Top 4 “must-know” facts about Model Steam Engines

People investing on model steam engines and taking it up as a point of interest or passion is nothing new. The manufacturing of model steam engines goes back to the 19th century and people of all age groups enjoy assembling its parts and observing its mechanism.

If you planning to buy one for your house, then you must know some of the facts related to it. In this blog, I will tell you some of the most useful information related to Model steam engines. Take a look.

§  It is just not made for rail enthusiasts only – If you think that only people who are fascinated about rail mechanism should buy model steam engines, then you are wrong. It is beneficial for people who also take interest in other kinds of projects like pumps and tanks.

§  Consider the types available – You need to have adequate knowledge in order to assess what you need. There are various kinds of mechanisms available out of which you can choose the one you want. For example, you may buy engines which run on simple static electricity or the ones which are run by locomotive engines. There are simple designs which are old and belong to the 19^th century. Complicated models were manufactured from the 20^th century. So, don’t forget to read a few blogs and research adequately before settling for a particular model of Model Steam engines.

§  Manhandling can lead to trouble – There are various intricate parts and thus, don’t manhandle the parts. Because once you do that, it can get quite difficult to assemble it back without being an expert.

§  The “pocket burden” factor – They can be bought at a relatively low price if you contact reputed Model steam engine manufacturers. Take some time out and compare the prices before buying. Sometimes, you will also see that auctions are been offered. Keep a track if possible and purchase Model steam engines for sale.

So, these are some of the information which will help you when you plan of buying a model steam engine for yourself or for gifting it to someone.

How to Keep the Model Engine in Their Best Condition?

Keeping your model steam engine and boilers in good working order is important for obvious reasons. This is not really particularly difficult it is more a question of making the effort to do it. Attention to good lubrication is a good starting point, lubrication is essential for almost all mechanical mechanisms, take the time to study and research the lubrication requirements of your particular engine it can make a big difference to the performance and life of model steam engines.

Boilers generally don't need a great deal of maintenance, providing distilled water is used then there should be no deposits of calcium to contend with, calcification is one of the worst enemies of boilers the buildup of lime scale can block pipes in worst cases and also acts as internal insulation which will adversely effect the performance of the boiler. This can be removed retrospectively with the use of a weak or dilute acid but be very careful as acids may well adversely attack the materials the boiler is made from, commercially available kettle de-scalars can be a good as generally they are gentle and sympathetic to metals.

Where ever possible follow the manufactures guidelines when it comes to care and maintenance if unsure then contact them if possible.

Below are some steps you can follow to enhance the life or your models.

Dismantling; the pros and cons

As a general rule it is not good practice to start dismantling engines and boilers unless you have a good understanding of the subject, it is quite often the case that innocent tinkering can result in more problems than you started with. A good first step is to contact the original manufacture if this is possible and ask their advice, if this is not an option then member's of clubs, and there are many, can often offer assistance and guidance.

Cleaning

Cleaning your engine frequently is good practice, firstly it will keep it clean and maintain its appearance and secondly it is a good way of detecting any wear or other issues that may be evident. Hot water and detergent is probably the best way of removing oil and dirt from components, solvents should be avoided as they can attack seals within the engine and may in extreme cases affect any paintwork present. Tooth brushes and cotton buds (Q-tips) are a good way of getting into those hard to reach places.

Lubrication

Good lubrication is essential for any mechanical device and particularly so for the steam engine as some parts of steam engines operate a high temperatures and require specific oils, a model compound steam engine for instance as a number of cylinders operating at different pressures and therefore different temperatures. Oils for cylinders often have additives which enhance their performance at high temperatures and pressures. On the other side of the coin parts of the engine will remain quite cool and can safely be lubricated lighter oils such as just plain motor oil.

This is some very basic guidance on how to care for model steam engines which it is hoped will be both informative and useful.

Three pitfalls to be avoided when buying Model Steam Engines & Boilers

Are you thinking of buying model steam engines? But, do you have a clear understanding of these products? If you do not have a clear concept of what you are buying and what you might be letting yourself into then there is a strong possibility that you might not end up with what you were looking for.

Below is given a little advice on how to avoid some of the mistakes that can be made when purchasing model steam engines and steam engine with Kingdon boilers:

• Not sure what you need?:There are a number of manufacturers offering model marine steam engines for sale.If you do not have a clear idea of what you require it is worth researching subject before you invest. Explore your needs and requirements fully before making any purchase.

• Not deciding your budget:When looking for model steam engines for sale and talking to manufacturers be aware that there are a whole myriad of option and combinations of engine and boiler to consider. Set your budget and research the options you have that are available to you, start simple and add to it as your requirements and know how grow.

• Not gathering enough information about the company & the product:It is essential to gather as much information as possible about the engines and boilers you are interested in this well help to avoid any potential problems at a later date. Everyone’s needs and expectations are different and it is largely down to the individual to decide what fits the bill and also the budget available. You may decide on a horizontal boiler and engine on the other hand you may opt for a steam engine with a Kingdon boiler.

These are just three of the potential areas that need looking at, every model is different and every owner has different expectations and budget so it is important to make the right decision for you particular application.

Tips for Model Steam Engines

Looking after model steam engines is not a particularly complicated task mainly consisting of just plan cleaning with a cloth or similar. The bulk of good steam engine maintenance lies in attention to thorough lubrication, if an engine is well lubricated it will extend its life greatly.

Be them model locomotives or even Model boat steam engines they all require the same attention to detail when it comes to maintenance. Most lubrication points will be self evident and may range from either a simple hole for oil to an oil cup or in some cases a small box that will contains lubricant.

Gathering Basic Tools

Few tools are required for basic maintenance things like cotton buds (Q-tips), wooden cocktail sticks and old tooth brushes are very useful for getting into those hard to reach places. Depending on the engine involved disassembly is not recommended unless you know exactly what are dealing with it is all too easy to compound problems by taking matters into your own hands.

Cleaning

Steam oil is very sticky and viscous and it is a good idea to remove surplus amounts of this when the engine is cold, depending on the grade of steam oil used it can become akin to an adhesive over time which is obviously detrimental to the operation of the steam engine.

Hot water with detergent is a good way of removing this rather than a solvent as solvents can effect or damage some of the materials and seals used in the construction of the engine. It is then really a question of methodically going around the engine cleaning all the various components. If you are using water and detergent is then prudent to treat the engine with WD40 or similar to drive out any excess moisture and prevent any unwanted corrosion from forming.

General

When looking at model steam engines for sale there are a number of factors to consider, obviously budget is a consideration here and prices will vary greatly, as a general rule of thumb the greater the price the higher the level of sophistication and quality. Also there are numerous different types and applications of the steam engine from a locomotive to a marine steam engine for a model boat.

Boilers are another consideration in a lot of models they are unseen but in model boats you can sometimes see the entire steam unit which may consist of a steam engine with a Kingdon boiler making for an elegant and pleasing display of machinery.