Congratulations BenPeake! I didn't see the engine on the board before now. How about a bit of background. Is it your own design? Did you cast the parts? Is there a build thread?
That was a shock! I logged on and there was a picture of my engines sitting on the top right of the page! Thanks HMEM.
Well everyone, I'm afraid my main consideration when building these engines was speed, as building them was a commercial venture. So I took few photographs, however, this is the first engine which I have cast parts for and to be able to do so I consulted the knowledgeable members of HMEM. In the following thread I posted some pictures of the progress I made on the flywheels http://www.homemodelenginemachinist.com/index.php?topic=9107.15. The engine is of my design and the most interesting features are the cast parts, the functioning oiler and rotary valve (ports cut into the crankshaft). The valve worked really well and the engine has exceptional compression for a steam engine. All in all I was very happy with the result achieved.
I really wasn't expecting these engines to be the project of the month, otherwise I would've taken build photos. To compensate, I shall document my next build, which also incorporates self poured castings. I'm going to start the build tomorrow, so I will post a link here.
Kel, I will add that to the web page - great idea. I no longer need people's attention for this engine it sold out within the first few days! A result I was very happy with.
The engine making business is difficult to begin with as you enter it unknown without reputation etc. Then you go through a big learning phase, through which you will make mistakes, which will cost money. Then you begin to see the light. I feel like I'm just beginning to see the light. My engines are of a good quality and getting better which each build, I have a market and many loyal customers, and the learning curve, whilst ever present, is becoming less steep.