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3 inch scale Burrell traction engine - stock code 3483

Without any doubt whatsoever, this is the most horrendous looking Burrell I have seen that remains in one piece. Built in the 1970s, the owner inherited it from his grandfather many years ago. Apart from one attempt, ten years ago, to steam it (unsuccessful in the absence of a steam-raising blower), it has spent the time since then in storage.

It's a pity really, as underneath the engineering is not bad - the engine was well made in the first place. Mercifully, the moving bits had a good dose of oil before laying up, as a result of which the engine still turns over freely.

Somewhat to my surprise (no, amazement actually), on hydraulic test at 200psi, despite water coming out of every fitting going, the boiler itself was dry. Overcome with enthusiasm to have a drive around on what must be the world's grottiest engine Geoff and I fired it up yesterday afternoon and looked set to succeed when a broken gauge glass stopped proceedings.

Realistically, this is for complete rebuild - it needs pulling apart, every last bit of brightwork is rusty and will require a good deal of elbow grease to restore, the paintwork seems to have had an argument with the underlying metal and is doing its best to get off. As far as I can see the engine is complete (although it does need a gauge glass) and has a simple riding trolley, complete with toolbox containing odds and ends including a spare grate.

Length 48 inches
Weight 250 pounds

scale 3 inch