3 inch scale Fowler A7

A new, unsteamed 3 inch scale Fowler A7 agricultural engine, built to the MJ Engineering design.

This one has come to us from a long time customer, a highly capable engineer who produces some of the finest 5 inch standard gauge locomotives we've seen - regular readers may also remember the 1 1/2 inch scale Fowler B6 which he'd restored and lined out to exhibition finish in between locomotive jobs (and no, we've no idea where he finds the time!)

Last worked on five years ago, since when he's been head-down on BR Standard Class locomotives, the A7 has been built, painted and lined to exhibition standard - we'd put it at better than 95% complete.

The CE-marked boiler was supplied new by Western Steam and is complete with manufacturer's documentation and initial shell test certificate.

Standard of machining, fit and finish is to an excellent standard throughout, the platework is neatly formed and fitted.

Work remaining to complete includes:

• Paint and fit steering chains
• Finish reach rod to length, machine notches in reverser quadrant
• Fit gaskets and gland packings
• Make and fit pipework for mechanical pump
• Fit whistle chain and attachment post
• Make lid for guide bar oil pot

There is a small scuff mark on the flywheel rim which needs touching in with satin black and relining, as shown in the photograph opposite.

Complete with a set of drawings, builder's notes including photographs of the build and CAD drawings, along with a box of sundry parts including steering chain and turnbuckles, oil pots and Fowler works plates.