These superb
precision crafted models are built to a scale
of one inch to
the foot, one-twelfth full size and are as
close to
the original
as possible whilst remaining a practical working model.
There are two
basic types available, the
Traction
Engine and the Steam Lorry, each model having its own
particular
appeal.
The Traction
Engines are based on the products of the foremost British manufacturer;
Charles Burrell and Co once of Thetford, Norfolk, England. The Burrells are
available
in both coal and gas (Propane/Butane) fired versions,
whereas the
lorries are gas fired only.
The coal
fired Burrell is equipped with both hand and crank-shaft pumps, there is a
water tank in the tender with a bypass
valve to
control the water feed. When working well a coal fired engine is capable of
providing more steam and is more powerfui
than a gas
fired engine.
The gas-fired
engine has a hand held
pump for
boiler feed and a Propane/Butane tank in the tender. The
tank is simply
filled from a gas canister of the type used with camping
stoves. Once full it will run the engine for 45 minutes of hard
work or for
over an hour running light.
The fire is
so easily controlled by regulating the gas valve, this is the better choice
if you are uncertain of coal firing.
Gas will run
out before the water if both are started full, though extra water can be
added with the hand pump during the run. Both gas and coal versions work at
a powerful 60 pounds boiler pressure and will pull an adult along on level
concrete or tarmac.
A Iow loader
is available for riding which has 16 wheels, all with needle roiler bearings
and tyres. It is necessary
to equip the engine with rubber tyres if
heavy loads
are to be pulled. (This is a no cost
option
on the agricultura! engine in place of the strakes fitted as standard)
All of the
Burrells will run over rough grass satisfactorily
and can be left to go around in circles or
with a scale load in tow such
as
the Living van or
trailer. They
will also belt drive other scale machinery,
if the belt is set up accurately.
There is an
optional radio control system available
for both the
Road and Showmans' engines.
(n.b. Standard
equipment on the Lorries). This
gives control
over speed and direction but as a
single cylinder
engine, once stopped the engine
will not
start until the flywheel is turned - reversing
is also
manual.
When in
neutral the engine will run
stationary, the brake working on a drum mounted
on the second shaft and will hold the
engine in
position.
Full Stephensons Link valve gear is fitted with lever control
over forward, reverse and notch up positions.
The Lubricator is of the displacement type and is mounted on the foot board
or belly
tank, disguised as a tooibox. It contains enough oll for a couple of hours
running, oil flow being controlled by a needle valve.
A differential is available as an optional extra, for a fully authentic
model.
All engines are supplied in fully machined kit, painted kit and
ready to run
versions. Some special tools are required, especially
the small spanners and drills suited to
the 6, 8 and 10 B.A. bolts used. Many parts are supplied with one set of
holes which when lined up with
the next component can be drilled through and bolted on. This does not apply
to the more complicated parts such
äs the
cylinder which requires no drilling.
Rear wheels are part assembled
whilst the front
wheels require assembly, small copper rivets are
included in the kit.