Hi there, working on Optimus 45 that had and impossibly stuck non-return valve I tried every trick I could find on the forum other than buying a custom-made tool. Finally removed the tube unsoldered the end and of course the NRV is ruined as I had to remove it with a bolt extractor. It was put on without a lead washer with what appears to have been superhuman strength. Surprising the thread of the NRV and threads on tube cap are in good shape, but of course the aftermarket NRV is a no go on the threads. I have looks at the 10 pages of NRV thread on the forum. I hate to tap out the original threads to 8 mm X .75. Looking for any suggestions. I want to put it back in working order.
Use an original type NRV, another member had issues recently too. Guessing both of you bought from the seller on the bay. His are only good for parts(internal parts, lead washer). Duane PS: One of my old 45's has a very slight weep out the NRV too, even with my fancy tool it won't come out, so I have left it, not caring to mess up the patina.
I agree with you on a stove that works with a mild flaw not restoring to save the patina. This stove is not particularly pretty and had a tank full of gunk, burner gummed up, non-working NRV, perished washers throughout and a bad pump I originally thought to give it away to someone but had some time so here I am trying to restore it. I bought a brunch of rebuild supplies a few years ago, plan was always to rebuild rather than replace parts. I'm sure the NRV I have wouldn't pass quality control. I know it sounds crazy, but I took the one out of my Primus 100 and it fits like a charm, at least I know now it's the bad NRV. I have decided to just find an original and not mess up the threads on the pump since I know they're good.
