7 1/4 inch gauge Ruston petrol hydraulic shunter

A substantially built 7 1/4 inch narrow gauge petrol-hydraulic shunter.

Built on a heavy steel chassis, power is provided by a Honda GX100 single cylinder four stroke petrol engine, belt-coupled to a hydrostatic transmission with chain and sprocket final drive to the wheelsets.

Controls are sensibly laid out in the cab, comprising a large handwheel for the hydrostatic transmission, forward-neutral-reverse selector and engine controls.

The locomotive is fitted with a substantial fabricated steel body, complete with wooden dumb buffers and centre couplings. Access to the machinery is good, with hinged bonnet panels exposing the the engine and transmission.

In good mechanical condition, it started up freely and runs in both directions.

A triumph of good observation and proportions over fine detailing - it's got a very authentic narrow-gauge aspect, evocative of any number of full-size railways we've visited over the years.