A finely made model Snow double-acting tandem gas engine, the originals driving huge compressors for pumping natural gas in America. A few have survive into preservation, from the handy-sized little 600hp engines at 75 feet long and 140 tons, up to the 1100hp engines with 18 feet diameter flywheel and weighing in at around 225 tons. And we thought working on our Fowler roller was heavy work...
Built by Ron Webb of Brisbane, a prolific modeller who made many fine, technically interesting engines. It came to the UK in 2013 with several of his other engines, before being sold to join a fine private collection of stationary and road steam engines in Canada.
The engine has been built to an exhibition finish, most of the brightwork is in stainless steel. Like many of the builder's engines, it has been mounted on a plinth and motorised, such that it can be seen turning over. I don't think the wooden "G-plan" base with rubber-belt drive to the engine adds anything - it's nothing like the quality of the metalwork, I'd scrap it in a heartbeat! It really wants a more authentic engine-house plinth (and I'd lose the motor too).
Engine itself is in superb condition and turns over smoothly. Electrics are an unknown quantity and will need to be tested by somebody qualified in such things before use (unless you throw them away...)
