Sold June 2007 Back to Archive

I can only think that the "Ajax" design attracts a certain type of fastidious builder - I don't often get them, but the ones I have had have all been beautifully built and go very well. The last one - in maroon - came in last year just before our club's big July steamup and barbecue. Sam and I took it down and ran around all afternoon, it was then intercepted by Mrs P for display in the hall before it found a new home. Almost exactly a year later, this one turns up and looks destined to be my ride of choice next month.

A particularly well-built 5 inch gauge "Ajax" 0-4-0 saddle tank. Silver soldered copper boiler, working pressure 100psi, feed by injector and axle pump with auxiliary hand pump on footplate. Slide valve cylinders, mechanical lubricator on running board, Walschaert's valve gear with pole reverser in cab. There is a screwdown brake and remote oilers for all axleboxes. The back of the cab is removeable for driving, the cab roof slides forwards for easy access.

Fit and finish of the motionwork is excellent, there is negligible mechanical wear throughout. The engine steams very freely and pulls strongly, running almost silently when notched up. An ideal club engine for the novice, equally good if you've got something magnificent in the stable which is too big to get out every weekend.

Complete with a well-made carrying cradle.