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In 1926 Fowler supplied an 8nhp engine to Smiths Potato Crisps, one of largest general purpose traction engines they ever built. A distinctive looking engine with half canopy and huge, straked back wheels for working across the Fenland potato fields, it survives in preservation to this day.

The work of a prolific and talented builder (see this month's news page), this four inch scale model was completed in February of this year and exhibited at the Yorkshire Model Engineering Exhibition at Harrogate in May. It has been run on air but never steamed - it is brand new.

Steel boiler by Holt with expanded in tubes. Feed by second shaft-driven mechanical pump and injector. Twin Ramsbottom safety valves, working pressure 150psi - the boiler has its initial 300psi hydraulic test certificate and all paperwork.

Twin cylinder, slides valves actuated by Stephenson's valve gear with pole reverser in cab. Mechanical and displacement lubricators mounted on cylinder block. Pickering governor.

Two speed transmission with winch behind left hand rear wheel, fairleads mounted on tender.

The engine has been professionally painted, lined and signwritten to a high standard. The canopy is in maple using reclaimed floor timber from a dance hall which was demolished in Leeds (which gives a proper Fowler connection!).

An absolutely stunning engine, it stands chest high to me, nearly seven feet long and weighs around three quarters of a ton. I'll let the pictures do the talking but if you need any more information, give me a call and I'll enthuse over the phone for you!