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Although we regularly see examples of John Hainings 2 inch scale Durham & North Yorkshire traction engine, the doubled-up version in 4 inch scale is a rather more elusive animal. This is the first one I've had in - to my eyes a handsome looking engine in this size, something to stand out in the standard rally line up of Fosters and Burrells.

Built in 1992 by a highly experienced engineer, the engine saw little or no use in his hands after completion - it appears he was a builder rather than a driver - and was only test steamed a couple of times in the hands of its second (and last owner). It came to us with a good deal of documentation and a recent club hydraulic test certificate - it had yet to have its first documented steam test. Still runs like a new engine, there's a clip of it here.

Welded steel boiler with expanded tubes, 100psi working pressure, feed by mechanical pump (driven at half speed from the crankshaft) and injector. Twin spring type safety valves, fitted beneath dummy Salter type valves.

Cast iron cylinder with slide valve actuated by Stephenson's gear, pole reverser. Mechanical lubricator with auxiliary displacement lubricator. Watt governor and bell type whistle mounted on cylinder block.

Three shaft, two speed transmission, winch drum behind nearside rear wheel.

The engine is well-built, fit and finish of machined parts is good and the paintwork remains in fine condition. There is minor surface tarnishing of the brightwork which a Saturday morning with the Scotchbrite and Brasso would have gleaming. There are nice details all over this one, from the steam chest pressure gauge to the footplate boarding, miniature bucket and oil can to the remote oilers for the back axle.

Length 64 inches
Rear wheel 23 inches diameter
Height 45 inches