Sold May 2005 Back to Archive

Compound launch engine to Arthur Leak's design, published in "Model Engineer" with the castings and drawings available from Camden Miniature Steam Services. Designed for use in a 25-35 foot hull, the engine is rated at 11.2ihp at 450rpm on 120psi.

Twin cylinder, high pressure with piston valve, low pressure with slide valve, actuated by Stephenson's reversing gear. Main bearings fed by drip oilers, cylinders by mechanical lubricator. Three-bearing steel balanced crank.

The engine was built for use in a narrow boat - it has done very little work, spending a short working life coupled to the Sentinel boiler I currently have in stock, after which the entire plant was removed when the hull was sold to make way for a new project. Provisionally earmarked for a road vehicle project, along with the boiler, the owner has decided to move into steamrolling instead (sensible chap). The engine is well-made with no discernible wear. The cylinder cladding sheet paintwork is tatty and the drain cock plumbing, a later addition, has a certain agricultural charm...

Bore/stroke 3 + 5 x 3
Height 22 inches
Length 20 inches
Flywheel 8 inch diameter
Weight approx 150 pounds