5 inch gauge "Simplex" 0-6-0

A 5 inch gauge 0-6-0T to Martin Evans' freelance "Simplex" design, complete with purpose-built carrying crate.

Boiler is a silver soldered copper job by Western Steam, a beautifully made thing which, by the colour of firebox and front tubeplate, appears to have had little use since the locomotive was completed.

Built to a reasonable standard, the chassis will require some work over winter - one expansion link touches the bottom of the running board when running, there is play in the motion work and valve gear, we suspect built in from new rather than the result of wear.

In steam the engine runs in both directions, safety valves accumulate and require servicing or replacement.