ST,  That all makes sense and I tend to agree it has to do with that seal....I had other issues too, like too low gas output, yellow flames coming out lower than top of burner, no gas flow, etc.  Which sounds like what you described.  I did get both cylinders at the same WalMart and off the shelf next to each other.  When I get a chance to try the burners/cylinders again I'll let you know what happens.  ;)