This experience was thought-provoking, and many of D.M.L.’s ideas were interesting. But there were two ideas that have not been tested or proven, so at this point they are only ideas. First, J-B Weld
Second, the pump on an old Coleman white gas stove usually has a leather gasket in it that dries out so it won’t seal. Use a pliers to pry off the C-ring and disassemble the pump. Massage some vegetable oil into the leather gasket to fluff up the leather and put it back together. Be careful and don’t put the leather gasket in up side down. Usually the pump will work unless it was so bad it was cracked. Don’t use motor oil on leather; it will deteriorate. Like D.M.L., I used to rely on my Coleman stove and lanterns for emergencies, but I got tired of rehabilitating those leather gaskets. I found a [Chinese] propane canister stove at 99 Ranch Market for $15 with 8 oz propane canisters for $1. I picked up ten of the canisters. Your local Asian market should carry them. This setup is very highly reviewed on Amazon.com, which also stocks them.
I love your blog. I’d like to contribute when I can. – R.E.R. in San Diego