped up on the side with the control valve, so that the oil can run out of line that goes to the pilot light. Leave it lay overnight. Then reassemble your heater. Put on a new filter, fire it up and let it run on high for about 30 minutes. And just repeat the process as needed.
I agree you need to use air pressure to clean out the lines .but unless you have a moister catch on your air compressor you will be getting water. Not good.. best to use compressed air cans you buy
Great point!
Thanks for the comment.
i wish we had more teachers like you on TH-cam man. the majority are full of BS.
Thanks so much i really appreciate that and thanks for watching.
Qtips will ruin your heater. It might work the few first times but will leave fibers that will carbonize and clog it. I have been through 6 of these heaters so far living off grid. Get a proper diameter wire brush, disassemble the heater and soak the fuel tube and thermocouple in solvent(making sure the thermocouple wires are not contacting the solvent), then hit the inside of the fuel tube with the "tube brush" flush with solvent again and repeat once or twice. let all parts dry completely, reassemble and use. Do it right the first time.....
Thanks for the info William
Howdy sir,, could you do the conversion kit to supply natural gas to big buddy and or the portable buddy heater. Thankyou sir.😊😊
From what i understand,, Mr heater has a wall heater that works on both natural gas and propane..
And there is supposed to be a conversion kit for buddy heaters as well.
I am thinking this might be good in my cabin on the mountain 😊😊😊
I haven't seen a conversion kit for the buddy heaters so i'm not sure about that , sorry i couldn't help.
Awesome 👌 clip thanks I'll try it. Hope my heater works again.
Please let me know if it works.
I sure will. I bought my heater brand new, and I used it for 3 winters. Worked perfectly, but this time started with issues.
Very good tips Kevin......CHEERS
Thank you Gator.
Excellent Kevin. Many thanks .
Glad you enjoyed it
The big buddy seams way friendly than the original regarding taking apart.
Keyboard cleaner down the exhaust hole did the trick.
Mine was gurgling and making noises.
Not any more. 🤗
Thanks for the tip, that's great to know it worked for you!
@ Absolutely. It’s still working a week after spraying down the exhaust hole.
I’ve heard others also say to lean it on its left side overnight. (Facing it)
Left side lean. 👍
Very helpful step by step video. My pilot flame is 2x as big as before, but the tip is still orange and it is weak so it flows up and not over to the thermocouple. Any other ideas?
I'm pretty sure the pilot has an air adjustment on it little flap of metal I think you need to adjust it.
@@Robinson-HomesteadWhere?
Worked like a charm !!!! Thank you for doing this.
Neat trick, thanks. What causes the pilot orifice to get clogged in the first place - dust or what? Also, what's on the end of the pilot hole? Does your air come out somewhere or maybe it runs into the fuel line? Wonderin what all the air is reaching inside the heater.
Typically it will just be a problem at and near where the pilot flame comes out though right? I want to avoid ever having to take the thing apart :)
Thanks again
Yes it's just dust and sooner or later it will need cleaned.
It is dust and sorry to say but sooner or later you will have to clean your also lol.
@@Robinson-Homestead Thanks y'all; dust is an issue for me and - fortunately, I just bought a hefty blower/vacuum for my PC. I should just blow or better even - vacuum it out maybe twice a month. Easy peasy!
Thanks again
I've been using brake cleaner. Quick, efficient and the pilot light works/looks as good as the day I purchased it.
EDIT: I've been using mine for 3 seasons working on number 4.
Thanks for the info.
Really enjoyed this informative video. Wonder what other sides plumbing looks like where quick connect is. The Q-tip trick seems to have worked for me cause it produced a much stronger flame after the swab. Also thinking a pipe cleaner mite do it but q-tios are usually more convenient...thanks
Thanks you are a great help. Your videos are very detailed.
Thank you so much for the comment glad to help.
Thanks you! I like to learn the most I can about anything that I work on and you definitely help! Great videos! I got the 12 ft buddy heater hose and seen some say you don’t need a filter with that hose. Do you think I should get a filter anyways?
I have a video on that mr buddy heater pilot issues th-cam.com/video/O8fy4NKdlNU/w-d-xo.html
Great video. Novice owners can appreciate.
I'm glad you found it helpful, thanks for watching!
Great video Kevin!
Very detailed and nicely explained.
Thank you, and happy holidays to you and your family.
Oh! And to your subscribers too!!!
Thank You I will give it a try.. Happy New Year.😊
You're welcome, Happy New Year!
How do you put a filter on these? The oil seems to be a common problem.
This one of my videos th-cam.com/video/XXTBy6AAr04/w-d-xo.html
wide range of sure fixes for 20lb tanks,
lines. early step in troubleshoot should be test with 1 lb,
bypass problems associated with hoses, filters, check valves. one can do a lot of fixing, only to find that heater itself works fine, been there.
Thanks for your comment
Good info well illustrated
Glad it was helpful!
Great video. Thank you for your time.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for the comment.
Kevin, your video was very well laid out. Unfortunately, this has not solved my problem. Being in the natural gas instrumentation industry, your approach is very pragmatic, but I suspect the problem is in the regulator. There is clearly a restriction of flow as the panels will not light even if the pilot stays lit prior to attempting to ignite the first panel. Again, very good video but it’s time to contact the manufacturer. Everything in your video is a spot on approach to solving most problems.
Tip over switch. Short the wires together and see if it runs.
Can the regulators fail such that there is too much gas flow? That is the problem I'm having. I'm wondering if blowing it out with shop air kills the regulators.
Wow - impressive ! I enjoyed it.. nice job.
Thank you.
Good information to know, and thanks.
Your welcome and thank for watching.
Thanks for this video. I get a nice blue flame now, but the pilot won’t stay lit. Any thoughts on what else I can try?
Sounds like you might need a new thermocoupler.
I think you're right! @@Robinson-Homestead
Now I have a question for you on a wall mount propane heater, the plastic knob that controls the gas on and off,, pilot ignition , is held on the top of the gas control valve by a brass screw and a spring underneath of it,, that lets you push down on it as you turn it on and off and for the pilot light.. The head of the brass screw snapped off flush to the top of the metal valve that it threads into.. It's a very small screw and would you have any suggestions on how I can get that piece of screw out of there, before having to try using a very small drill bit and take a chance on messing up threads.. I know I may not have any other choice than trying to drill it out but figured I would ask you first since I was on here watching your video and it reminded me of the heater issue I have
A very small drill bit may be necessary to get a very small "easy out" bit in to grab the screw. If you can find one that small.
Drill bits rotate clockwise.
Easy outs rotate counter clockwise so when it bites the broken screw or bolt it unscrews it.
If you have to drill the whole thing out, you may be able to re-tap the threads.
@@LarryMorrow2 the good thing about it is the bolt is made of brass and if I can find a very small drill bit and easy out, then it should back out with no problem but I still worry about damaging the threads on the control valve box and the Honeywell brand replacement gas valve control is like $160 but I might try to find a messed up heater and see if I can used to complete gas valve out of one and put it in another as long as it's got the three gas line hookups but I figure I'll run into a PSI rating or something along those lines that I have to stay within and I'm not familiar at all with the internal parts in those type of heaters see what parts are possibly interchangeable and I hope I can get it fixed because it's a real good heater
@@goldhunter9641 I forgot to mention that once I used several stainless steel self tapping sheet metal screws to both drill a hole and tap threads into a block of aluminum. Using each one as a disposable drill bit, in and out, in and out, until I was able to make screw holes next to the broken bolt in my old van, and successfully re-mounted the thermostat housing.
The broken bolt also had a broken easy out stuck in it. Lol!
If you damage the threads, you may still be able to force a new screw into it.
That part sounds already broken and worth a try.
Compressed air is flammable! Let it air out after using it fr. Caught my rug on fire few years ago doing this (it works tho just give it a min)
Thanks for the comment and for watching.
I remove the gas orifice and soak in alcohol for an hour. Works like a charm.
Thanks for sharing.
Very helpful. Thank you Kevin
Thanks... the line was full of oil! I was running no filter.
Just wondering how to clean my new filter when it blocks?
Not sure I will look into it to see if it can be cleaned.
Thanks for the comment.
Thank you Sir!!!! Never knew how to clean one out, does this refer to all Mr. Buddy Heaters or just this specific model's??
You can clean them all the same way, thanks for watching.
Awesome training video for newbies to Mr. Buddy's heaters!! Thanks for sharing!
Glad you enjoyed it
I just used a pipe cleaner soaked in goof off. shoved it down there spun around and it works like charm
Thanks for sharing.
I thought the oil in the line comes from using the wrong hose. Some of the hoses would break down over time and tiny droplets of oil came out of them. I believe that's why some hoses say use a filter and others say no filter needed
No hose use here but I have these problems
According to Mr. Heater the oil comes from the hose used to connect to 20lb tanks under high pressure, you can get hoses the don’t release any oil under pressure to use with a 20lb tank or use the quick connect hose the has a regulator on it that connects to a fitting on the left side in where the cylinder goes. (Those hoses come in lengths up to 24 foot on Amazon for around $30)
Mr Heater sells a hose where a filter isn't needed, but it's expensive. If you use a regular hose, you need a filter
@@RonL-y3vI use one of those hoses with a filter. Still have problems.
@@catherineostrom7575 maybe just try a keyboard can spray in the outlet.
It fixed mine.
The q tip got stuck in my second to last one which plugged it up.
I’d rather use a gun cleaning thing that you can use. Something that you can get at an arts or craft store.
I dont have brake cleaner. I don't have air compressor. Son-in-law just opened the lines and drained stuff. I've cleaned the pilot orifice. I use Mr Heater special hose and filter. Pilot just gurgles, maybe a yellow flame until the pilot knob is released.
Does the pilot light go back out after releasing the knob ?
@@Robinson-Homestead yes
You may need a thermo coupler
Great video ,thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it.
Thanks for the comment and watching.
Refilled 1lb cylinders also have excess oil that will kill a heat buddy fairly rapidly.
Thanks for the comment.
What if the head of the q-tip comes off and stays in the pilot light hole?
Dig it out
@@Robinson-Homestead It wouldn't dig. I ended up taking the fuel line off of the tube that supplies the pilot light and then it fell out. I enjoyed your video and found it helpful. Thanks.
I have a little buddy heater and the pilot kept going out. I cleaned the thermocouple and and there is a ground wire on the gas valve inside the unit. I cleaned the connection and it worked the season. The screw is steel and the valve is aluminum so it galvaniclly corroded.
I'm going to say you have dirt in your pallet light orifice need to clean the pallet.
Do you have to have both bottles in
I think it will work on one tank left side.
@@Robinson-Homestead thank you so much
Do I need a filter if I only use the small 1lb propane bottles?
No just on the bigger tanks.
no, the filter is for oils present inside the hoses that make them flexible after manufacturing. Therefore you only need a filter if you use a hose.
the mr. buddy brand hoses are made to be used without a filter. That might be worth picking up and paying the extra 10 dollars for
Well I need advice....I have a new Big Buddy heater straight out of the box. Have a new Mr Heater hose and a new Mr Heater filter. Hooked everything up and the attached to a full 20lb tank....the pilot lights with a beautiful blue flame quite easily. Move the dial to low and the pilot almost immediately peters out like i just ran out of propane and the element does not lite. What am I missing?
Sound like you got a bum heater, you shouldn't have those issues with a new heater i would return it and get another one, good luck and thanks for watching.
Does the pilot flame stay on after the element ignites or is it supposed to shut off?
Rich, you have to turn it off
The problem I have is the pilot light will light fine with a nice blue flame. But it will not stay lit when I go to turn the burners on. Sometimes I have to hold it for quite a while, several minutes before it will stay lit. Then sometimes after burning for a couple of minutes I hear a click and the whole thing shuts off.
Maybe lack of oxygen it has a oxygen sensor in it.
@@Robinson-Homestead I figured it out. Just had to lightly sand the outside of the thermocouple and now it works great.
If the pilot light clicker has failed how do you fix that?
I think you can buy a clicker for it .
I will look it over and if I can make a video for that problem.
Amazing!!
Thank you! Cheers!
Mine quit just a few minutes ago so I know what I have to do. Luckily I have two heaters, big and a backup little one. Fun times ahead cleaning stuff. Oh yeah..almost out of propane so a long drive ahead to go get tanks refilled.. The thrills of getting old. If you're using an air compressor might not be a bad idea to keep a air line filter to keep compressor gunk from spitting all over everywhere and drain the water out of the tank..I used to paint cars for a living so it will blow stuff in things you might not appreciate if you don't filter your air lines.
Thanks for watching.
Just purged the line and turned tank on slow 3 times,pilot lights right up,low will not light,good on medium,still sputtering on low,and yes took it apart 3 times blew all lines and cotton swab deal,,,uggh,help please,thanks
My pilot light comes on strong and stays on as long as you hold the knob. Once you let go of the knob it immediately turns off and the light goes out. I've cleaned it thoroughly with a q-tip but still nothing. Any ideas what my issue might be?
th-cam.com/video/O8fy4NKdlNU/w-d-xo.html Hope this video helps, thanks for watching.
The air compressor trick just worked for me. Tried a q tip. And tried a pipe cleaner like normal... wasnt working.
Thanks for sharing.
The chance that you will have what you need to fix this while camping is next to none. Do not rely on propane heaters for survival. It will let you down at the most crucial moments. Pure frustration.
Thanks for the comment and watching.
How often do you change your filter?
once a year for mine.
How did you get the red cap off? Mine doesn't come off like that
Did you pull straight up on it that is how i got mine off?
I have a brand new one, after only 1 tank, pilot goes out. This is the third heater with this problem. Is there such a thing as bad propane?
Oh man i'm not sure but maybe try a different bottle of propane, good luck.
@Robinson-Homestead I discovered the problem. Lack of proper ventilation will cause the problem. I was showing signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, then the detector sounded. Lesson learned.
Can we use anything other than brake cleaner?
You can use starter fluid but blow out the line real good to dry it,thanks for watching.
Be careful not to turn the ignitor while still wet.
Thank you From the Tx coast
Thank you for watching.
Just got a portable buddy for Christmas can't get it to stay lit more that 10 minutes straight out of the box I bought the 20lb adapter hose and filter have cleaned the pilot but it still shuts off I can relight it right away but it's keeps going out?
I would try it without the 20 lb tank , try with the 1 lb tank and see if that helps,if not return it if you can good luck.
Did you u watch mr rogers growing up
No but I watched a lot of Bob Ross lol
Comes on strong, but when you raise the selector it cuts off.
Not sure I will look in to that.
Turn tank off, 10 seconds flame goes out, hose is empty. Turn flame valve off. To restart, turn tank on slowly, turn burner on and light. The hose can not have pressure left in it because Propane is oil and the oil separates and clogs the hose over a few days so this is the correct way to turn off the burner when the hose goes a distance before the proprietary regulator for the burner. A barbecue pit hose does not have this problem because the regulator is at the tank valve.
Thanks for your comment.
They need this info in north Carolina
Thanks for watching.
My pilot will light, but when i try to light the unit, pilot goes out, how do i clean my thrrmal coupling
Did you watch my video I have on the pilot light issues?
My pilot light goes off every time o try and click to ignite heating plate. And it will also just turn off after i so get it going. Any ideas what is causing that problem?
Did you try cleaning the pilot light?
I did, not the issue 🙁
I have this problem as well. Except then i used a qtip, and it will not light at all. What a childish suggestion this is.
Used a filter and now it's good to go!
@@haruwright7410 you clip the cotton off the tip first, pretty simple 101.
Mine is lighting, but flames are coming out of top
Maybe bad regulator