Sold March 2006 Back to Archive

Built in 1975 by a talented engineer who went on to build two half size Bagnalls and a 6 inch scale traction engine, as well as many 5 inch gauge boilers for fellow club members, this engine was built for his own use on a portable miniature railway used to tour local fetes and rallies.

Although of freelance design, the builder had a Greenly-like sense of proportion and understanding of function, giving the engine an entirely plausible look - bit A1-ish from the right angle. The valve gear, again like Greenly's designs, is substantially built and all bearing surfaces are on the generous side. Extremely well put together in the first place and having spent its entire life in the hands of the builder (which is usually a pretty good guarantee of informed maintenance and sensible driving) the engine shows little signs of its age.

Steel boiler with expanded tubes, feed by twin injectors, twin safety valves, working pressure 100psi. Two cylinders, inside slide valve actuated by Stephenson's valve gear with pole reverser in cab. Mechanical lubricator.

The tender has a removeable seat with toolbox beneath. There is a screw-on and lever operated brake which are effective. Driver's footpegs just forward of the front tender axle - they are well-placed and, combined with the high seat, make driving very comfortable (even when you're 6' 5").

There is a substantial lined crate which the engine lives in, around 120 feet of portable track, a braked bogie passenger sit-astride passenger carriage and a water tower. The ticket board still with the outfit declares "Adults and children 20p" - probably needs updating in line with inflation, after that you've got a ready made business. No more 9-5 drudgery, become a railway owner and make your fortune...

It's just had a new boiler certificate, goes very well and is ready to use.

Length 9' 3" including tender
Weight approx 700 pounds
Driving wheels 10 inch diameter