Sold April 2009 Back to Archive

Another rarely-seen engine these days, LBSC's "P.V.Baker" - it's a largish 3 1/2 inch gauge tank engine, similar size to his "Vera" but featuring piston valves and Baker valve gear.

This one came from a collection where it hadn't been run in many years. It's a well-made engine, fit and finish of the motion is good. Cab roof and rear cab sheet are missing, almost certainly removed many years ago for ease of driving.

Boiler is silver-soldered copper construction, 80psi work pressure, fitted with superheaters. Cylinder in gunmetal, piston valves actuated by Baker valve gear with pole reverser in cab.

The boiler had had a twice pressure hydraulic test and is sound, Geoff steamed the engine on Tuesday afternoon. It steams quickly and runs well, the home made injector has probably never worked from new and wants replacement with a small commercial one. Hand pump needs a service, it leaks water.

A worthwhile project, it would produce a decent-sized tank engine ideal for club running.

Length 25 inches
Weight 52 pounds