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3 inch scale Atkinson steam wagon - stock code 1785

A superb 3 inch scale Atkinson steam wagon, exhibited at the Model Engineer Exhibition at Sandown Park in December 2000 where it won a Gold Medal and the Bill Hughes Trophy for best road steam vehicle. A most impressive engine at over 8 feet long with its trailer, it combines superb scale detail with a host of detail modifications to make it a practical and powerful passenger-carrying vehicle.

The post-exhibition report in the Model Engineer magazine ran:

"It was one of the finest examples of an Atkinson steam wagon complete with a trailer that the Judges have ever seen in exhibition. Painted in green with appropriate gold and red lettering, every aspect of detail was correct and to scale, with all the extras but no number on the maker's plate. The exhibit came with a very interesting portfolio of photographs and folder of concise information. These provided clear evidence of the materials used and the quality of machining and workmanship normally covered by paint or the unseen parts of construction. The drawings and castings came from Reeves supported by research. Closer inspection confirmed that the model had been steamed. Using this model on the highway after dark would have been well within the requirements of the Road Traffic legislation, as the wagon including the trailer was fitted with a full set of working lights with the switches in the driver's cab above his head".

To gain an insight into what sets an exhibition-winner at this level apart from other excellent models, the detailed builder's notes for the judges are reproduced here.

The engine has been steamed on several occasions before it was stripped for painting. It has not been run since painting, the finish is first class. It comes complete with copies of its award certificates, battery charger, blower and tools.

Length

Engine 64 inches
Trailer 31 inches

Height 28 inches

scale 3 inch