Is this an AP Model Engineering ready to run model/ kit build? I’ve been looking at them but not sure what they are like as I can’t find any videos or pictures. Thank you
@@steamengineerPMW thank you, I’ve been looking at the AP ME ready to run models but I can’t find any photos or videos to show what it looks like when finished. Thank you again
Indeed, it's actually a working set up, that started life many years ago when building materials needed to be moved around the site. It continues that role to this day, but also plays host to TBHMEG....
Indeed, it's actually a working set up, that started life many years ago when building materials needed to be moved around the site. It continues that role to this day, but also plays host to TBHMEG....
Matt Seymour, hi. The boiler was constructed and the locomotive first passed for steaming on 11th August 1968. The boiler is not superheated and is therefore not standard. With a superheated standard boiler I should think it would go like a rocket!
Thanks for the info. Will go to a steam engineering place. Thanks for the offer but have all the drawings for the loco etc and parts I need. It only really needs the boiler and firebox and steam fittings for the cab as the tender and chassis are all finished. Would you say about £500 for the boiler?
The reason why I ask is because just bought a 4f I. This gauge and so wondered how strong she will be. Need a boiler for her and fittings to finish her but she will look great when finished. How much would a boiler cost for her?
Hi Matt, the cost of boilers is very variable I have found. My 4F was first steamed on the 11th August, 1968 by my uncle who had built her. She still has the same boiler which remains sound thankfully. I can only suggest contacting say three boiler makers and getting their best prices. My 4F is a plain saturated boiler, no superheater flues or elements, I believe the standard design boiler has either one or two sh flues. I have a set of drawings somewhere... Do you need a boiler drawing?
@@steamengineerPMW Hi There thanks for your comment. I went with a company after 3 quotes all quite different actually. Does your boiler steam well and is the grate a good size? how big?
Hi Matt, the boiler does steam fairly well. Quality and cleanliness of the coal make the big difference as once you get a small amount of clinker in the fire the steaming rate will reduce. I will photograph and measure the boiler and fire grate later and email to you. My boiler does not have any Superheater flues! Saturated steam all the way!! I will be in touch soon with further details...
Matt Seymour hi Matt, I've not really run the loco on a level track...also only ever hauled one coach... So to date I'd say three adults or four kids is the max I've hauled with the 4F. I used to run her at Ellington Park Ramsgate, which is largely a level track, but that was before overhaul and she wasn't as strong. It was also a long time ago!
Matt Seymour I see there is quite a nice looking 3.5" G 4F on the Stn Rd Steam website at the moment...if it's as good as my one it makes a jolly good compact man portable loco....
It's been a few years since running the 4F but it' was just standard Anthracite Beans....and old stock... I don't think the anthracite supplied these days is as good. There are only five firebars with a good gap between them.. Giving a good air flow through the fire and allows Ash to fall out. Too many engines I think have too fine firegrates.
Increase the water feed to the boiler by closing the valve... clockwise. Reduce the feed to the boiler by opening the valve (anticlockwise) causing the the pumped water to by-pass back into the saddle tank...
Helen Yeeles Maxitrak have batches of various 5" & 7.25" gauge locomotives ready to run off the shelf, although I believe the latest batch of ALICE Hunslet is sold out. Check out their website.... maxitrak.com/ Always helpful and also have second hand models available.
wooltman. Thank you for your comments. Yes, a few tweaks and she runs very well. Home made auto cylinder drain cocks...worked well except front left which would not close reliably. Hopefully solved now and ready for another run....when time permits!
That's the axle pump bypass valve. Adjust towards being closed puts water into the boiler. Open tje valve and the water recirculates back to the saddle tank. The axle pumps pumps all the time the engine is in motion.
How many people do you find your 3 1/2" gauge 4F can haul? I have an LBSC design 3 1/2" "Maisie" Atlantic and she can manage about 4 people possibly even more if the tracks aren't slippery.
