Sold June 2004 Back to Archive

A complete kit-build 4 inch scale Ruston steam tractor, about three quarters assembled with parts to finish, including assembly instructions for all stages and boiler paperwork.

A diminutive engine in full size, the Ruston makes for a similarly dinky model in 4 inch scale - it's more like a super-sized 3 inch engine, although with the advantage of more height which means less crouching over the controls.

Steel boiler, 120 psi working pressure, initial hydraulic test certificate for 350 psi. Boiler fed by injector and mechnical pump with bypass. Single cylinder, slide valve actuated by Stephenson's valve gear. Two speed transmission with winch behind nearside rear wheel and tender-mounted fairleads.

As with all kit-build engines, the parts benefit considerably from sympathetic fettling on assembly and careful checking at all stages for free running. This engine has been put together pretty well so far, everything turns over freely, the road gears engage well.

Length 46 inches
Height 36 inches
Width 20 inches
Weight 400 pounds