On Mon, 13 Oct 2003 18:49:37 +0000, Doug Kanter wrote:

Having just browsed some discussions in backpacking newsgroups, it seems
alcohol stoves generally stink for lots of reasons, including the ones
you've mentioned. So, a question: Does anyone use propane stoves in
boats? If there are no safety reasons NOT to, you have tons of options.
Just measure your space and wander a few sporting goods stores with a
tape measure in hand.

Ever since I ripped the alcohol stove out of my Cal25 following many, many
fires (and had a friend throw his out the companionway - while on
fire...), I've been using propane. I've had various propane "sniffers",
but find the most reliable is in the center of my face. (and a bit of
Common Sense: you don't check for leaks with a match...)

Other alternatives are kerosene and diesel - they both require preheat,
but once going are WAY hotter (and safer) than alcohol. You may be able to
find a kerosene burner to drop in in place of the alcohol.

Lloyd Sumpter
"Far Cove" Catalina 36 - 2-burner Force 10 with oven.