Sold June 2025 Back to Archive

4 inch scale Foster agricultural engine - stock code 12666

A 4 inch scale Foster agricultural engine to the popular Live Steam Models design.

This one came to us earlier in the year having been fitted with a new AJB Engineering boiler in 2010. It's had a cladding off inspection and ultrasonic survey in recent days, showing satisfactory thickness readings, little changed from the last set taken in 2014.

We've re-tubed the boiler, following which it's had hydraulic and steam tests with new certification issued.

As well as the re-tube, we've machined the connecting rod brasses, fitted a new injector, serviced the boiler feed pump and replaced the unreliable Ramsbottom safety valves - set for a giddy 150psi working pressure - with a pair of our own progressive pop types, set to 120psi, the correct working pressure for this design.

On test the engine proved free steaming, running with square, well-defined exhaust beats. There is a quickly-detachable tender-mounted seat with integral footrests, providing a comfortable driving position.

Paintwork presents well overall, with some minor age-related wear; the brightwork polishes up nicely.

An ideal introduction to this most popular size of miniature traction engines. Supplied with 12 months warranty, firing irons, and a starter kit of coal, oil and water treatment.

We would be more than happy to give half a day's instruction on the steaming, running and disposal of the engine to a new owner if required.


wheel material steel
axlebox type plain bearing
cylinder material cast iron
valve type slide
valve gear Stephensons
reverser type pole
injector(s) 1
boiler number 181
year built 2010
boiler maker AJB Engineering
CE mark yes
working pressure/psi 120
boiler type locomotive
boiler material steel
boiler construction welded, expanded tubes. Re-tubed Feb/2025
hydraulic test valid to 20/Feb/2035
steam test valid to 18/Jul/2026
fusible plug yes
safety valve(s) 2
safety valve type Ramsbottom
mechanical pump 1
whistle yes
road speed(s) 2
differential yes