Mr Buddy heater problem

Try changing out the canister.

Try using compressed air and blow out around the pilot light area

Are you holding the pilot light down for 30-60 sec after it's lite? Then turn to HIGH till the element gets bright red then you can go to HI or LO.
One thing I did find out a couple years ago is it won't run @6000+ feet el.

goducks10 wrote:
Are you holding the pilot light down for 30-60 sec after it's lite? Then turn to HIGH till the element gets bright red then you can go to HI or LO.
One thing I did find out a couple years ago is it won't run @6000+ feet el.

Yes and yes. And I am at sea level.

From the manual:

If Heater keeps shutting “OFF” during normal operation.
CHECK
• Pilot is blocked – clean pilot, see MAINTENANCE.
• Provide minimum fresh air opening of 9 square inches (example 3” x 3” opening).
• Tip over switch activated from bumping heater. Re-light.
• Regulator defective - Replace regulator.
• Internal contamination - Replace control valve and regulator.
• Call Technical Services for additional information.

But it doesn't "keep shutting off".....it just does it that once, the first light, and then it is fine.

vtchris wrote:
But it doesn't "keep shutting off".....it just does it that once, the first light, and then it is fine.

Hold the button longer.

I have to hold the pilot down for 30 seconds or so, then when I move the switch to whatever setting (low, high, medium) it stays lit until shut off or it runs out of propane.

Sounds like the pilot flame is weak and not making good contact to the thermocouple. Try doing what Don suggested,

Well it turns out that I wasn't waiting long enough after the pilot light was lit. Now that I hold it down for a good 30-60 seconds (before I was just holding it down for "a bit") Mr. Buddy stays lit. Pays to follow directions!