This is my first attempt

[tim]

Hi all
I've been a member for ages but mainly viewing posts, I'm not into trains but I'm into model boats. And i find this forum great inspiration. So i thought it was about time to make a post myself and let you all see what I've been doing.
Ive been boat building for a long time but most recently fancied ago at steam, Has anyone got any plans of a marine steam engine that i could buy,beg borrow or steal (joking)
this is my first attempt at a steam engine 3/8 bore 1/2 stroke with 2 ball bearings on crank shaft and seen as your all steam buffs i would like any honest opinions either good or bad.

many thanks
Tim

[alanstepney]

Looks reasonable, and if it works, that is the most important thing. Oscillating engines are not very efficent, but they do perform and are easy to make.

Model Stationary And Marine Steam Engines by KN Harris is probably the best book, and will give you lots of information and some designs.

[tim]

hi alan
the engine does run on 15psi+, not sure what type of oil would be best also how long will it take to run it in ?
I have a copy of the book, im now looking at starting another project but im really not sure what engine to build next as im fairly new to this. I have a trojan castings but i really wanted to gain more experiance before i attemp it, any ideas?
thanks again
tim

[John Lee]

You need to use steam oil Tim, available from the usual ME suppliers and I would guess anybody who deals in model steam boats.

As you have the castings for Trojan that itself would be a good next bet. You could leave off the reversing gear until you have it running for simplicity.

[Shawki Shlemon]

How about some pictures and/or info on your boats . Boats, trains, etc.. all hobbies are interesting .We don't have to be all the same .Very nice little engine .

[abby]

Nice little engine Tim , I haven't built an oscillator for a few years , but seeing an article on porting some weeks ago prompts me to ask the question " Has anyone built a compound oscillator ?"
I will post this elsewhere to avoid spoiling your thread !
Abby.

[tim]

hi
thanks for your replys i will post some more pic's over the next few week's of my other models.
the steam engine is to be fitted into a steam drifter(not built yet)later this year.
cheers tim

[John Lee]

Tim, there is some steam oil on Ebay if you only need small amounts. 150089328228

Normally sold in 1/2 litres by the ME suppliers which might be overkill for now...

John

[paul]

Tim, I've built a couple of engines using this book...

www.amazon.co.uk/Making-Simple-Model-Steam-Engines/dp/1861267738

It's mainly oscillators of various types but there's also a clack-valve jobbie in there too.

[dscott]

A lovely first attempt Tim, I like to spend all my time making things, and even do this at work with a strange assortment of Sculpture students and work in all the materials known to mankind, yes even cow poo makes an excelent structure when mixed with a little water and pressed into a plaster shape. Very strong and light when dry. Could even make a boat hull from it by adding some waterproof glue.

The steam boat on lake Conistan has an interesting V engine and fits in so well with the hull.

It is lovely to see all sorts of model makers on this site.

David.

[Myford Matt]

David - reminds me of the old joke: what's brown and steaming and comes out of Cowes - the Isle of Wight ferry!

[tim]

hi all
I've taken the plunge and started the Trojan engine , (pic's later)i will be ordering some steam oil and the book mentioned by john lee / Paul, the more info the better.
cheers Tim