How do I make the leather washer in the plunger for a Tilley lamp expand?

Question

How do I make the leather washer in the plunger for a Tilley lamp expand?

Answer 1

it should be just like a coleman, soak it in oil 2-3 hrs. than work it in with your fingers and install on the pump rod push down the cylinder and oil again hope she works nothing like bring an old lantern back to life.please light it outside

Answer 2

try soaking it in oil

Answer 3

It would be simpler and easier to buy a new washer from one of the many sellers of 'tilley' pattern spare parts on eBay.

You can get mantles, vapourisers, leather washers, pre-heater spirit burners and glasses.