We have tiki torches that I bought last year and never used. We filled the 'tanks' with lamp oil as per directions and let them soak, but can't get the things to light! I was so disappointed.
You mentioned "lamp oil" per the instructions. But most of the tiki torches I have seen require "tiki torch fuel." Lamp oil, I think, is different, and is for indoor lamps. If what you bought is clear fluid, perhaps sold in a vaguely lava lamp-shaped bottle, it's almost definitely the wrong type of fuel.
I would suggest maybe going to a hardware store and getting a jug of tiki torch fuel. It usually comes in a clear gallon jug with a built-in handle and is translucent yellow in color. I think it's often scented with citronella.
Then maybe see about replacing the wicks. You should find them in the same area as the fuel. Let 'em suck up the fuel for a bit and then light 'em.
'Course, you posted your message in July, and the tiki torch season is likely well over by now. But maybe you can use this info for next season!
I'm not exactly sure what the problem is but your wicks have been contaminated with the fuel. Perhaps the fuel was bad. If you change to an another fuel, you should purchase new wicks. Sorry. The best, economical fuel for your tiki torch is tiki torch fuel. There are a variety out there that are quite inexpensive. There are also new, non-petroleum-based tiki fuels which burn with noticeably less soot, smoke and are odorless.
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How long does the wick have to soak on a tiki torch?
Approximately 30 minutes for new ones. Also make sure that your wick is 1/4 to 1/2 inch from the top of your torch!
