Jeff, make one of these, and see if it works any better. My son is hiking the PCT this summer, and this is his stove of choice. All the stuff he's read is that all the stores near the PCT crossroads carry the alcohol fuel (Heat). (I think his does not have the fiberglass. Looks like a good modification.)

video: Make a Pepsi can stove

To find plenty more about it, just Google Pepsi can stove.


I see what you mean about the cold being a problem. Even the video shows preheating the can. Need to build up a little more evaporation.