Which simple mobile steam model?

This topic has 10 replies, 7 voices, and was last updated 18 June 2021 at 10:43 by Bo’sun.

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16 June 2021 at 13:59 #550039
YouraT
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@yourat
Hi all.

My son has expressed an interest in making a mobile (road, track, something…) steam model with me over the summer holidays.

I have a decently equipped workshop, but have always leant towards clocks and the tools required for them rather than anything model or steam related.

My question is – any tips and pointers towards a published design for a steam model that will:

– move under its own power
– *might* take to having RC added for steering
– is preferably gas fired
– and most importantly, will be easy to complete over a relatively short number of weeks with me and an 11yo boy doing the work (him under close supervision, of course).

Faithful resemblance to a full scale steam machine is of no consequence whatsoever, simplicity is the name of the game.

Thoughts?

Thanks,

Youra.
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16 June 2021 at 13:59 #28224
YouraT
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@yourat
16 June 2021 at 14:41 #550044
Adrian R2
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@adrianr2
Perhaps the MyfordBoy simple steam traction engine? I haven't actually tried to build it but it would seem to be well thought out and he advertises a set of castings and plans for a reasonable price.
16 June 2021 at 15:12 #550050
Former Member
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@formermember12892
[This posting has been removed]
16 June 2021 at 16:04 #550053
Tomek
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@tomek
Posted by Adrian R2 on 16/06/2021 14:41:54:

Perhaps the MyfordBoy simple steam traction engine? I haven't actually tried to build it but it would seem to be well thought out and he advertises a set of castings and plans for a reasonable price.

Myfordboy also built a Cracker locomotive which might be of interest. Look it up on YouTube. I can suggest building a simple oscillating steam engine and put it into a small boat. This could be easily converted to RC with couple of servos.

Tom
16 June 2021 at 17:59 #550065
YouraT
Participant
@yourat
Thanks guys

The MyfordBoy traction engine seems a very good possibility – I'll see what my son thinks – he's already just rejected the idea of a steam boat, even though I rather fancy one….!

Y.
17 June 2021 at 12:40 #550164
Bo’sun
Participant
@bosun58570
I like the look of the Traction Engine for my next project. Looks like I'll need buy a small mill and dividing mechanism to make the gears. Now there's a shame, isn't it.
17 June 2021 at 14:17 #550179
J Hancock
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@jhancock95746
Always , the G1 Project.

Faultless dimensioned drawings, just make it , it works.
17 June 2021 at 17:09 #550214
clivel
Participant
@clivel
Another option is "Ellie" The Steam Tram".

This looks to be an ideal model for the beginner. To quote the publishers:

The two major attractions of this design are its suitability for beginners, including younger builders with supervised access to a model engineer's workshop and, for the more experienced builder, the design lends itself to modification both in appearance and mechanically.

The book is available in either digital or hardcopy versions from Camden Miniature Steam along with some laser cut parts to speed up construction.

Clive
17 June 2021 at 22:14 #550254
YouraT
Participant
@yourat
Thanks guys

Further feedback from the young man in question has aimed things firmly at the MyfordBoy traction engine – we don't want to have to make/find/lay track to run it, and the price of the casting set is sensible, so we're going that way.

Thanks for the feedback!

Y.
18 June 2021 at 10:43 #550294
Bo’sun
Participant
@bosun58570
Good news,

Do let us know how the build progresses. You may have a budding Model Engineer in the making.
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