1 1/2 inch scale Allchin traction engine "Royal Chester"

A 1 1/2 inch scale Allchin agricultural engine to the detailed "Royal Chester" design by Bill Hughes.

We don't know much about the history on this one. Possibly built as one of a pair, it's been on display for the last twenty years showing signs of little - if any - use.

The fit of the gear selector and reverser are slightly loose, as are the bolts on the gear guard, and the lubricator pawl doesn't mesh with the operating wheel, but we'd class these firmly as minor commissioning jobs rather than fundamental faults.

It runs nicely in both directions with crisp, even beats. The regulator leaks slightly - not enough to self-open, but enough to creep open to full if left running unsupervised.

On hydraulic test we found a weep from the foundation ring, alongside several leaky fittings. We suspect that this could be repaired easily enough, though the boiler would have to be removed with care taken not to damage the paintwork.

Paintwork and lining has been done to a high standard and remains in good condition.