I think that BBQ starter fluid is basically kerosine. Interesting that
you mention the odor of liquid parafin. I have been using liquid
parafin in my oil lamps for years and it has absolutely no odor.
That was the whole point of using it.

Doug
s/v Callista

"Jeff Fisher" wrote in message
...
I noticed that BBQ starter fluid (Wal Mart brand) seems to be basically
the same as liquid paraffin. It looks the same in a clear glass, it has
far less scent that liquid paraffin (I was surprised at this),
approximately the same viscosity, it burns very similarly (when poured
on a rag), the smoke produced looks and smells the same and since I have
several large oil lamps onboard, and lamp oil costs about US$ 12/gal.
while starter fluid is US$8 /gal (maybe less) I ask:
Does anyone (chemically knowledgeable) know if "BBQ starter fluid" is a
valid substitute for "liquid paraffin". If not, does anyone know of a
less expensive substitute ?