5 inch gauge "Simplex" 0-6-0T

A 5 inch gauge "Simplex" 0-6-0T, an engine which - despite its looks - appears to have only been test-steamed from new.

The boiler has had a twice working pressure hydraulic test with new certification issued.

The steam pipe from the wet header is in stainless steel and, even when nipped up, leaks - it needs stripping and a seal put in. There were minor leaks from the wet header joint - which needs a new gasket - and blower pipe union.

The mechanical pump works, although requires its gland repacking.

On air the engine ran well in forward gear with crisp, well-defined exhaust beats - less confident in reverse.

Paintwork is poor, it's been applied to the brass platework without primer - best thing to do would be to remove the affected parts, strip what remains of the paint and start again.