The Magazine of the National Traction Engine Trust
NATIONAL TRACTION ENGINE TRUST Membership of the National Traction Engine Trust is open to those who, whether engine owners or not, have a genuine interest in the preservation of self propelled steam road vehicles, portable engines etc.
President: S.J. Wharton Vice Presidents: Esmond E. Kimbell; Richard N. Parrott Chairman: E.A. Fillmore, 2 Farlaine Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN21 1XJ. Vice-Chairmen: Mrs Sylvia Dudley, 12 Hillway, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK17 8UL; A.J. Semple, Penyghent, 8 Chelwick Close, Church Stretton, Shropshire SY6 7BY.
The annual subscription is £12.00 for individuals, £14.00 for family mrtmhprolp and ELSO for pensioners. The Trust's magazine Steaming is sent free to members during the early part of January, April, July and October, and other benefits of membership include advantageous terms for boiler insurance as well as access to advice on technical matters. Membership of the Steam Apprentice Club is available to young people under 21; details available from that section's Chairman (see right).
General Secretary: Mrs Susan Jackson, 153 Micklefield Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP13 7HA. Memherahip Sneratarr .1 R Cnnk, 9R Ripon nrive, c!..forrl, Lincolnshire NG34 8UF. Treasurer: J.T.G. Harris, Oak Cottage, Cottesbrooke, Northampton NN6 8PH. Chairman, Rally Sub-Committee: A.J. Semple, Penyghent, 8 Chelwick Close, Church Stretton, Shropshire SY6 7BY. Chairman, Engine Owners Sub-Committee: M.O. Davies, Hill Farm, Avon Dassett, near Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV33 OAA. Chairman, Steam Apprentice Club: Mrs Sylvia Dudley, 12 Hillway, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK17 8UL. Insurance Officer: R.J. Blenkinsop, Cornerstones, Church Lane, Claydon, Banbury, Oxfordshire 0X17 1EW. Publicity Officer: S.J. Parrott, Cherry Cottage, Crendon Road, Shabbington, Buckinghamshire HP18 9HE.
teaming
For engine owning members ... binder
Each binder can take up to twelve copies — that's three year's issues. Produced in royal blue with the magazine title and club motif nicely blocked in gold on the spine — a fine addition to your bookshelves and an excellent way of keeping your magazines in good condition whilst near at hand.
-444411641,
Tbe Trust's newly produced
CODE OF PRACTICE for Traction Engines and similar vehicles is now available. Please refer to the Engine Owners Column in the Summer issue for the introductory description of this new Code. Price f15.00 each plus £1.50 postage
Price £4.95
AP' -
inc. post Available by post from Mrs S. Dudley; 12 Hillway, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK17 8UL.
from — Mrs Sylvia Dudley 12 Hillway Woburn Sands Milton Keynes Buckinghamshire MK17 8UL Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
The Magazine of the National Traction Engine Trust
Volume 36 Number 1
Winter 1992/1993 Editor: Roger West. 14 Charles Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9AB Assistant Editor: Derek Rayner, 'Invicta', 9 Beagle Ridge Drive, Acomb, York YO2 3JH Display Advertising: to the Editor Small Ads to the Editor Distribution and Change of Address: John Cook, 25 Ripon Drive, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8UF The Editor is pleased to consider contributions of suitable articles, shorter items or photographs for inclusion in future issues. All material submitted is voluntary and payment cannot be made for any material published, although expenses incurred may be met. The opinions expressed in the magazine, with the exception of those printed as Trust announcements, are those of the contributors and do not indicate the views of the Trust as a whole. All items are held copyright by the contributors and/or the NTET. Next issue: The press date for news items, recent photographs and small adverts is 25th February 1993. For the date for Steaming Around see that section.
Editorial With the present issue we start another volume of the Trust's magazine. This one also needed the editorial acquisition of a fresh binder (supplies are available again, as advertised opposite) and that occasioned some brief stocktaking. The work involved in a bit of reorganisation of the files after the last issue brought home just how many members make up the content of the volumes. It is pleasing to record a healthy amount of material coming in from members for use in the magazine — surely the sign of a thriving club journal. The written word and photographic image are equally represented. A welcome recent trend has been the appearance from members of articles or paragraphs on technical subjects. Although such topics are known to be welcomed by readers, they have, historically, been very hard to come by and we long ago came to the conclusion the engine owners and restorers were much happier with the spanner than the pen. Many problems in restoration have more than one way of tackling them and the answers are very often a compromise, so it is perhaps understandable that those who might have considered putting their experiences in writing should hesitate and then decide not to stick their heads above the wall. However, the new confidence in offering technical information or tips to fellow members is encouraging and we have had the temerity to introduce in this issue Technical Topics, which we hope will be supported sufficiently well to become an occasional feature of future magazines, and also to produce further useful discussion by way of follow up letters.
This issue 4 12 16 18 22 24 26 29 46 52 53
Trust News The Rebirth of Fowler ploughing engine 5933 Solent Voyager Damp Dampf Setting back the clock The Rural History Centre Technical Topics Steaming Around, compiled by Derek Rayner Letters Videos, New Members Small Adverts
Ross Goodman Dick Blenkinsop Derek Rayner Jim Stevenson Jonathan Brown
ISSN 0260 - 2962 Published by the National Traction Engine Club (1984) Ltd for the National Traction Engine Trust at 14 Charles St, Market Harborough, Leicestershire. Printed by AB Printers Ltd, Leicester. STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Cover Fowler single cylinder ploughing engine 5933 of 1889 rests between pulls during its running in after restoration. The story of the rebuilding of this engine in Australia features elsewhere in this issue. (MAAS Sydney) 3
Trust News From the Chairman The Annual General Meeting, as its name implies, is the main event in the year of any organisation; it is unique in that it is when the officers and committee are accountable to the members and, equally, the main occasion nn which members can raise any points they may wish. I am always pleased that so many members make such an effort to travel to our meetings; this is most gratifying to your officers and I would thank members for making the effort to attend. Of recent years we have endeavoured to hold our annual general meetings at a venue where there was some additional attraction, which has no doubt been partially responsible for the good attendances recently. This year was no exception. Winchester proved to be one of our best venues, during my term of office, both from the point of view of the numbers attending, the grandeur of the meeting rooms (the City Hall) and the excellent facilities the Hampshire County Museums Service, placed at our disposal before and after the meetings. Most members will be aware that officers and committee normally serve
4
for a period of three years, so that roughly a third retire by rotation each year; also, any co-options made during the year must be confirmed at the next annual general meeting. On the opposite page the full list of officers and committee and special appointments are given, but I would particularly like to mention the re-election of Esmond Kimbell as vicepresident and one of our most senior members, and of Sylvia Dudley my hard working and tireless vice
chairman. New committee members are John Cook (also the Membership Secretary) and J.R. (Smudge) Smith. The other retiring members were re-elected. Our Treasurer appointed during the year is John T.G. Harris, a professional accountant, who has taken over from Chris Barber who served the Trust as Treasurer fur many years. The Trust has been fortunate in having some very loyal and hardworking officers; much of the success of
From Alan Martin's Collection
59
The last two issues of our magazine included references to Burrell Gold Medal tractor 3250's work at a Shropshire Yeomanry camp in 1911 and my picture this time shows another similar occasion in the same year. It was entitled by the photographer 'Carting beer for the Northamptons, Thetford Camp 1911'. With no less than four traction wagons (and a horse drawn dray) well loaded with beer for the troops, one might wonder just how much military training the men would have had time to take in! The beer could have been brought up to the camp from the local Thetford brewery of Bidwell & Co, or maybe, wanting the pint they were familiar with, the Yeomanry had had Phipps or Northampton Brewery ales put on rail to Thetford station. The engine is 8hp Burrell single 2366 of 1901, appropriately named BULLER, and owned by Doran Bros of Thetford. Notice how the heavily cambered chalky surfaced road has left its mark only on the inside surface of the strakes.
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
our various activities has been due to their efforts. This year marked the end of the long and successful association of Keith and Tracey Shakespeare with NTEC Sales. Their efforts have been quite outstanding and the contribution they have made to the Trust has been considerable. But pressure of family and business life means that they will not in future be able to devote the time necessary to do the job properly. I would thank them on behalf of the Trust for all they have done. I would draw attention to the appeal elsewhere for a successor. After the main business of the meeting was dealt with considerable discussion took place regarding the extension of certain sections of the Road Traffic Acts to off the road events and the introduction of 'authorisation' of traction engine rallies. After a welcome tea break the launch of the Code of Practice for Traction Engines and Similar Vehicles was made. This document is a most significant and important step forward which we hope will be of considerable value to our engine owning members. Finally I would like to welcome all existing and new officers and committee members and look forward with confidence to a successful season of Trust activities. (Eric Fillmore, chairman)
Engine Owners Column Engine Owners sub-Committee The Trust's 1992 AGM and the The associated presentation of Traction Engine Code are now behind us and we were very grateful to have such a well attended meeting, and although I was hoping for rather more constructive comments, I think the Code was well received. I must reemphasise that the law requires owners to adopt a code of practice and feel that ours gives them the opportunity to make a choice and is, furthermore, of good value. The next stage is to negotiate with the established companies and get their reaction. The NTET Code is being offered as a service to members and I shall always be pleased to receive your comments on it, but there is no compulsion for you to use it if the document doesn't suit you. The 1993 Engine Driving Course is now arranged for the weekend of 17th/18th April at the Amberley Chalk Pits Museum in West Sussex. The format will be similar to last year with two groups, depending on their STEAMING Winter 1992/93
experience, and we are hoping that the more spacious venue will allow greater opportunity for 'hands on' driving. The cost will be £50, which covers all course expenses, but not overnight accommodation or meals. There is on site ample space for camping and caravaning, and there is some catering on site. If you require local accommodation such as bed and breakfast, a list of addresses is available. Readers interested in participating should contact me as soon as possible (address inside front cover) and I will forward application forms. Finally, if you have difficulty in obtaining spares or services, various members of my sub Committee may be able to help — please contact me in the first instance. (Michael Davies, chairman, Engine Owners subCommittee) Boiler Insurance In the last twelve months engine owners have had a big increase in the cost of inspection and insurance. We are very pleased to announce that a new Fragmentation Insurance Policy has been negotiated with Cornhill Insurance, and this policy will only be offered to members of the Trust. The policy offers a cover of £5000 for Boiler Fragmentation and at the same time provides for the Cold and Hot Inspection of the Boiler every year. The cost to members for this service will be £150 and, as it includes the insurance mentioned, VAT does not apply. Existing policy holders with Cornhill will be able to take advantage of this arrangement for renewals paid after 1st January 1993, when new business can also be negotiated. Cornhill Insurance will be advising us of the charges to be made for subsequent visits over and above the two inspections each year, and we are discussing arrangements to cover the inspection of more than one engine at the same time and at the same location. During our discussions Cornhill Insurance mentioned that their boiler inspectors often make abortive calls, where the engine has not been prepared for the inspection. Any such abortive calls in future, for any reason, will carry a charge of £50 plus VAT and this will have to be paid before a further visit can be made. Would all existing policy holders, and those who wish to take advantage of the new scheme, please mention it in correspondence with Cornhill, and at the same time a photocopy or original of the current paid up membership card of the NTET must be included. Also, it must be mentioned
Officers and Committee 1993 President S.J. Wharton Vice Presidents E.E. Kimbell R.N. Parrott Chairman E.A. Fillmore Vice Chairmen Mrs Sylvia Dudley A.J. Semple General Secretary Mrs Susan Jackson* Treasurer J.T.G. Harris Hon Solicitor T. Driver* Hon Safety Adviser J.M. Newnham* Membership Secretary J.R. Cook Committee R.J. Blenkinsop J.R. Bosworth (Derbyshire) N. Boyes (W. Yorks) R.A. Copp (Surrey) M.O. Davies S.K. Durance (Derbyshire) A. Fookes (Essex) R.T. Herring (Oxfordshire) I.D. Howitt (W. Yorks) R.F. Oliver (Surrey) S.J. Parrott (Bucks) R.J. Sandercock (Cornwall) A.J. Semple K.D. Shakespeare 0. Slade (Devon) P.G. Smart (Hampshire) D.S. Smith (West Midlands) J.R. Smith (N. Yorks) M. Ward (Nottinghamshire) R.E. West Representatives P.G. Smart (Road Loco Society) R. Mattless (NV Tractor & EC)* Auditors (and registered office) Hamiltons, Forum House, 1-6 Millmead, Staines, Middlesex TW18 4UQ This column lists, for the information of members, all Officers and Committee of the Trust for 1993. The addresses of those with special duties are given inside the front cover of each issue of this magazine; others may be contacted via the General Secretary or sub-Committee Chairmen. Names marked with an asterisk* are appointments by the Committee and are nonvoting positions in Committee.
that this policy does not include insurance for Boiler Explosion and Road Traffic Insurance. You will still have to make these arrangements, most likely through John Scott & Partners in the usual way. It will, of course, be a requirement to use Cornhill boiler inspectors if availing yourself of the arranged policy. Cornhill Insurance has a number of 5
Branch Offices spread all over the UK which can deal with this new policy. However if you have a technical query it is best to telephone one of the offices which has a Technical Department. These are at Glasgow, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Leatherhead and Woking. (Dick Blenkinsop, Insurance Officer) Insurance at Rallies Would all engine owners who are taking their engines to NTET Authorised Events in 1993 and subsequent years, please remember that they will only be allowed to attend in steam if they have a valid insurance disc, obtained from John Scott & Partners or the Insurance Officer, mounted on the engine. (Dick Blenkinsop, Insurance Officer) Problems with Standards — an update Since writing my notes for the Autumn 1992 edition of Steaming, there has been further discussion with the British Standards Institution, and I am very pleased to report that they have generously agreed to allow the Trust to reproduce BS931:1951 Locotype Multitubular Boilers of Riveted Construction, as an appendix to our Traction Engine Code of Practice. It has yet to he decided how it will be issued — either as an integral part of the Code (which may add to the price to cover the cost of copying), or as an optional extra. Watch this space! (Jim Newnham, Hon Safety Adviser)
The Rally List 1993 The Rally List 1993, those rallies organised under the Trust's Rally Code of Practice, will be published as usual as a supplement to the Spring edition of this magazine, but many organisers have already decided their dates for 1993 and we publish now a list of rallies notified to and agreed by the Rally sub-Committee by 1st December 1992. Although only a brief title is used the rallies should he identifiable by readers, and we hope this advance information will enable notes to be made in diaries etc, earlier than usual. Further details and addresses of organisers will be in the next issue. May 1 to 3 — Rushden, Northants; Abbotsfield, Manchester 8/9 — Stoke Goldington, Bucks 22/23 — Tallington, Lincs 28 to 31 — Pevensey, East Sussex 29/30 — AEC Rally, Nottingham 29 to 31 — Temple Newsam, Leeds 30 to 31 — Swindon, Wilts; Carrington, Lincs; Cheltenham, Glos 31 — Market Drayton, Salop
June 5/6 — Shrewsbury, Salop 6/7 — Upton, Eire 12/13 — Parham, W. Sussex; Little Wymondley, Herts; South Tyne, Tyne and Wear 19/20 — Great Amwell, Herts; Claybrooke, Leics; Pewsey, Wilts 26/27 — Banbury, Oxon; Bon Accord, Aberdeen 26 to 28 — Isle of Man July 3/4 — Chiltern, Bucks; Elvaston, Derbys; Bromyard, Herefords; Heddington, Wilts 10/11 — Chester-le-Street, Durham; Downs, W. Sussex; Rempsione, Leics 16 to 18 — Weeting, Norfolk 17/18 — Marcie, Herefords; Woodcote, Berks 23-25 — Pickering, N. Yorks; Cumbria; Netley Marsh, Hants 24/25 — Upton-on-Severn, Worcs August 14/15 — Cadeby, Leics; Rudgwick, W. Sussex 21/22 — Fairford, Glos. 27-30 — Isle of Wight 28/29 — Egham, Surrey 28-30 — Liskeard, Cornwall; Stoneleigh, Warwicks; Harewood House, Yorks; Liskeard, Cornwall 29/30 Bishops Castle, Salop September 11/12 — Haddenham, Cambs; Malpas, Cheshire, 25/26 Barleylands, Essex
Boiler door joints The tragic accident last year, in which Dick Martino and his nephew were killed, has raised a lot of concern about boiler door joints — particularly of the asbestos free types now
available. I have been in contact with the Health & Safety Executive about both matters and have had a positive response. With regard to the accident, the
The Engine Owners sub-Committee presents another
PRACTICAL ENGINE DRIVING COURSE to be held on the weekend of 17th and 18th April, 1993 At the Amberley Chalk Pits Museum, near Arundel, West Sussex by invitation of the Trustees. The site has full facilities including caravans and camping. See Engine Owners Column for further particulars. 6
Wit
findings still have to be fully evaluated, but I can confirm that the door joint which apparently failed was of the conventional rubber impregnated woven asbestos type. I should be in a position to give more information in the next issue of Steaming. The HSE is looking into the suitability of various types of nonasbestos boiler door joints so, here again, I will give more information as soon as possible. Although it was not so in the case of Dick Martino's accident, there have been reports of non-asbestos door joints failing. Unfortunately these reports are mostly from the chap whose aunty's milkman's sister overheard someone talking in the fish and chip shop about a friend who...! If anyone can give me first hand information about any joint failures, I shall be very pleased to have it; I will need to know the trade description of the material, the maker's name and Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
Pat Freeman kindly shares this photograph with us and asks if any member can help with the engine's identity or owner, or with more information on the characters gathered around the engine. Of the nine men pausing from their labours at the threshing, the driver is known to be Bert Wilkinson, grandfather of Pat's daughter-in-law. The date is thought to be the early 1920s — note that one of the men is wearing an ex-Army jacket. The engine is a Burrell single cylinder agricultural, perhaps of the 1890s, and the picture was taken at Abbess Roding, a village between Chelmsford and Harlow in Essex. where it was bought. Equally, I would like to know about non-asbestos materials which have performed well. This information can be passed on to the HSE on a no-names-no-pack drill basis and will help to make things safer for all of us. Finally, perhaps a reminder about the fit of manhole and mudhole doors would not be out of place. BS931 specifies that 'The door spigot or recess shall have a clearance not greater than Yie inch all round'. The spigot should also be high enough to properly locate the door in its opening before it is tightened up. Having the correct clearance around the door ensures that as much as possible of the full width of the joint is in contact with the inside of the boiler shell. This may well be all the more important with asbestos substitute materials which might tend to be extruded out if the gap is excessive. (Jim Newnham,
Hon Safety Adviser) STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Rally Organisers Column Rally sub Committee Now the winter is truly with us the sub-Committee is planning more safety training seminars for next spring. These are not yet finalised; however, three venues are planned at Leeds, Market Harborough and Reading to give a fairly even geographical coverage of the country and offer reasonable travelling distances. Details will be provided later and an announcement made in the press. There still appears to be some misunderstanding regarding the Off the Road Events regulations. I would emphasise that the Authorisation procedure in which the NTET is involved is a means of preventing the driver of a vehicle at a rally from being prosecuted for the offences named in the Act. Some rally officials are saying there is no benefit to them. This is
probably true but we feel events are better if they are authorised, because it is the exhibitor/driver who will receive the benefit, such as it may be. The requirement to apply for Authorisation for an event is not spelled out clearly in the Regulations themselves and different police authorities may well take different lines on the need to be authorised, hence our involvement to ensure that rallies can easily receive authorisation. It is quite clear that one police area is insisting that events need to be authorised, so if you are wondering if you need to bother with all the paperwork give me or Smudge Smith a call and have a chat about it. This issue of Steaming will reach you after Christmas, but I will offer you all good wishes and a prosperous New Year, a phrase I think many will hope for more fervently than ever before in 1993. (Andrew Semple,
chairman, Rally sub Committee)
NTEC Sales Following the retirement of Keith Shakespeare from his position as National Sales Officer, the stock has been temporarily transferred to the care of me, Sylvia Dudley, and a
7
National Traction Engine Trust Appointment of
National Sales Officer We are looking for an Officer to organise the Sales Section of the Trust. Dunes would be to organise the sale:. stands, mall order sales personnel and stock purchase and control. The way In which this is achieved is open to discussion and change, subject to Committee Approval. Unless someone comes forward soon there will be no sales stands on rally fields In the coming year, with the consequent loss of donated income and services to the Trust. What do you — our members — want from this section of the Trust? Can you get the specialist traction engine books, badges and Trust items that we sell, and that you like to buy, from local shops? And are you prepared for your subscription to go higher if we lose the sales income that comes to the Trust? Applications for the post of Sales Officer and comments on the service should be sent to:
Exhibition in London at the turn of the year, but it will not be possible to operate sales stands at rallies this summer unless we quickly find a new Sales Officer. (Sylvia Dudley)
Affiliated Clubs, Hospitality Tents We plan to visit some rallies during the coming season to meet members of the Trust and our host affiliated clubs. If there is no Trust Sales Stand at the events we visit there will be a few items of interest to members on sale in the membership area. It will also be possible to enroll new members and renew subscriptions. The number and location of these visits is limited by time and the cost involved in getting to and from the event, but if your local club would he interested in inviting us to attend, please let me know — my address is inside the front cover of each issue. We do value the exchange of information that comes from these contacts and we enjoy meeting you all — be you known friend, or new — and hope to bring good weather with us when we come. (Sylvia Dudley)
Steam Apprentice Club Plans are taking shape for the SAC Training Course to be held on the weekend of 24th/25th April 1993. This will be for SAC members aged between 14 and 21 and it will take place at the Klondyke Mill centre in Derbyshire, a venue at which Trust members have been made so welcome in recent years. Further details will appear in the SAC Magazine. (Sylvia Dudley, SAC chairman)
Obituaries Arnold Brook
It is with sadness that I report the death of Arnold Brook of Holmfirth, Yorkshire. I have known him for the last five years since purchasing his Super Sentinel at the time diminishing health forced him to give up a life long passion with Sentinels. He will, of course, be known by many in preservation and those of us who have been around since the sixties and before, and I am sure many
Spittle Dudley, 12 1-1111way, Woburn Sends, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK17 801.
limited mail order service is being offered, pending the appointment of a new Sales Officer. I thank you for being patient if you were kept waiting during the changeover — please let me knew if you have an outstanding order. All mail is being passed from the previous sales address, but there is, of course, a time lag. Please note that orders should now be sent to the address on the advertisements in this issue. A new supply of binders for Steaming will be available by the time you read this and I am pleased to say that the price remains unchanged at £4.95 post free to members. Three sizes are available — for the current sized magazines as issued from Vol 24 and, following requests, also for the smaller sized issues of Vol 16 to 23, and the narrower editions of Vol 15 and earlier. A Trust sales stand appeared as usual at the Model Engineering 8
A new face on the rally fields last year was Aveling M type compound tractor 10722. The machine started fife as a convertible with Peterborough City Council in July 1923, presumably seeing service on hauling and road rolling duties on the city's highways. The Aveling's nine year rebuild included new firebox and tubeplate, and a complete reconstruction of both front and back wheel rims. Its first outing to the Kent Show in July rewarded owner Neal Herridge with the prize cup. (Peter Love) Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
of his early steam companions will have memorable stories of his early exploits. As a teenager at boarding school in Yorkshire I can remember visiting Nostell Priory rally and seeing a striking steam wagon in orange livery, Sentinel S4 9075 of 1934 HOLMEVELIAN, which then turned up at Pirton rally some 180 miles south the following weekend during my half term holiday! This was long before low loaders were commonly used to transport engines around and rallies were only for local engines, so to again see the S4 was, for me, amazing. Little did I know then that I would own a Sentinel and purchase one from the driver who I sat and chatted to as a school boy. Arnold was born in March 1927 and completed an apprenticeship as a joiner. He went on to complete his National Service with the Royal Marines, being stationed at Bournemouth before returning to Holmfirth where he worked for many years as an engineer with Brooks Dyeing, a local mill. In the early sixties Arnold brought the S4 in a cannibalised and derelict state from Fearnley's in Castleford, then considered beyond restoration. The S4 was one of a pair new to Brown & Son Ltd of Chelmsford in Essex then sold, together, to the Castle Firebrick Company in North Wales in 1939. Arnold brought this wagon with David Hirst and completed the restoration in his distinctive orange livery, naming the wagon after the Holme Valley. In 1976 he took part in the much publicised run from John O'Groats to Lands End together with David Webster, Bert Winkfield, Dan Doncaster, Tom Varley and others whose story was set down in STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Steaming the following year (August 1977 issue► . By 1978 the S4 was sold on to Douglas White of Portsmouth who subsequently spent five years rebuilding the wagon and now rallies it in its original Browns livery, but it still retains the name HOLMEVELIAN. In early 1975 Arnold had purchased the remains of 1925 Super Sentinel 6327 from Hardwicks of Ewell in Surrey. With the wagon virtually scrapped and missing many components Arnold set about a mammoth restoration project but in a short space of time rallied the wagon at Bishops Castle in a running chassis state. Restoration was complete by 1979 and it appeared again in orange livery but named YORKSHIREMAN. Soon after the machine changed livery to brown and blue with a white rose on the front apron and in this guise it will be remembered by many, for it travelled all over the UK and completed the London to Brighton Run for a number of years. It is now rallied by myself in Tate & Lyle livery. Arnold was one of a breed of men now sadly disappearing and he will be remembered with others like the late Ted Ashton and Tom Varley. He had, of course, other interests and many friends and was at active participant with his local sheep dog trials. Arnold Brook died peacefully on 28th October this year after a short illness and was buried at Holme Valley Parish Church cemetery. (Stuart J. Gray) Arthur Field The whole of the steam fraternity in the south of England will be sad-
dened to learn of the passing of Arthur Field of Okeford Fitzpaine near Blandford, Dorset, aged 78. Arthur was a long time member of the Trust and a steam man through and through, having been introduced to traction engines at a tender age via his father's contracting business in the Blandford area. Through his involvement in his father's business Arthur knew all there was to know about threshing and the use of agricultural machinery. He also did a bit of rolling and was instrumental in introducing others into the mysteries and management of steam machinery. Without doubt, with his whimsical humour, enjoyment of practical jokes — for or against, providing it was not malicious — and a contrasting quiet, gentlemanly demeanour, he was loved by all who knew him. His Fowler roller FIPPENNY QUEEN was almost as well known, always being presented in fine mechanical fettle and a familiar sight on rally fields for a great many years. Arthur was in charge of the roller section at Stourpaine since its inception and did his share of the donkey work as well. Often he helped out with the harvesting prior to the show, drove diggers, dug holes and put in stakes among other things. He was a also a founder and prime mover of the Three Okefords event. Arthur's sense of humour was never more evident than at the Royal Bath and West of England Show. All sorts of things happened to his Fowler, but it was good harmless fun and Arthur took it all in his stride with an aplomb that would be hard to beat. Patiently he would await his opportunity to return the compliment, knowing full
The late Arthur Field's well known Fowler roller 18265 FIPPENNY QUEEN, photographed at Okeford Fitzpaine during Arthur's funeral. 9
well the identity of the perpetrators. How we shall miss him there. The Church of Saint Andrew, Okeford Fitzpaine was where Arthur was buried. The church was packed to capacity and the address was given by Michael Oliver. Michael had known Arthur since he himself was a boy and was therefore well suited to make the address, speaking of his life and many fine qualities. The arrival of the cortege at the church was marked by a solitary blast on the whistle of FIPPENNY QUEEN which had been steamed there by Alan and Jean White and Percy Guppy. It is reassuring to know the roller will stay in the family. In a closely knit community such as the traction engine fraternity, a man of Arthur's stature will be sorely missed. Roger Newhery summed him up perfectly saying "Arthur was a gentle man and a gentleman". Indeed he was, the sort of man most of us would like to be compared with. Everyone who knew him will wish to extend their sincere condolences to his sorrowing wife Norah and his family. (Ernie Taylor)
Fieldy Who's going to fire the FIPPENNY QUEEN, Who's going to roll the road, Who's going to give advice and help, To steam lads, young and old. Who's going to run the section At Dorset's famed Steam Fair, And greet you with an oily hand As soon as you get there. Who will preside at Three Okefords, With such thoughtfulness and sense, And help provide and organise, Oft at his own expense. Who will be such a friend to all, And as we struggle on, Who's going to fill that hole in our lives, Now that Fieldy's gone. (Gerry Burr)
Jesse Ellis, a pioneer builder of steam wagons, poses beside the wagon his firm supplied to the Sanitary Administration, Cairo. It was probably wagon number 14 out of a total of 45 made by Ellis. The story of his visit to Egypt which resulted in the order for this wagon in late 1902 is told in Bob Whitehead's recent book Jesse Ellis and the Maidstone wagons — it was reviewed in our Summer 1992 issue.
mutually beneficial gatherings. Coffee will be served from 10.30am; a buffet lunch will be available during the mid-day break (prior booking is essential) and tea will be served at the conclusion of the meeting at about 4.15pm. First time attenders are invited to contact General Secretary Sue Jackson for further details and bookings. The venue is located on the A508 road on the extreme southern edge of Market Harborough town and within 30 minutes car journey of the M1 and M6 motorways; suitable InterCity train services run from London St Pancras and from Leeds.
Future Dates Spring Conference for Rally Organisers and Affiliated Clubs The Spring 1993 Conference for Rally Organisers and Affiliated Clubs will take place at The Harborough Leisure Centre, Northampton Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire on Saturday 13th March 1993 at 11.00am. Invitations and formal notices, together with details of the venue, will be sent out in the usual way, but newcomers are always welcome to these instructive and 10
London Area Social Meetings The 1991/1992 season of social meetings in Londo'n continues in February, March and April and all members, potential members and interested visitors will be welcome to attend one or all of the evening talks or slide shows which have been arranged for the Trust by Bill Timmings.
The venue is the Yorkshire Grey public house, Langham Street, London W1. This location is off Langham Place and Portland Place and little more than five minutes walk north of Oxford Circus tube station. Meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of each month, at 8.00pm, with the room available from 7.30pm. It is hoped
Don't forget...
Spring Conference for Rally Organisers and Affiliated Clubs SATURDAY 13th MARCH 1993 The Harborough Leisure Centre, Northampton Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire See Future Dates column for further details.
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
RALLY SAFETY SIGNS
Back numbers Back numbers of this magazine are available, by post, as listed below. Newer members will be able to find a wealth of reading and pictures in these earlier issues — and members of longer standing may be able to find missing issues to fill gaps in their collections, made when someone hasn't returned a borrowed copy!
DANGER — beware of moving vehicles etc —
yellow with black lettering Unauthorised persons prohibited etc —
red with white lettering FIRE POINT — red with white lettering Printed on rigid plastic boards
non per copy members members
Vol 29, all issues (1986) Vol 30, all issues (1987) Vol 31, all issues (1988) Vol 32, all issues (1989) Vol 33, all issues (1990) Vol 34, all issues (1991) Vol 35, all issues (1992)
£2.00 £2.00 £2.00 £2.50 £2.50 £2.50 £2.50
£3.00 £3.00 £3.50 £4.00 £4.50 £4.50 £4.50
To claim post-free for UK, members please enclose current membership card. Overseas members please add £1.00 postage per order. Cheques/PO's should be made payable to NATIONAL TRACTION ENGINE CLUB (1984) LTD
Orders to be sent to: M.A. Poole, 89 Glebelands, Pulborough, West Sussex RH2O 2JH
members will continue to support our speakers in the enthusiastic way they have in the past. TUESDAY, 12th JANUARY — Sandy Ross will visit with a talk 'More on Avelings and other fine rollers'. TUESDAY, 9th FEBRUARY — Tonight, two talks from Ron Walker — firstly on the problems of casting a new cylinder block for his Burrell TINKERBELL, then on the rebuilding of the local St Pancras roller that was buried in a playground. TUESDAY, 9th MARCH — Dick Horsey will present an illustrated selection of engines in the 1950s and 1960s. TUESDAY, 13th APRIL — the speaker is still to be arranged and it is hoped the Spring issue will be distributed just in time for full details to be announced. (Bill Timmings,
London meetings organiser).
'For sale — Two 6hp Plough Engines by Weeks, with Implements; one 6hp Traction Engine, same makers; one 5hp Traction Engine, same makers, prices on application. — R.H. Birch, Stanford, Hythe, Kent.' (from The Agricultural Engineer, July
1898.) STEAMING
Winter 7992/93
DANGER Beware ef moving vehicles & machinery
£2.20 each sign inc VAT, postage £5 per order From: A.J. Semple (NTET) Unit 6, Mynd Industrial Estate Church Stretton, Shropshire SY6 6EA
OUR MAGAZINE 25 YEARS AGO
1968's first issue was the now Steaming Showman's legendary Engine Issue — a huge 124 page edition of between three and four times the size of the regular quarterly magazine, and surely the magnum opus of John Crawley's period of Editorship. Indeed such was the demand for the book that it was possible to reprint it the following year and again in 1981. Members would no doubt hve been amazed at the huge cover price of £1, which represented two thirds of their current 30s 1£1.50) subscription, but then, as now, the magazine generally went only to members and the cover price was for outsiders. The whole issue was devoted to the title subject with no editorial news or area notes. Articles by Bill Oswald on 'Showmans Engines North of the Border', by Alf Pepper — notes on
engines built or converted for showmen at Fowlers, and by 'Cyclist' (Jack Wilkinson), all provided a direct link with the working engines, for the authors wrote from personal experience. Another article by Geoff Gilbert was of a technical nature and set down the mysteries of the mechanics and electrics of the Scenic Railway ride. The second half of the magazine consisted of tabular material of dimensions of various makers' engines and a superb series of drawings by Geoff Gilbert of Burrell, Foster, Fowler and Wallis examples. All the pages were generously illustrated with engines on the fairground in their working days or just out of the makers' workshops. The issue is nowadays, of course, a rarely available collectors item.
• LOCOMOTIVES
NUMBER tt 3 ,n1111151 17 GAMIN() OCT P19*.
11
The Rebirth of Fowler ploughing engine 5933 Ross Goodman The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, in Sydney, Australia, holds in its collection Fowler ploughing engine 5933, made in December 1889. This engine is the left side of a pair of 18hp single cylinder engines ordered by Michael O'Shaunnassy for his property at Jerilderie, New South Wales. Both engines were used for only a short time before being sold to a Mr McCaughey (also a NSW farmer and friend of David Greig), who in turn sold both engines to the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission, for operation at Leeton, NSW in about 1912. Their duties at Leeton would probably have been scooping out silt from
12
water channels and the deepening and digging of new water courses. During the early 1930s the two engines were separated and 5933 was driven from Leeton to Currawarna near Wagga Wagga, NSW and used for pumping water. Later it was used on a saw bench at Cottee, where it ended its working life. The engine was found by Brune MacDonald in 1965 and saved from the scrap merchants. It was put on display at the Goulburn Steam Museum in NSW until purchased by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences in 1977. Incidentally, the right hand engine (5934) was stolen by a scrap merchant and cut up in the early 1960s. The basic specification of the 18hp pair was as follows:
single cylinder bore: 12 inches stroke: 14 inches rear wheel diameter: 6ft 6in front wheel diameter: 5ft Oin two speeds: 4 and 6 mph fire grate area: 11 sq ft boiler pressure: 120Ibs fuel: wood weight: 23 tons length: 27ft 6in width: 10ft 4in height: 13ft 6in In the 1980s, the engine was sent to a contract restorer, who unfortunately treated it in an irresponsible manner. When it was returned to us in the workshop in 1987, it was in pieces. Most of the brass fittings, and worst of all, the original boiler barrel,
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
were missing. There was an illegal and incorrect barrel replacement welded in, but this was not even true to the centre line of the firebox. So what the Museum's workshop actually got back was one large truckload of near useless boiler parts and one smaller truck with six pallets of bits and pieces. After a complete inspection and much head scratching, the bits and pieces were divided into groups related to the boiler; the tender; the running gear; the ploughing gear and the cylinder and crank group. We found the only useable parts of the boiler were the throat plate, the outer firebox wrapper and the back plate. As the original barrel was missing and there were no drawings available, the 'unknown factor' was large. A very good boilerman, Bruce Rankin, was called in and we spent many nights drawing chalk lines on the workshop floor until the sizes, positions of brackets, holes etc were all resolved. Bruce Rankin then produced working drawings which were duly approved by NSW Workcover Authority. The successful tenderer for the job was Maxitherm Boilers of Sydney. The work involved a new perch bracket, front tube plate, barrel, inner firebox, foundation ring and fire hole ring. Part of the contract was that the Museum
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Some of the smaller parts of Fowler 5933 as delivered back to the Museum workshops.
All photographs courtesy of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, Sydney, except where otherwise noted.
The works photographs of Fowler 18hp ploughing engine 5933. The capacious fuel racks, for timber, are a most noticeable deviation from the usually-provided coal bunkers. (Rural History Centre, University of Reading)
13
Riveting in the foundation ring, the only area where a pneumatic riveter could be used — the rest were by hand.
staff would work with the contractor in the manufacture of this boiler. The inner firebox was to be fully welded as were the longitudinal seams in the barrel. All other seams were to be riveted. One area that caused some concern was the ring where the throat plate joins the barrel. Because of an illegal welded joint, the throat plate was trimmed back and a ring welded on, thus enabling the barrel to be riveted on. This saved the throat plate from being condemned. Whilst the inner firebox was being fabricated, the barrel sections were rolled and the longitudinal seams welded and X-rayed. The ends of the two barrel sections were cleaned up,
The new inner firebox before drilling.
Fitting the firebox wall stays.
drilled and then riveted together. All brackets were marked out and drilled. These were either riveted on or put aside to be bolted on later. The smoke box was rolled, welded, drilled and along with the perch bracket, riveted into position. Next, the barrel was inserted into the modified throat plate and riveted, then the cylinder and crankshaft brackets carrying the crankshaft could be offered up for a trial fitting, and, when correct, the harrel marked out end drilled for the taper headed bolts. All the stays were 1in dia x 4in centre line and were knocked down using a rotary hammer. A hydrostatic test was carried out before the tubes were fitted to check for leaks around the cylinder block and various brackets. After the tubes went in a second hydrostatic test proved satisfactory. Some leaky seams were recaulked, then a steam test carried out and the safety valves set at 1 221bs. The boiler was now alright for the rest of the assembly work with the other components. The back area gear and its pinion were both badly worn with some teeth missing from the gear. Patterns were made and a set cast in C3 steel. The original tender was very badly corroded, so a contract was let out to make a new item. This was won by the
The boiler barrel, complete with smokebox, perch bracket and some other fittings, with the outer firebox in the background. 14
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
Setting up the crankshaft brackets and cylinder block prior to drilling.
Hunter Valley Training Company, an organisation that helps unemployed apprentices. The complete tender was riveted. During this time all the bronze bushes were made. This presented some problems as the originals were missing and all dimensions had to be worked out from experience. Patterns were made and castings taken using LB2 (bronze); most machining was carried out in-house, but some was let out due to size limitations. As the engine started to come together, it was found there were many other bits and pieces that had been broken during dismantling — or were missing altogether. The whistle is one of these items — we still have not obtained a contemporary replacement or drawings to make one. The boiler was lagged using klinky pine, very close to English larch, which we understand was used originally. Ail piesswe was used to test the workings of the engine and also, by using an assembly to hold the roll of wire rope and keep tension on it, to wind the cable on to the drum. The engine was steam tested, then taken to the local steam rally for further testing and to start the running in process. The engine ran well and ploughed for a number of hours, but needs many more hours operation before running in is complete. We have been informed that our ploughing that day was the first time in 26 years that a single cylinder ploughing engine had beep used for steam cultivation in Australia. Keen observers will notice that the lining of the paintwork is yet to be done — this will be finished in the near future. The Museum and the workshop staff are very proud of the work done on the Fowler engine and would take this opportunity to thank all those without whose support and knowledge the restoration would not have happened.
The new tender about to be fitted to the engine.
(Ross Goodman, LBI, is the Transport and Engineering Conservator at the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, Sydney.)
Gear side view of Fowler 5933, restoration complete and ready for work. STEAMING Winter 1992/93
15
Solent Voyager
Dick Blenkinsop's three photographs show Burrell showmans 3847 PRINCESS MARINA using the four mile ferry crossing whilst returning from the Isle of Wight on 1st September 1992. Owned by Arthur Thompson of Salisbury, the 1920 engine had been to the Bank Holiday event on the island at Havenstreet — a very wet rally with gale force winds which sent the craft tent crashing to the ground. The pictures show the Burrell running onto the ferry CAEDMON at Yarmouth; standing in the vehicle deck and lastly coming off the vessel at Lymington, Hampshire. A number of engines make the crossing each year and they are, of course, in steam all the time. Drivers have to be careful with their fires and ensure there is no smoke, but enough steam to drive off on arrival. Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
'Ruston, Proctor & Co Ltd. A very favourable year has been experienced ... the accounts show that after paying a dividend of 15s per share, equal to 7 1/2 per cent per annum free of income tax, £13500 is carried to equalisation of dividend account, and £500 to credit of employees aid account, a balance is to be carried forward of £6786 7s 6d (£6786.37 1/2 p) which exceeds last year's provision in this respect of about £1000.' (from Worlds Carriers, August 1906.)
Air
cAtrimoN t:1 Ry
V.
'58490p. 6hp Traction Engine by Aveling & Porter, makers No 3128, fitted two tanks, water lift, pump, injector, governors, full length cover, gearing all good, and working pressure 120Ibs. Engine in good working order just as it finished thrashing last season. £300.' (advert in Phillips Monthly Machinery Register for June 1921. The Aveling was new in November 1892 to Joseph Thomas of Wrenbury, Cheshire and was probably being privately advertised by him in the Register.)
'The carriers to the Great Central Railway (Messrs Thompson, McKay & Col have been experimenting with a 5 ton 'Hercules' steam motor wagon and as a result of the satisfactory runs have purchased two of these vehicles. During the testing stage the wagon carried 1260 tons at a cost of £99.15s (£99.75) and the cost per ton mile after allowing for maintenance repairs and depreciation worked out at 0.88d 1.36p1. A similar type of wagon is being sent to India.' (from Worlds Carriers, March 1906.)
H
CE 4G U
Ltd
ESTABLISHED 1968
BOILERMAKERS — BOILER REPAIR SPECIALISTS — BOILER PLANT ENGINEERS Craftsman built flanged and butt welded fireboxes complying with The Boiler Code BSS 2790' — made and fitted. All types of traditional high class boiler repairs
Farling Top, Cowling, Keighley, West Yorkshire III)22 ONW Tel: 0535 634674
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Fax: 0535 636802
17
Damp Dampf Derek Rayner reports on his August bank holiday visit to one of continental Europe's few steam engine rallies.
What is usually known to English enthusiasts as 'Peter Borstel's Rally' is unusual in two respects. One, it is held only every other year and secondly, it takes place in Germany. It perhaps, therefore, goes without saying that it will be different. The location of the event is a local beauty spot and country park just outside the small town of Bad Laer, in the Teutoburgerwald (forest) not far from Osnabruck in the north of the country. Peter Borstel has been a steam enthusiast for over twenty years and has been collecting equipment, models, lorries, tractors and other associated items for about the same time. He has his own museum, the Dampf- and Nutzfahr-
zeugmuseum at Dissen, about six miles away and this ensures that there are at least some operating German steam engines at the event. Regrettably, although European Traction Engine Register lists a total of around 200 engines in what was Western Germany (of which about half are steam rollers), there are actually few of these in running order. The title of the event at Bad Laer, the Teutoburger Steam and Truck Festival, reflects Peter's other interest — in lorries and tractors, of which there were many of each at the show. Well known firms such as Lanz (Bulldog), MAN, Bussing and Daimler Benz all had representatives present,
Peter Borstel's portable at the Bad Laer event, Peterman number 578 of 1901. (Derek Rayner) 18
and there were several other makes, plus plenty of spares for tractors and other vehicles to be found in the auto jumble and other stalls present. There was also a funfair, complete with chairoplanes, large and small roundabouts and sideshows; with showmans engines generating in the centre, this tree-lined setting looked most attractive. The event had many of the usual trappings of an English rally, except a parade ring. The site did not lend itself to such an area and what parades there were took place along two roads which came together at the base of a vee near to the entrance to the site. The large number of visitors made it a somewhat dangerous practice to move engines in these circumstances and on occasions, when engines were driven up the hill — not a hill like the Dorset hill — there was little or no protection afforded to the crowds who were wont to wander around the site, not entirely aware of how dangerous engines can be if one steps out of line. A typically British aspect of the weekend was the weather — probably like most other events over the August holiday in Britain, it rained on the
The Fowler K7 class (or K7S?) ploughing engine in care of British Army of the Rhine. (Derek Rayner) Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
Saturday of the two-day Bad Laer show but fortunately, Sunday was dry and fine. The weather did not prevent engine movement, as most of them were able to keep to the two hard roads most of the time. The German engines present were Peter Borstel's Ruthemeyer roller 381 of 1925, and his Peterman portable 578 of 1901. The British Army of the Rhine, in the shape of 45 Field Support Squadron, showed, for the first time at such an event, a Fowler ploughing engine. In charge for the event was Staff Sergeant C.E. James, who had in the spring attended the Trust's Drivers Course to learn more about engines. He had gained much from this experience and was able to learn more from the visiting British engine owners at Bad Laer. The engine was devoid of Fowler works plate and its number was not included in the programme. My later contact with the Steam Plough Club's Records Officer, Bill Smith, revealed that the engine is still owned by the German firm of ploughing contractors, Wilhelm Ottemeyer, from whom it has been on loan to the Army since 1975. Some doubt exists as to the specific identity of the engine. SPC sources suggest it to be K7S class 13316, but Alan Duke believes it to be 13310. Both were in a batch of eight pairs, numbered 13308 to 13323, supplied by Fowler to their Magdeburg agency during 1912-1914. 13308/13309 and 13310/13311 were non-superheated class K7 ploughing engines and all four were sent to Germany in March 1914. The rest of the group were class K7S, which were superheated. Scrutiny of the engine at Bad Laer showed no features indicating it may have been superheated in the past. Confirmation from the present custodians could probably prove or disprove which of these engines, 13310 or 13316, it really is. The other engine of the pair is presumed scrapped. The above three local exhibits were supplemented by several enthusiastic Dutch owners and friends, with mainly former British engines. Included in these were Jan and Gretha Brinksma with their 1928 Sentinel Super tractor 7527 (Dutch registration ZZ-50-25, formerly MP5939); Fowler class TE type hauling and winding engine 14925 of 1917 (YKJ381), still equipped with the full set of equipment under the boiler; Aveling & Porter tractor 12020 of 1928 (KX73), owned by G. and T. Collin, and J. Linder's 1931 Fowler conversion 18640 (ZZ-51-41, ex WX7697). Ruston & Hornsby portable 544070 of 1939 owned by J. Kuizenga drove a sawbench, whilst J.L. Smeets showed STEAMING Winter 1992/93
their German built Ruthemeyer roller 716 of 1930. This latter engine is one of those which looks exactly like a Wallis & Steevens Advance roller. An interesting aside was the remark by a Dutch engineman, watching a German visitor looking at the Sentinel tractor. The man looked intently in the cab at the boiler, then walked around the vehicle and proceeded to look under the rear between the wheels — at what, one does not exactly know. The engineman's comment, typical of Dutch humour and made out of earshot lest it should offend, was "Perhaps he's looking to see whether it's a boy or a girl!" Mention must be made of some of the well known Dutch personalities to be met on this occasion. Willem Soesbergen, one of the few surviving experts in the handling of Aveling & Porter's 'coffee pot' rollers was present dispensing advice; Willem Leeraar, involved in the restoration of huge items of German machinery including a ship lift at Waltrop, showed his half size showman tractor whilst his son, Gerard, looked after Peter Borstel's engines. Another engine owner was C.A. Heikoop, who has an ex-tarspraying Fowler roller 17496 of 1931 (GN8299) — he was exhibiting his small roundabout engine, whilst Robert Verhoeven was noted taking many photographs to add to his already extensive collection. The remaining large steam exhibits had come all the way from England. Their owners are seasoned overseas adventurers, so it was nothing new for
most of them. Len and Jane Crane kept a promise, made to Peter Borstel at the previous event two years ago, to bring along their Fowler craneengine 17212 of 1929, even though it was the first weekend of the Great Dorset show. Two distinctly different showmans engines travelled to be present: Alan Fry's Burrell 2879 of 1907 PRINCESS ROYAL from Somerset, and Les and David Birch's McLaren conversion 1713 of 1922 from Kent. Completing the quartet from Dorset was Giles Romanes with GOLIATH!, his tiny Wallis steam motor of about 1904. With safety in mind, another welcome visitor was Joe Davies from Wolverhampton who, as well as showing his stationary engines, also brought his British policeman's outfit and bicycle which helped tremendously to control bystanders when engines had to move. The popularity of the event was unquestionable; people came in their droves and by the middle of the afternoons the area was full, making people-free photography of engines a virtual impossibility. Associated with the rally was a road run for some of the lorries on the Saturday, whilst on the Sunday the Unimog Veterans Club also staged a road run. On the Saturday a steam-hauled rail shuttle service was run from Ibbenburen on the main line to Bad Laer utilising a preserved class 38 locomotive, whilst the following day a longer distance steam hauled excursion from Gutersloh to Ibbenbruen and back also
Aveling & Porter 15 ton roller 5153 of 1903 at Bochum, West Germany in April 1974, already well out of use. Present part-owner Dieter Ehrenhauser is on the footplate. (D. Ehrenhauser) 19
passed the rally car park. Its a pity there were not more German engines present and one might ask the reason for this. Only by educating people in the richness of their industrial heritage is there going to be more interest generated in steam vehicles; this cycle can be self stimulating. Perhaps one or two of the many visitors will be encouraged to visit similar shows in Britain and hence become sufficiently interested to want to own and run an engine of their own. This is apparently how some, at least, of the miniature exhibit owners started their interest. Busso Hennecke and his wife Beate, our hosts for the weekend, are well known in our own East Midlands area with their 4in scale Aveling roller, built some time ago by Bill Painter or Sileby, Leicestershire. This was running around the rally site whilst Erhardt Beloch was exhibiting his similar size Foden D type tractor.
On the way to Bad Lacr, I was able to see other rollers and steam engines, Erhardt Beloch at Essen has an 8 ton Ruthemeyer roller 521 of 1927 under restoration. When completed it will be painted in a very pleasant dark blue and awaiting treatment is a somewhat larger 10 ton Zettelmeyer 302 of 1926. Also at the premises is a wonderful collection of other types of vertical and horizontal steam engines, pumps and models and a very unusual portable engine by Henschel-Lutz of Darmstadt, their 2033 of 1933. Mr Beloch, a professional restoration engineer, has previously brought Ruthemeyer single crank compound roller 42 of 1906 to steamable condition and this was rallied at Cologne a couple of years ago. During the course of this restoration, he acquired a spare Burrell type forecarriage head and front forks, which are now surplus to requirements; these are available to British enthusiasts if required. (Enquiries via the Assistant Editor, please.) Our friends then accompanied us to Bochum where, in the middle of a thunderstorm, we were able to inspect a large Aveling & Porter roller which had been standing in a quarry for perhaps 40 years, and had been somewhat severely robbed. It was very much the worse for wear, having been outside, unprotected, for so many years. Neither Busso nor Erhardt had seen this roller before, and is now at Die Fachhochschule fur Maschinwesen in Bochum. Identification was proving difficult, despite the engine sporting what the owners thought was the Aveling works plate. Not having seen an example of the makers 20
Aveling 5153 well grown into the local vegetation at Bochum in May 1991. (D. Ehrcnhauscr)
oval style the owners took to be genuine an oblong brass plate, in German, with A6700 of 1909 stamped on it. To the writer's eyes, however, something was not quite right. Casting marks on the forecarriage head and front forks showed the roller to be an R15 type (single cylinder 15 tonner), but Alan Duke's lists show the Aveling whose royalty number was 6700 to be a 6 ton compound convertible engine supplied in 1909 to the Crown Agents, tor Zomba in Nyasaland. My close inspection of the hornplates and other places, revealed the number 4037 stamped into the metal and this boiler test, or build, number 'translates' to the Aveling & Porter royalty number 5153, built in April 1903. Further investigations back home show the roller was sent to Jacob & Beckei , Leipzig, who were Aveliny's German agents at the time. Another odd thing about this Aveling's numeration is that the maker's records show that a new number plate was sent to Germany in March 1906 to be substituted for 5153. This bore number 5966, and it is also clear that no new engine was built at Rochester to this number. Regrettably, the reason for this renumbering seems likely to be lost in the mists of time, and the clouds of two wars. But a further addition to the engine's history sheet is that the note on the renumbering to 5966 is crossed through to record yet another renumbering in March 1909 as A6700. I offer three possible explanations
as to what the number A6700 referred to. It is clearly not a royalty number and could be what was referred to by the makers as a 'working number' — which could be interpreted as a job number. If Aveling's made the rectangular working pressure plate with its A6700 number, this could possibly have been the job number for its production but that is hardly a satisfactory explanation on its own, but it could relate to the third option below. The second explanation relates to a gentle sharp practice which was not unusual in some engine building circles; Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies, for example, when an engine remained in the factory unsold for some time, renumbered and redated it when sold, to make it seem new. If our roller had remained unsold in Germany by 1906 that might account for the 5966 number given at that time, if the number had not been allocated to any engine currently in build, but, later, when a second request came for a similar exercise, possibly all the
ir
if •
"MF
JR, Eqx
NU, A
ER! IF 3PH!
The enigmatic plate on the Bochum Aveling — clearly of the manufacturer's style, but for what precise purpose? (Derek Rayner) Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
Rescued from oblivion, but with many hours of preservation work ahead, Aveling 5153 stands in its stripped down form at Bochum school workshops. (D. Ehrenhauser)
numbers relevant to that period were committed. The simple addition of an A prefix allowed the number to refer to 1909 whilst avoiding confusion with the genuine 6700, which was safely out of the way in Africa. This is merely speculation and if any other Aveling authority has a better explanation, the author would be pleased to hear from them. My third explanation would be coincident with the introduction of continental legislation, which required a makers plate with working pressure, to be positioned in a prominent place on the boiler of an engine. This type of additional plate is to be found on many exported English engines and on continental built machines; it is often the only means of identifying an engine. When this requirement was introduced is not known. It would be a happy coincidence to learn that it was 1909 and some of our continental enthusiasts may wish to comment on this. We did not escape the poor weather at Bochum, for during the time the Aveling was being viewed, the heavens opened and a storm, including plenty of thunder and lightning, broke over the town. Fortunately the roller is now in the school workshops, safe from further depredations by the weather. The roller has one or two interesting features, typical of a turn of the century Aveling — the over-wide gear on the second shaft between the hornplates, with a big sliding gear on the third shaft, similar to the 1893 STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Aveling I saw at Winterthur, Switzerland in 1991 and pictured in Steaming for Summer 1991. It has short internal boiler stays, angled and attached part way down the boiler to convenient rivets and a butt jointed seam. There is also a side mounted blowdown cock adjacent to the injector clack valve on the left hand firebox side. The rear rolls, which are certainly not of an Aveling type, are 60mm thick and more reminiscent of the Schwartzkopff type observed on steam rollers of that make in the Netherlands (see Steaming, Autumn 1991, page 202). The front ones are not Aveling either, but of a nondescript cast variety, which were more than likely locally made. Overall it would have been a very heavy roller when working. One or two questions remain unanswered regarding this fine specimen: why does it have a stamped on number which is on the face of it incorrect but which has a correspondingly correct date; why should the roller have to have a new number after only three years, something which is most unusual in Aveling book-keeping circles. And why were both rolls replaced at some time in its life? The easy answer to this latter question is, of course, that the original ones were irreparably damaged at some time, but there may be other answers. A lot of work will be required to make the roller work again but it is in the good and capable hands of Herrs Mohr and Ehrenhauser and given time and the appropriate level of expenditure, it should be possible to see it
steaming again. It is possible that the boiler may have to be sent to England for heavy repairs, for the level of skill in this type of work in Germany — and the willingness to undertake one off type repairs — is no longer available within reasonable time and cost. On reflection, it was, perhaps, a long way for us to go for one rally but it was nevertheless very pleasant to be able to renew acquaintances from previous continental visits and also to make new friends. Whilst I am not decrying the organiser's efforts in staging this splendid rally, it would be nice to think that at the next one there will be more locally based engines. There are, for example, many quite modern Henschel rollers in Germany, dating from 1950-1953, and it would presumably not take much to return them to steam again, given encouragement and knowledge. Distance is of little consequence, even though Germany is a big country, when it is realised that English engines attended and one owner drove his Sentinel tractor over 150 miles to be present, certainly a very commendable effort and perhaps unparalleled for a journey by steam on continental roads in modern times. My thanks are extended to Alan Duke and Tony Olive for their assistance in providing me with much of the additional information regarding the 15 ton Aveling roller, which has proved to be such a most interesting find.
'Bedminster Coal Works, Bristol, 20 Nov 1901. Edwin Walker Esq, Dear Sir, We propose to send our Road Loco to you on Saturday afternoon next, so that you may begin to work upon it first thing on Monday morning. It will not be necessary to work over-time on it, but subject to that kindly let us have it back as early as possible, and let us have the old strips back with the engine. George Hancock, director, The Bedminster, Easton, Kingswood and Parkfield Collieries Ltd.' (A carefully worded letter to the Avonside Engine Co at Bristol (proprietor, Edwin Walker) from the owners of Fowler 85 class number 8923. Whilst the words 'old strips' could refer to worn out wheel cleats which were being replaced the engine was only delivered new to the firm earlier in 1901 and such wear and tear may seem impossible. However, at that period, road engines and steam wagons and tractors did suffer wear to their strakes to a greater and faster extent than we probably today realise.) 21
Setting back the clock
photographs by Jim Stevenson
22
Fowler Big Lion road locomotive 17105 ATLAS was last year found to be in need of new big end and main bearings as well as second shaft brasses, and was sent to Bolton, Lancashire where Fred Dibnah undertook the fitting and reassembly of the engine, using the accommodation and lifting facilities of a local engineering company. Part of the deal was that Fred would be allowed to play with his temporary toy and run in the brasses on the 30 mile run from Bolton to the Cheshire Steam Fair at Grappenhall in July. The chosen route included a detour to take the 1920 built Fowler back to the former Noi lh Gate of the Metropolitan Vickers works at Trafford Park, from where many of its revenue earning journeys began in the 1930s. Our large picture (right) depicts the clock being set back 60 years, with ATLAS posed by the end of the old fabrication shop, which still shows the superimposed painted names of the former owning companies British Westinghouse and Metropolitan Vickers Electrical Co Ltd. Above, Fred Dibnah checks on the bearings and cylinder lubrication before attacking the climb to Agden Brow, whilst steersman Mike Bozson takes a rest from the heat under the canopy. On the rally field (left) ATLAS, which is owned by James Hervey-Bathurst, meets Frank Harden's Scammell tractor which bears the Pickfords name on its cab front — ATLAS passed into that firm's ownership in 1930. k, Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
23
THE RURAL HISTORY CENTRE University of Reading Jonathan Brown A familiar friend in the world of steam preservation takes on a new name this year: the Institute of Agricultural History and Museum of English Rural Life at University of Reading becomes the Rural I listory Centre from 1st January 1993. This is the latest stage in the project to redevelop the Institute and Museum to rehouse it in buildings more fitted to the national centre for research and information that it is. The decision to adopt the new title followed the announcement that HRH The Prince of Wales was to become patron of the Rural History Centre. This unique honour for a university department recognises the special importance that the Centre has as a place for information, teaching and study in all aspects of the history of rural life; and it stems, of course, from the Prince's own deep interest and concern for the development of the countryside. The Centre's collections are wellknown to many readers of Steaming, for here are the records of John Fowler & Co (Leeds) Ltd, which include production registers, 12,000 works photographs and 30,000 drawings.
24
The surviving records of Wallis & Steevens include production records and drawings. There are similar riches in the archives of Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies, and there are some production registers for Clayton & Shuttlewoi th, and fur Marshall, mainly of their portable engines. Countless people the world over have found these collections of immense value when researching, restoring or making models of traction engines, road locomotives and portable engines. For those whose interests embrace the other implements and machines of the farm the collections are just as valuable. The collections of trade and technical literature cover more than 2,000 firms from the smallest to the great companies like International
Harvester. From these collections many a question can be answered about Ransomes threshing machines, David Brown tractors, Albion binders, Edlington potato sorters... the list is endless. The huriLons of study are broadened by the other departments of the Rural History Centre. The photographic collections have about a million images, ranging in date from the 1860s to the present. They cover every aspect of rural life, from the works photographs of steam engines and equipment through farming to landscapes and rural history. The library of 30,000 volumes contains some of the most valuable journals for the study of farm mechanisation including a complete run of Farm
The proposed Rural History Centre at Reading University depicted in a very fine coloured perspective drawing. It is hoped the building will be constructed in the traditional local Reading brick of orange-red colour. The main entrance, centre, leads to a courtyard display area for the Centre's large collection of artefacts, whilst the octagonal tower at the rear contains galleried reading and consultation areas. Suitably equipped archive storage accommodation lies to the left of the clock tower. For those who know the existing collection of temporary buildings that constitute the present Museum, the proposed new Centre is sited slightly to the right, nearer the main road, with the first stage being built on the old car park. (Rural History Centre, University of Reading)
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
Implement and Machinery Review. The exhibitions and reserve object collections of the Museum of English Rural Life, and the Rural History Database complete the integrated range of resources within the Rural History Centre. The Rural History Centre is to have a new building to replace the temporary accommodation that has been the home of the Institute for many years. The present buildings are reaching the end of their lifespan, and are full. The plans for the new building are well-advanced. The design is by Demetri Porphyros, an architect who follows the English classical tradition, and in his scheme for the Rural History Centre he draws upon the Italianate style that was a feature of nineteenthcentury building, including a number of model farmsteads. The building provides, in the octagonal tower, a reading and consultation room where people will be able to study books, documents, and photographs in greater comfort than at present is possible. There will be a new exhibition hall, teaching rooms suitable both for university use and for conferences, seminars and meetings for outside users, and there will be purpose built stores that will ensure that the invaluable collections of the Centre will be secured for generations to come. The whole project will cost £3.5 million, to be built in three, roughly equal, phases. The University of Reading has launched an appeal to raise the funds, and that is making steady progress. The organisations and individuals in the steam preservation movement have already been
Although the photographic collection at Reading is inevitably best known among engine enthusiasts for the wealth of makers official photographs of road engines it contains, of course, a wide variety of other interesting images. This picture comes from an album in the Marshall collection, but the volume had probably come to them from Clayton & Shuttle worth, made up as a record of their products and business. The vehicle is 'No 24 Sleeping Van' built by the Yorkshire Wagon Co in 1914 and sign written 'County Council of Salop, North Western Division, A.T. Davies, County Surveyor'. It was presumably supplied to Salop for the use of their road repair gangs by Clayton, who had bought in the van from the Yorkshire firm. The latter's premises (where were these?) appear to form the background of the picture. Note the coal and materials storage space behind the rear axle, also the alternative drawbars — the horse shafts fixed in position and an iron A-bar for hitching up to steam rollers lying under the forecarriage. On and around the duckboarding at the front lie the van's provided utensils — galvanised buckets, two saucepans, three enamel mugs, a frypan, kettle, two hard brushes, a bowl and two scrubbing brushes. (Rural History Centre, University of Reading) Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies Ltd, advertising in The Agricultural Chronicle, August 1904.
Appointed by Royal Warrant Manufacturers of Agricu ltural and Horticultural Machinery to His Molestsing K Eard dw VII.
STEAM THRASHING MACHINERY. FIRST-CLASS MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP.
SIMPLE, DURABLE, ECONOMICAL, EFFICIENT.
RANSOMES, SIMS AND JEFFERIES, LTD., IPSWICH. STEAMING Winter 1992/93
25
Charles Burrell & Sons Ltd, advertising in The Agricultural Chronicle, January 1903.
most generous in support for this project. We at the Rural History Centre are extremely grateful and encouraged by that support, and trust it will continue so that our mutual interests in preservation and conservation can be carried forward. If you would like to find out more about the Rural History Centre, or to make a contribution, please contact me at the Rural History Centre, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 2AG lir 0734 3186661. A record of all donors is being kept, so that suitable recognition can be made when the new Centre is built. It ie hoped that there will be a special celebration at the Centre to thank all contributors after the project is finished. (Jonathan H. Brown, BA, PhD, is Business Records Officer at the Rural History Centre.)
Telegraphic Address— " BURRELL, THETFORD." A. B. C. aod Lieber's Codes axed.
ROAD LOCOMOTIVES AND TRACTION ENGINES. Pitted with Crane In Front.
ROAD LOCOMOTIVE. Single Cylinder or Compound ante Mounted On Spring,
ROAD ROI IFRS,
0*.
With CompoUnd or Stogie Cyllndere. Cleo converlible to Traction Engines. With or Without Patent goarifier.
TRACTION ENGINES, 47,1rird at "di' nil=
Send Mr No. .5 Ilh,otrnlyd Cninfogoe.
TECHNICAL TOPICS Governor problems Hamish Orr-Ewing Alex Walford's interesting article on power testing in the Autumn Steaming commented that few engines ran well on the governor. This prompted me to review the new
worn
governor performance of our 7hp Marshall which had seemed to govern acceptably until Mr Walford's comments showed me I was wrong! The response to increased load was lethargic and the revs dropped more than the 5% quoted in the article. Furthermore no fiddling about with the adjustment made it any better. Having limited knowledge of governors I tackled the job by trying to restore the system so far as possible to its original state. This has been well worthwhile and a brief description may be of help to others. The governor system is composed of two main elements. The visible bit, which reacts to speed of rotation due to centrifugal force on the governor balls, and the valve, which controls the amount of steam reaching the valve chest. The valve was the main source of the trouble. It is of the type used in most traction engines and shown in the accompanying sketch. Steam enters through ports in the housing between the two valves exerting roughly equal pressure
upwards and downwards. The valve can therefore be opened and closed with very little effort. Examination revealed a number of defects: • the valve had become recessed into the housing, rather like a worn car valve, but more so. It needed to
The restored governor valve 26
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
drop 3/isin before much extra steam was admitted. • the rectangular 'eye' for the actuating lever was enlarged by wear and the pad on the lever Itself had become misshapen. Surprisingly there was very little wear in the bore of the housing — just as well because it was impossible to remove without destroying it. A new valve could have been made, either from bronze bar (expensive and a lot of turning and milling) or from a casting but making), pattern (tricky restoration of the old valve seemed practicable. The stem joining upper and lower valves was cut out, each half was then mounted in a lathe by the guide wings, drilled and tapped to accommodate a long stud to connect the two parts. The valve bodies were turned down to provide a register on which to mount oversize bronze rings, silver soldered in place. The bridge of the lifting eye was cut through and closed up to eliminate the effects of wear and studs were fitted to hold down the bridge.
The shoulders of the original valves are rounded above the contact line. I don't know whether this is an important part of the design but I reproduced it to be on the safe side. The photograph shows the restored valve. The wear had adversely affected the geometry of the whole system, using up the adjustment on the governor arms, added to which the bottom bush supporting the governor spindle had worn, allowing the whole assembly to sink. When the restored valve was tested on the engine, by putting a wooden beam between the rope drum and the flywheel and leaning on it, the improvement was clearly evident and quite rewarding. Perhaps the Editor can persuade Mr Watford to contribute an article on governors. I suspect that few of us know much about them and their problems; what causes governor 'hunting' for example? A beginners guide would be very welcome.
Marshall hind axles Having at times scratched his head in puzzlement when removing the hind axle of his Marshall tractor, Mike Jones of Ruthin suggests the reproduction of the diagram and instructions from the Britannia Works pamphlet 699 may interest other
Marshall owners — or anyone else who likes to study the way different makers tackled various engineering problems. The instructions, printed on a three-fold card, were in English, German, French and Spanish.
Instructions for fitting Hind Axles of Traction Engines and Road Rollers. 1. Secure the driving centre 1 in position on axle 2 by means of keys 3 driven in tightly in direction of arrow 4. 2. When Winding Drum is supplied, slip the washer marked D.W. over boss of axle box 5, and place winding drum on boss of driving centre 1. 3. Slip the washer marked L.H. over the axle and close up to the driving centre 1 as shown on diagram. 4. Slide the axle 2 into position through the axle boxes 5 and 5a in the direction of arrow 6. 5. Place the washer marked R.H. over the axle, close up to the axle box 5a, as shown on diagram. 6. Key the bevel wheel 7 on axle 2, by means of keys 8, driven in direction of arrow 9. STEAMING Winter 1992/93
'A Makeshift Eccentric Strap. — About four years ago I was driving a single-cylinder traction engine, and being out late, I was hurrying to get back home, when I had the misfortune to break an eccentric strap. This, on a single-cylinder tractor, means a certain stoppage. I wired off at once to my firm for a new strap, but as they were over two hundred miles away, I knew that I should have to wait some time before it came, so in the meantime I thought I would try an experiment with a wooden strap. Using my broken strap as a pattern, I cut one out of a piece of wellseasoned ash, leaving it a trifle thicker and about %in narrower than the pattern. I then cut out and fitted an Vain plate on each side, and firmly riveted them both together. I then soaked the wooden strap well with oil and fitted it on the engine, and then tried the latter out of gear for a while, and found that the strap seemed to answer well. I then forged out two strips of spring steel, %in x Vain, and cut a groove out of the centre of the strap on the inside, and let these pieces of spring steel in, thereby forming a wearing surface. Having successfully fitted this wooden strap, I managed to get to work again as usual next day, and the strap answered well until I was able to get the new one, and even then I did not put it on until a fortnight later, when I stopped to wash out and have a general inspection of the engine and boiler. On taking this wooden strap off, I found that it was practically as good as when I first put it on, and I believe it would have run for many months. If I should be caught again, I shall certainly try the same dodge, and I see no reason why this should not answer as well on steam waggons or lorries. — C.G.' (from Motor Traction, 6th May 1911.) 'Water Analyses. — We are grateful to find that a number of owners of wagons and tractors have already availed themselves of our offer to undertake the analysis of water with a view to the furnishing of a report as to the best procedure to secure a reasonable degree of softening before use in any boiler. We have been congratulated upon this new facility, and we hope it may be possible hereafter to reduce the special terms which we have secured in the interests of our readers.' (from Motor Traction, 5th September 1907.) 'Mann's 5 ton Steam Wagon, in first class working condition, cheap for cash, or hire purchase. Freestone, (from Motor Saffron Walden.' Traction, 17th June 1911.) 27
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE NEEDING ECONOMICAL REPAIRS ON THEIR TRACTION ENGINES
B. & C. Reconditioning (Gears) Ltd PINIONS
SPURS
BEVELS
All types and makes of bevel gears, spur pinions, spur wheels, helical gears etc rebuilt to standard
Our address is:
B & C Reconditioning (Gears) Ltd, off London Road, Amesbury, Wiltshire SP4 7EQ Telephone Amesbury (0980) 623210 I 28
Winter 1.992/93 STEAMING
Steaming Around Compiled from members notes and reports by Derek Rayner
Restoration in an historically correct manner has been a recent topic of discussion in the shed at tea break time — between furious bouts of stripping old painted surfaces of dirt and grease and generally making ready to apply new paint. We have not, during our verbal banter, exactly defined the term historically correct, but it has generally come to mean that the steam engine being restored should be turned out in a way it may have looked at some time during its working life. The question then arises of the degree of authenticity to be sought; whether, for example, during the course of renovating an old machine, such things as metric threads and nuts should be used — because they are easily available, and Whitworth examples are not. And in the same vein, whether old style full sized nuts, as were originally manufactured, should be sought in preference to the modern smaller versions. In certain instances — in the manufacture of new boilers and fireboxes for example — it is perhaps no longer possible to obtain imperial size plates from which to make replacement items. For example, the new foundation ring in my own 1915 Aveling roller has been cut from a slab
BEDFORDSHIRE The 24th Roxton rally was very lucky with the weather in September, for it didn't rain until about 6 o'clock on the Sunday. There were a lot of people on site on the Saturday evening for entertainment by the Saunders Steam Show with dancing girls and singers. Many engines stayed in steam to be at this evening event, making it a very good show. Six newcomers to
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
of metric thickness plate to get the wall thickness correct rather than trying to make it out of metric bar; the thickness of the plate does not exactly match the original but it is close — and in any case it is totally hidden from view! There are, however, some who might say "but that is not good enough". Many traction engines now have their hind wheels covered with
sections cut from old tractor type tyres, and it is accepted that they do make for an easier ride on the road. But they are certainly not correct from an historical point of view and this modern addition detracts from the engine's character. Today's paint finishes look good and in many instances they are sprayed — because modern technology is available to allow this. But, if one is going to undertake an authentic restoration project under our aforementioned loosely defined terms, should this modern process be used? One cannot imagine the paint shop foreman at Aveling's works allowing such equipment anywhere near his workshop, It would be brushes and much rubbing down between coats until the top coat of varnish went on, so for an engine to be correct today
the event included Keith Honour's 1913 Garrett showmans style tractor 31193 (BJ1659); a similar Garrett, 33899 of 1920 (BJ5333), owned by John Page and still in the process of being restored but running very well; Aveling roller 12103 of 1928
(SM7013) belonging to A. end D. Harvey and Jim Stanley's 1917 Aveling roller 8837 (N01221); A. Steven's 1898 Burrell traction 2112
surely it should not be sprayed. The Robey Trust has endeavoured in the finishing of its Robey tandem roller, to reproduce a correct historical restoration and sought out old crafts and equipment for the painting process to enable this to be so. They are to be commended for their diligence. The Sentinel Drivers Club's encouragement of wagons carrying the livery of past owners is t^ he applauded; much better that we nave reproductions of liveries and lettering of days gone by on the rally fields on different wagons than the name of the current owner and some fictitious haulage company, however well it may be painted. Perhaps the whole topic of authentirlty could do with an airing in the Letters column?
I would like to thank all members and friends who have sent the various details from which this section has been prepared — and wish all readers Good Steaming for the New Year. Also, thank you to the affiliated clubs who regularly send magazines and contributions — to those who feel their area is not adequately represented, please add my address to your mailing list. Hollycombe Steam Collection, Somerset TEC, Southern Counties HVPT, Steam Plough Club, Thames Valley TEC, West of England SES and John Bainbridge, Req Bosley, Percy Dabbs, Trevor Daw, Steve Denton, Gerry Doherty, Mike Dyson, Mrs E. Finch, Martin Fletcher, Pat Freeman, Mick Gaines-Burrill, C.H. Gooch, Peter Green, Andrew Hall, Peter Haywood, Richard Hullah, Nigel Keene, Robin Knox, Alan Nash, Robert Rees, John Reeves, Sandy Ross, Lyndon Shearman, Neil Smith, Alan Thomas, 'Tomo from the Living Van', Wumf Tuxworth, Deryk Vernon, Bernie Ward, Michael Watts, Roger West and Barry Wood, and not forgetting Traction Engine Register for the detail references. Press date for the next issue is the last day of January. Information, news and letters by then please to
D.A. Rayner, 'Invicta', 9 Beagle Ridge Drive, Acomb, York YO2 3JH. Press dates for future issues are the last day of April and July 1993.
(TB2849) and 1901 Fowler agricultural 9271 (AJ5819), belonging to P. Allen, from Lincolnshire, and looking very much as it would have looked in its working days. For the first time ever at Roxton, no ploughing engines attended, even though a pair had been promised. A week after Roxton, a steam party was held at Gamlingay for grand old man of steam Teddy Davenport,
29
An engine new to the rally scene made its first appearance at Roxton rally last September. Garrett 4CD tractor 33899 was built in August 1920, being supplied to Curry & Dodd, carriers, at Belfast. In due course the engine was purchased by McGiverns of Warrenpoint, Co Down, and converted to showmans specification. The Garrett is now named QUEEN PHILLIPA, though it is thought to have been unnamed during its working life. As will be seen the engine is not fitted with rubbers; the dynamo, without identification, is thought to be of continental origin. (Eric Sawford)
for his 85th birthday. A road run with twelve engines via two local public houses ended at David Davenport's farm where a barbecue was held in the evening. About two hundred of Ted's family and friends attended, making it a most enjoyable day. Ted Wootton has added yet another engine to his ever growing collection. He purchased Ruston Proctor traction 36828 of 1909 (KE 4991) at auction. The 5hp single cylinder engine has since been steamed at its new home, but is thought to be in need of a new firebox before much longer.
BERKSHIRE Two engines have recently changed hands in the area and they were both to be seen at the 1992 Knowl Hill rally in August. Fowler ploughing engine 2013 of 1873 (AL8463) had been purchased by Knowl Hill chairman John Keeley from our Trust's vice-chairman Eric Fillmore. After having stood in a barn for some nine years, it was to be seen working only three weeks later at the Great Dorset Steam Fair. The second engine was 1915 Burrell showmans 3651 (HR3964) EARL KITCHENER, 30
which has been brought by David Fowler junior. Also at Knowl Hill, many enthusiasts were surprised to see John Paul's 1912 Ruston Proctor Colonial traction 44180 make it around the area under its own power — this engine is highly unusual, being a single speed machine fitted, American style, with a flywheel clutch. It was brought back from the Philippines a few years ago. At the end of September, eleven engines attended a steam up at the Seven Stars pub at Knowl Hill, an event combined with Reg Dore's stag night. The attenders included Dave Spooner's now unique Shay type Aveling 7411 of 1912 (XP29151, Jumbo Palmer's 1924 Wallis roller 7799 (H06354) and John Keeley's 1929 Sentinel Super wagon 8109/ 6722 (YC7914). John showed a couple more of his engines, the recently acquired Fowler ploughing engine 13910 and his 1912 Clayton & Shuttleworth portable 45269.
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE Peter Williams, having had quite enough of leaking tubes in his otherwise beautiful and well behaved Aveling tractor 9225 of 1920
(CJ4160) CLEMENTINE, has completely retubed the beast. His gallant wife apparently did most of the work and then steered the completed machine to Little Wymondley, to make sure they were alright. Well done Lucy!! The engine has since completed a number of outings, including a 110 mile round trip to Roxton Park with living van in tow. The only problem encountered was chronic clinkering on the return journey — due to some very strange black stuff in the firebox not burning as it should have done. This was allegedly from an open cast pit in Britain, but more likely the location's name ended in 'ski'. The annual Burnham Club's event at the Royal Oak, Paley Street was a great success. A good turn out of a dozen engines was complemented by a full range of stalls and activities housed in a marquee on the pub's patio. A collection at this event and earlier raised a thousand pounds which was handed over to the Binfield Park Hospital. A road run was staged during the afternoon and was strongly supported by the Chiltern Club. Engines present included Anthony Heal's McLaren road loco BOADICEA, Jim Sarney's Burrell road loco LORD ROBERTS and Phil Honour's 1921 Aveling roller 9314 (HR4399). Others present included Wallis roller 7799 of 1924 (H06354) owned by Jumbo Palmer, John Keeley's Fowler DD class ploughing engine 13910 (AB9987) and Burrell show tractor 3497 of 1913 (H05993) MAY QUEEN, on its last outing in Ted Gale's ownership. The engine is now owned by Jeff Shackell. The West Bucks Steam Working at Worminghall was a great success with most of the engines performing a working task throughout the weekend. Driving his father's Tasker rack saw bench was Noel Greenaway's 1921 Burrell agricultural 3917 (TA2374), whilst on a threshing drum was the father and son team of Roy and Peter Green with their 1899 Fowler 5hp general purpose 7942 (TA626). Ransomes traction 20760 of 1908 (2891UR), owned by Allan Frost, baled the loose straw from the drum, whilst something which created quite a bit of interest was Steve Parrott's 1908 Marshall agricultural 51025 (D02056). Game for anything, it engaged in a bit of direct traction ploughing. Water bowsers were being pulled around the site by Doug Williamson's 1920 Garrett tractor 33782 (BL5337) and Peter Williams' Aveling tractor CLEMENTINE, whilst illumination for the evening's entertainment was provided by David Wren Davis' 1904 Burrell showmans 2668 Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
(NM257) BRITANNIA. The Chiltern Club's back end road run and other festivities were held at the end of October, preceeded by the customary practice event at the Three Horse Shoes, Seer Green the previous weekend. The Saturday was spent in the Honour's yard where resident and visiting engines were in steam. Refreshments were served, a raffle and a sale were held, followed by a truly riveting demonstration of boiler repair work using a very heavy duty air operated rivet squeezer. The combined effort of a team comprising Jim Sarney at the regulator, Colin Slade on the forge and a support crew of gofers, fixers and finders headed by Phil Honour made short work of replacing eleven 3/4 inch rivets in the tube plate of Aveling 15 ton roller 8717 of 1916 (SX923) owned by Mr Thompson. This engine is continuing its steady return to steam as time permits. The demonstration proved popular with old hands and visitors alike, despite some rain showers. Another engine present in its underclothes was Boughton's ex Aberdeen C.C. Tasker tractor. This is a chain drive machine, type B2, 1765 of 1918 (SRI 2521. After spending several years in the wilderness, it has now been delivered to Phil Honour so that
he might in due course return it to its former glory. Another rare bird was Doug Cooper's 1927 Sentinel Super 6725 (KA55741, an infrequent visitor, which nevertheless made up a nice trio of this marque, joining Ian Woollett's 8448, the SD4 of 1930 (UX8724), and John Keeley's Super. Some of the regulars from the Paley Street event were here, as well as Boughton's quartet and Dave Knott's 1920 Aveling traction 9096 (AF60011, recently retubed and back in action. Two rollers present were Mike and Rosa Collier's 1937 Aveling-Barford 14187 (FPH122) ULTIMUS and Fow.ler 18659 of 1930 (3969DG) owned by Alan Garwell and Dave Pond. Those brave enough to face the somewhat unkind elements on the Sunday lit up their charges and headed for the hills, finishing up in the warm and dry at the Red Lion Inn at Chenies. The hill, Stoney Lane, of considerable steepness and with a few bends, was taken by several of the participants with differing degrees of driver skill. Some took things carefully, others, like Boughton's Fowler traction BLACK JACK blasted its way up with a big plume of black smoke and Martin Fagg on McLaren BOADICEA eclipsed all by blowing all the leaves off the
trees. Finally, to end on d sad note, Molly Ruff, wife of the late Bernard Ruff, died in mid October. She had been a tireless helper and supporter of the Chiltern Club of which Bernard was chairman for many years.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE The Wood Green Rally at Godmanchester increased its size in 1992, there being over twenty engines present. In spite of the expansion there continues to be an emphasis on different types of engine and different makes. Most engines were local, but some, such as Burrell showmans 3912 of 1921 (C044851 DRAGON owned by the Chamberlain family and looked after by Bill Gale, were from outside the immediate locality. Another engine from the north of the county was Aveling roller 5598 of 1904 (XD8052) owned by Paul Jennings. The appearance of this engine seems to improve all the time. In contrast, John Forshaw's 1930 Foden wagon 13764 (TF3106) is maintained as a working machine. Late August saw the beginning of Geoff Gilbert's threshing round with his 1924 Burrell traction 3984 (NU4495). On the first weekend, at Somersham, the engine was belted to
Traditional Machinery - traditional Values These days it seems that maintaining traditional machinery means not-sotraditional prices or standards of service. So, we are pleased to be appointed by the NTET as the official provider of inspection services to its members at specially discounted costs - Flat annual charge for statutory inspections - thorough (cold) and working (hot) - and including fragmentation cover. All at L150 per item b't t I .41 I..
• •
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
- Further discounts where more than one item of plant is to be inspected at the same time and place. And with Cornhill Insurance being BS 5750 Quality Assured and a member of the NCSIIB you can be sure of a service that is to the most exacting of traditional standards. 111111 CORN H I LL
Insurance For further information contact Geoff Godwin at Cornhill Insurance PLC, Engineering Department, 57 Ladymead, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1DB
For Members of the National Traction Engine Trust 31
0
a Marshall threshing drum and despite appalling conditions, including rain, wind and mud, all the work was completed. The following weekend, at Over, the engine powered a Foster machine. This time the weather was ideal but the stack was not sufficiently large to match the enthusiasm of the threshing gang, who would have liked to have continued the work much longer. The East Anglian Traction Engine Society's annual rally at Haddenham in September had a mixed bag of weather. Saturday was fine but rain spoilt the Sunday, making difficulties for engines leaving the field at the end of the day. There was a large engine entry, with over fifty engines present, of which half a dozen were steam The Fodens. mainly wagons, exception was the Sentinel of Dan Doncaster, Standard 183 1V5131, which is an amalgam of three wagons. In recent years, a large emphasis has been placed on working demonstrations at this event and in 1992, Fowler AA7 ploughing engine 16053 of 1925 1E65518), owned by the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, was paired with BB1 15453 ITW1803), also of 1925, for a demonstration of cultivating. This latter engine is owned by Richard Parrott. Barry Peacock's 1920 Ransomes traction 31298 (SA4253) provided a threshing 32
Fowler showmans engine 15657 KITCHENER is arguably the most widely known of all fairground engines nowadays, through its expoits as principle star in the popular 1960s film The Iron Maiden and subsequently from years of very widespread appearances at rallies. Thousands of pictures must have been taken of the engine by an admiring public, but the photographer who took this scene would have been a somewhat rarer devotee, for it depicts KITCHENER in its working days, and in relatively plain trim. The 7hp Fowler is shown after rebuilding from its original road locomotive form, and when owned by Mrs H. Oadley. The scene — date unknown — is at the Incroft at Ashover, Derbyshire where the July wakes were held each year, and Frank Oadley poses, hand on the hind wheel. Member Frank Hammond of Ashover, who kindly sent the picture for our use, comments: 'The Oadley family were based at nearby Alfreton, and the story is handed down that when the 1920 built engine was purchased, Mrs Oadley took along the money safely sewn in the top of her skirt, to be cut out at the actual time of payment. The family's first engine, also acquired secondhand, was Wallis & Steevens 6hp road engine 7052 of 1908, which they called LITTLE WONDER, and after World War 2 it stood out of use in the mine yard at Milltown, Ashover. About 1951 I was offered it for £20 but this was a lot of money then, especially as I'd only just started in business. So the Wallis was cut up — the boiler went to a dairy at Chesterfield for sterilizing and the dynamo was taken off and put on one of the lorries.'
demonstration as usual, driving a Ransomes drum and baler. Other engines on show included Steve Neville's Burrell road loco DUKE OF KENT, Jon Gorman's 1904 Fowell traction 93 (CE7894) and Allchin 1458 of 1909 (DD2006), owned by octogenarian Bill Davenport. Another rare engine on show was Davey Paxman agricultural 13073 (NK967) new in 1907 and now owned by Duncan Marston. The small 4hp
Ruston & Hornsby portable 173763 of 1934 belonging to Julian Measures was driving a Blake Marston 16in stone crusher. The engine had a new firebox in 1990.
CHESHIRE The Malpas Vintage Machinery Association's event at Hampton Old Hall in mid September had an engine attendance of about thirty in addition to which there were one or two Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
miniatures and steam cars listed in the programme. Frank Lythgoe supplied three showmans engines, and also present was George Coles' 1913 Clayton traction 46059 (CE7943) together with another agricultural engine, Ransomes 26994 of 1916 (WT1271) owned by Pete Warby. Bill Dakin's Davey Paxman traction 16849 of 1911 (AF3373) was also present as was the recently repatriated Foden wagon 7536 of 1917 (T8750) owned by John Rogers; this had spent some time in a Museum in Michigan, USA until recently. Rollers included Dave Lomas's Aveling 10753 of 1924 INU3041), Garrett 34084 of 1922 (BJ7045) owned by John Millington and Alan Porter's 1913 Burrell 3535 (TB2710). A couple of engines noted for sale in the area have been a Fowler tractor and also an Aveling tractor — the latter is understood to have been 'for restorationl They are two conversions — H. White's Aveling 6240 of 1907 (AWB997), which used to be a Yorkshire based roller working in the Doncaster area, and Fowler 21222 (CS5409) which was new into Scotland as a roller in 1937. A roller to change hands is the late Peter Walton's 1903 Aveling 5199 INX3691, which is now owned by Andrew Rathbone.
CORNWALL During the summer months, the county's engine ranks were further augmented by the addition of three engines. One of these was a very rare bird indeed — a Foden Sun tractor, only three of which are known to survive. This example went, when new in 1930, to South Africa and is
now owned by Ian Moore of Hampshire who has business interests in the Duchy and has thus taken 13630 to the West Country for further refurbishment. Of the other two similar tractors, one is in Lincolnshire, the other in Russia. David Cowling has acquired Aveling showmans style tractor 9179 (CJ4158), new in 1920 to Herefordshire County Council as a standard Colonial tractor. She has just had major boiler repairs and when completed will be a welcome addition to the county's rallying engines. The final newcomer is a bit of a mystery as little is known about the Wallis & Steevens Advance roller in question. It arrived some little while ago and the new owner, Neil Davey, has quite a task In front of him since much of the roller is missing, including the complete top works. Nothing is known of the roller's history at the time of going to press but hopefully further information about the roller, which is not in Traction Engine Register, will be forthcoming in due course. During the summer, the St Buryan rally featured John Nicholls' 1927 Fowler roller 16979 (WW1442) and Burrell traction 3902 of 1921 (MA 7503) owned by Len Hosking. During the same weekend, the Morval rally was supported by a number of engines including John Vincent's newly refurbished Garrett showmans style tractor 30959 of 1912 (BJ1458), now bearing the name CORNISHMAN; Peter Wright's 1925 Burrell showmans tractor 3951/4028 (RL1978) and Burrell roller 4041 of 1926 (U0793) belonging to Steve Buscombe.
August was the time for the Duchy's three main rallies. The Cornish TP Club held their annual show at St Issey during the first weekend. The weather was not brilliant but it stayed dry for most of the time. The club's best entry ever was achieved with around thirty engines being present. These included Anthony Heal's McLaren road loco 1652 of 1919 (WF1864) BOADICEA making its first Cornish appearance, Dave Davies' 1914 Robey traction 33348 (Z200) and John and Anne Dyke's newly restored Burrell showmans 3423 of 1912 (CJ4152) STAR. This engine had steamed to the event, only to incur problems with the pistons which unfortunately put it out of action for the weekend. It was the first appearance for some time in full showmans trim for another Burrell, 3159 THE GLADIATOR on which owner Dave Goodwin and helpers, to complete the job, had worked wonders in only a few weeks. STAR was towed back to George Hawkins' farm by Robin Daniel's Burrell road loco 3937 of 1922 (SU1212) to effect repairs in time to appear at the West of England SE Society's rally at St Agnes. In the event, the new pistons did not arrive until the Friday prior to the event but by the judicious use of a low loader to get the engine to the rally site at Tywarnhale Farm, and much burning of midnight oil, the engine made the grand parade with minutes to spare. A very creditable effort indeed by those concerned. The week following St Agnes, STAR steamed across the county to Liskeard in readiness for the rally at Merrymeet, proving herself very capable on the road.
WORLD'S FAIR The outdoor entertainment weekly incorporating
ell e
_
A a
02r .r 6,
-
A
astt. 1 ",,S
• arw iL74'A, 7,34P
Rallies, News, Reports and Advertising
Place a regular order NOW with your newsagent. Something to sell? An event to promote? For all your advertising requirements there is no batter publication. For advertising and subscription details contact: The World's Fair Ltd., P.O. Box 57, Oldham OL1 4813. 061-624 3687
Ts
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
33
The St Agnes event had a very well represented line up of 52 engines plus steam cars and miniatures. There were a dozen or so first time attenders, including McLaren BOADICEA, STAR, two Burrell road locomotives — 3197 of 1910 (AB8904) owned by Dave Allen and Ted Freeman's 1912 engine 3395 (FJ1536) — and Mark Wingfield's 1912 Burrell Gold Medal tractor 3355 (AH5240). Others present included Steve Buscombe's Burrell roller, Dave Davies' Robey and Aveling roller 11969 of 1927 (VB1 1071 belonging to David Cowling. Another Aveling roller, Roger Pridham's 1925 single 11220 (RL1085) was awarded the Charles Gregory Memorial Trophy for the engine travelling furthest under its own steam to the event. The weekend after St Agnes was the August bank holiday and with it came the bad weather. The LSVC rally at Liskeard had a steam cultivating demonstration using Daniel brothers ploughing engines and they were virtually the only engines moving due to the poor conditions. High winds and heavy rain made Sunday a disastrous day but Monday's situation improved — but by then the damage had been done. Engines attending included Bert Camp's Burrell traction 3034 of 1908 (AF3580) and from Somerset, Tony Marshall agricultural Beeching's 43345 of 1905 (AF3520). Another event that same weekend was an olde-tyme festival at Newquay organised by Whitbread Brewery. Visiting the Duchy to join the locally owned Foden wagon 11208 of 1924 (YA7952) belonging to Dennis and Nestine Warren was John Crawley's 1926 Foden C type 12364 (TW4207). Another visitor from afar was Mick Goulding's steam driven gallopers down from Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire. This set, originally powered by a Walker centre engine, is now fitted with a Tidman engine. During the first weekend in September, Richard Sandercock staged a rally at his new premises at Milford, near Lifton. The weather was not at all kind for this first event at which 27 engines were present. Mick Goulding's gallopers called on their way back from Newquay and engines included Richard's own fleet — Burrell road loco 3996 of 1924 1E9597) and Marshalls 69303 of 1915 INM3401, 88097 of 1937 (DAF499) respectively traction and roller. Aubrey Sanders showed former Truro Corporation Fowler roller 18873 (CV3579), new in 1930. An engine noted for sale in the county at an asking price of £26,500 was Burrell traction 3918 of 1923 34
The late Jack Hampshire's Foden wagon 13716 of 1930 was a well known rally attender in southern counties in early rally days. It is seen here under hydraulic test following the fitting of a new tubeplate and smokebox at Bicknell's boiler works in June 1992 and will doubtless resume its rallygoing in Mrs Hampshire's name before too long. (Peter Love) (PU578) owned by David Hicks. This engine used to be with Ken Ellwood in Yorkshire, before going south.
CUMBRIA A charity event involving regulars at the Museum Inn in the centre of Penrith occasioned a photograph in the local paper of participants handing over their cheque beneath the inn sign. Presumably the location of the pub in question is close by the Penrith Steam Museum (late Stalkers, traction engine repairers, in the centre of town► for it features a picture of what appears to be a Foden brewers dray. (Editorial note: it would be nice to receive a black and white picture of this sign to feature in the magazine.)
DERBYSHIRE In late October, fairground history was re-made at the Ilkeston Charter Fair when two well known Fowler showmans engines, REPULSE and RENOWN, 15652 and 15653, both appeared on the same fairground again. The two 1920 built ex John Murphy engines have in recent years appeared on the same rally field but it is believed to be the first time that they have both worked on the same Guild fairground since before World War 2, when they travelled with Murphy's Proud Peacocks ride. The event was made even more special in that the grandson of John Murphy, himself
John Murphy, was present at the Ilkeston event with his Meteorite ride, and was able to see the historic meeting for himself. The present owners of RENOWN are Ian and Gary Howard whilst Terry Gibson owns REPULSE which was brought along for the occasion by Colin Brothwell.
DEVON In the Barnstaple area James Murch's 1913 Ruston Proctor roller 48359 (TA2894) remains stored. George Tribe continues with the restoration of his Aveling traction 6407 of 1907 (TA2759). An engine advertised for sale in the county is Wallis agricultural 2918 of 1906 (TA351) owned by S. Dance of Buckfastleigh. The asking price was £37,000. Another reported to have changed hands is 1914 Aveling conversion 8432 (NM244) which has been sold by Gerry Stoneman and Ian Bray to Aubrey Sanders — owner of Fowler roller 18873 of 1930 (CV3579). It has been reported that a Garrett tractor has been purchased by Mr Boone although which specific machine is not known at present.
CO DURHAM Seaburn Park, Sunderland was once again the venue for a one day steam event in August. Among engines attending were Frank Lythgoe's Fowler showmans KING Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
CARNIVAL; John Smith's 1903 Fowler traction 9544 (DS6584); Henry Thompson's Foden tractor 13218 of 1928 (BUP71) and Foster traction 2373 of 1899 (002050) owned by George Vardy. The Stephenson Museum's event this year included a seven mile road run for the steam entries. The engines attending included Barry Stafford's Foden wagon 13476 of 1929 (KX5003), formerly T.T. Boughton & Sons; Clayton convertible 38742 of 1906 (NL1216) owned by Digger Lister; John Bainbridge's 1901 Fowler crane engine 8920 (SG4713) and S. Ritchie's 1923 Fowler roller 16008 ISG8149). Foden tractor 13536 of 1930 (RY9259) owned by H. Wakefield was also present. At the end ur September, the Darlington Carnival Parade was held through the streets of the town. Joining the various floats and bands
was the Aveling roller of John l'Anson, 11558 of 1926 (RM2950). A late event in 1992 was a vintage vehicle rally held at Eastgate, near Stanhope in the Wear Valley. Engines present included H. Wakefield's Foden, George Vardy's Foster and the splendid Fowler crane engine belonging to John Bainbridge. One engine to leave the county is Ruston Proctor portable 52173 of 1918 which has languished in the Hetton-le-Hole yard of the Wakefield family for many years. The new owner is a Mr Charlton from Northumberland. Finally, enthusiasts in the county have been heartened by the news that the Chester-le-Street rally is to reappear on the 1993 calendar after a break of some twenty years. The new site is Riverside Park, overlooked by the impressive Lumley Castle and is within a quarter of a mile of the very first rally to be held in the north east,
at Lambton Park, in the mid 1950s.
EIRE The Moynalty steam threshing event took place near Kells, Co Meath, in early August. As usual, this well known yearly event attracted a huge crowd in good weather and the surplus monies from the event were donated to local charities. There were five engines present at the show, all traction engines: H. Rowntree's 1917 McLaren single 1447 (AI3164) from Kingscourt; John Dillon's 1904 Burrell 2644 (IY36) from Drogheda; Clayton & Shuttleworth single 47134 new to the Dublin Show in 1915, and now owned by G. King, Dunleer, and two Ransomes engines, 11412 of 1897 (F11407) owned by J. Glynn, Carlow and B. O'Gorman's 31100 of 1920 (IP711) from Naas.
ESSEX The sixth steam and craft fair took place at Barleylands Farm Museum at the end of September and in spite of adverse weather conditions early in the week, there was a large turn out of machines, stalls and public. For at least five of the engines on view, it was their first appearance at this particular event. These were Charlie Dore's 1927 Aveling roller 11956 (UP327), recently acquired from North Yorkshire; Ruston Proctor traction 50278 of 1914 (CE7949) owned by Robert Pumfrey; the Vickery family's Aveling convertible roller 6319 of 1907 (BP7501) and two Fowler ploughing engines, both BB1 types — Dave Anton's 15165 of 1918 (WR7180) and Simon Webb's 13482 (N0797), new in 1913.
Two views of one of the quartet of Fowler Super Lion road locomotives delivered to showmen in the early 1930s. KING CARNIVAL II, Fowler 19783 was delivered in April 1932 to West Hartlepool showman Frank McConville, but was diverted to more mundane work during World War 2, and ended up, from the early 1950s working for John Thompson (Wolverhampton) Ltd, where it was used for the delivery of their Lancashire hnilers etc. The top picture (collection Mike Jones) shows the engine in Thompson's yard in 1955, shorn of its showland fittings. Peter Love took the second photograph at the Wincanton, Somerset event in August 1992, and it shows KING CARNIVAL II as restored to its original condition, now widely rallied by Frank Lythgoe, along with several other well known showland engines. STEAMING Winter 1992/93
35
The century old Burrell traction 1606 (N02533) SPANKER which has been in the ownership of the White family for 71 years was perhaps the oldest traction engine on show, but the veteran exhibit by far was Richard Pierce's 1877 Fowler ploughing engine 3195 (AB9452), which was in action harrowing. Others present included Burrell traction 3135 of 1909 (BJ6398), one of the Devonshire models and in the care for the last 36 years of Reg Stutley; John Brice's 1931 Ruston & Hornsby portable 163864 driving a stone crusher and Wallis traction 7683 of 1919 (BL795) owned by Ray Osborne and powering a threshing drum. The Thurlow rally in August attracted over twenty engines about half of which were products of East Anglia. These included six Burrells, four Garretts and a couple of Ransomes engines. A new firebox has recently been fitted to Brian Nevard's 1924 Garrett tractor 34539 (CF5488) and a new canopy was evident on Aveling roller 10126 of 1922 (FX8651) owned by Melvyn Camps. Two other engines at the event were old timers — Colin Piggott s 1891 Burrell agricultural 1522 (CF3579) was the oldest machine on display whilst also there was Cyril Philp's 1899 Clayton & Shuttleworth general purpose 32900 (HK9836). Southend Borough Council recently held its centenary celebration and part of this was a small steam rally along the sea front. Amongst those taking part were Arthur Bullman with his 1917 Sentinel standard wagon 1716 (AW3833); B. and D. Keeling with their two Burrell tractions, 2855 of 1906 (N01463) and 4063 (VW742) new in 1927; Ray Osborne's Wallis traction and Burrell traction 2147 of 1898 (BL4716) owned by Ashley Brown. A further engine was also present, but only after a hiccup and the burning of much midnight oil. Aveling roller 10994 of 1924 (WT 6042), owned by Roy Chapman and Ruth Atkinson, was steaming towards the venue on the Friday when several tubes started to leak. Luckily the crew found a suitable place to draw in, whereupon they telephoned their friends Geoff and Barry at Stoke Newington for a tube expander. This essential tool appeared very quickly and work went on until after midnight, and recommenced at dawn. The roller was eventually able to complete its journey and take part in the afternoon sea front parade. The two steam rollers mentioned in the last issue as being up for disposal from the Southend Council have both 36
found local buyers. The Bullmans have taken on the most interesting of the two machines, the Aveling compound convertible 5646 of 1904 IHJ1657), whilst the other engine, a class R8 slide valve single is now the property of Bruce Knights. Bruce has already stripped down parts of the roller and arrangements are in hand for shot blasting and priming to be undertaken. A list of requirements has been drawn up and contact made with David Parkin in Yorkshire, who has recently obtained a similar sized and aged roller from a Scunthorpe Park, with a view to mutual assistance. At the beginning of October a steam up took place at the John Barleycorn Inn at High Laver near Harlow, organised by Clive Constable and Alan Nash. Despite adverse weather conditions — it rained practically all day — there was a good die-hard from the response enthusiasts amongst us which made the day a success. Jim Stanley attended with his 1917 Aveling roller 8837, along with Jon Gorman's 1904 Fowell traction 93 (CE7894). David Forman's Burrell traction 3935 of 1922 (NK4450) had trouble getting out of Derek Spearman's rain soaked garden and perhaps would not have managed it at all without the assistance of the Fowell. Afterwards the lawn looked well ploughed up. A noggin 'n' natter session has been arranged at the John Barleycorn for the first Monday in every month; open to all, further details can be obtained from Alan Nash (170279 435107 evenings).
EMS&PARTRIDGE STOCKBRIDGE
Annual Spring Auction Sale Thruxton Circuit, near Andover, Hampshire
Saturday 8th May 1993 STEAM ENGINES VINTAGE TRACTORS STATIONARY ENGINES COMMERCIALS HORSE DRAWN and BARN MACHINERY SPARES — MANUALS FARM, TRADE & DOMESTIC BYGONES MODELS — WORKSHOP TOOLS Entry Details (catalogues (f4.00 in due course) and applications for inclusion in our comprehensive mailing list to: Evans & Partridge, Agriculture House, High Street, Stockbridge, Hampshire S020 6HF iz 0264 810702
GLOUCESTERSHIRE The 24th Fairford rally at Fairford Park in August was unfortunately a victim of the weather. The customary gathering at the Eight Bells public house on the Friday night attracted
Aveling & Porter 12 ton convertible roller 5646 of 1904 (AJ1657) shortly before its removal from the children's play area in Cluny Square, Southend, last autumn, for a brighter future in preservation, as reported in the Essex notes. (Pat Freeman) Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
local interest and a good sized crowd saw the Wharton's fine pair of engines, SUPREME and KING GEORGE VI, generating outside. The 89 key Marenghi organ owned by A. Reed was playing to entertain the gathering. Engines present at the event included Vince Hawkins' 1927 Marshall roller 82389 (U02835), out for its first season's rallying after a thorough restoration. This engine still retains its original firebox. Marshall agricultural 65908 of 1914 (BD5609) owned by D. West was there, as was S. West's 1912 Wallis & Steevens general purpose 7269 (N03343), which has subsequently been advertised for sale at an asking price of £30,000. A total of 45 engines were at the event which was a record for the Fairford rally: this augers well for the 1993 event, their Silver Jubilee show. Grand parades were possible on both days of the show and some interesting operations took place on the Sunday evening when engines were being 'assisted' out of the field, following incessant rain from lunchtime. Stonehouse rally, in early September, was half lucky with the weather as the Saturday was fine and sunny but Sunday turned out to be wet and miserable. Engine movements were restricted to the tarmac road leading to the rally field and engines included the Hawkins' Marshall roller, C.H. Hawkins' 1930 Aveling roller 14089 (YD973) and Richard Hesbrook's now unique Gibbons & Robinson traction 959 of 1891 (AY9874). A long distance visitor was Marshall agricultural 34022 of 1900 (TA2876) owned by Hedley and Tyrone James from Cornwall. Engines receiving attention in the area are John Plaister's Marshall agricultural 71837 of 1919 (DD 2007), which is stripped down to receive a new firebox; having similar treatment is Ruston Proctor traction 33471 of 1907 (EW2691) belonging to Mike Thexton.
GUERNSEY Although featured in the pages of Steaming some years ago, an Aveling roller in Guernsey was missed from the list of parked up machines given in our last issue. It is to be found in Cambridge Park, St Peter Port, delicately painted in pink, blue, turquoise and yellow, and appears to be well looked after, having recently received a new chimney and new motion side sheets. The engine, which was Guernsey Council No 8, is 11849 of 1927, a 10 ton E type. The 'Invicta' scroll is still in position on the forecarriage head and copper pipework to the pump is still STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Two views of Wallis & Steevens 6hp convertible traction 2149, over a hundred years old, being built in 1890. The engine made its rallyfield debut last year and is seen here at the Rushmoor event in July. (Robin Walker)
fitted as are the majority of the brass fittings, the scarifier etc. Our correspondent records that it was a pleasant surprise to come across this roller, for all other engine briefings on the island had turned out to be soil sterilizing boilers — portable type engines without cylinder blocks or motion work.
HAMPSHIRE In midsummer, in the Basingstoke area, David Fowler's Burrell tractor 3807 of 1919 (AH0563) was in
workshops, whilst Sentinel 5509 of 1924 (PD1701) was sheeted up outside). Elsewhere, F.J. Darnell's Wallis agricultural 2932 of 1907 (BL422) remains in his barn. In the Fordingbridge area, Tom Samson's Ruston Proctor portable 38982 of 1910 is still used occasionally; however, Coles' 1881 Clayton portable 18869 remains out of use. The end of September saw the end of season steam up at Derek and Sandra Marder's yard near Andover. 37
Over the last few years several issues of our magazine have carried reports of Ron Walker's problems in having a new cylinder block cast for his Burrell Gold Medal tractor 4072. Here we see the new block, successfully cast, machined and fitted up on the engine and under test in July 1992 at Bicknells boiler works at Liphook. (Peter Love)
Among their engines in steam were 1932 Fowler roller 19194 (13.18763); Wallis Advance roller 8086 of 1933 (CG4543) and 1918 Ruston Proctor tractor 52453 (OR8501). In addition, there were three portables in steam — Marshall 29101 of 1898, Marshall 89199 of 1942 and Robey 38403 of 1919. Some other unsteamable portables of rare types were also to be seen such as Derek's 1892 Robinson & Auden 1003; another unidentified example of the same make owned by Roger White and Bob Staunton's 1878 Brown & May 2700. Visiting engines included the late Alistair Mitchell's 12 ton Marshall roller 89549 (FRX129), new in 1944; Doug White's 1934 Sentinel S4 wagon 9075 (BEV467) and Clayton & Shuttleworth road loco 47216 of 1915 (CT4817) owned by Phil Johnson. Avid television viewing enthusiasts would have been rewarded in October with the BBC 1 Screen 1 presentation Loosing Track, which had a sequence shot at the Hollycombe Steam Collection's fairground. The engine being 'driven' (and the term is used loosely) by star Alan Bates, was Aveling general purpose engine 8653 of 1915 (KE6455) owned by Janet Rowlands. Whilst filming this particular sequence, so many re-takes had to be made of the star putting coal on the fire that it was in danger of spilling out of the firehole door onto the footplate. Its not recorded how long the engine kept up steam without
For further details contact
attention after the conclusion of the filming! Towards the end of the season, a welcome visitor to the Collection was Gerald Whittaker's Wallis traction 2149 of 1890 IBP9469). The engine was later driven on to the annual Northchapel drain out party.
HEREFORD and WORCESTER In the middle of the year, the unidentified Aveling tractor of about 1913 remained in the Pershore area but our correspondent indicates restoration on the engine seemed to have ceased. The engine is a roller conversion owned by R. Skinner although the details are not known. At the annual Steam and Vintage Engine rally near Bewdley, all three engines present were operating equipment. Ruston & Hornsby tractor 52766 of 1919 (AW4996), owned by Bill Griffiths, was driving a grinding mill; his brother Bob's Fowler traction 11421 of 1908 (NT 117) powered a sawbench, whilst Fowler traction 11699 of 1909 (AB9028), belonging to Neville Melhuish, drove a stone crusher. An engine reported as having come into the area and the ownership of staunch rollerman Alan Lloyd is Dan Shorey's Burrell showmans 3836 of 1920 (BH8020) STARLIGHT from the Oxfordshire area.
HERTFORDSHIRE John Carter's Steam Fair made its annual visit to St Albans at the beginning of August. This year Fowler showmans conversion 12905 of 1913 was present in addition to Savage swing boat engine 793 and the rebuilt Savage centre engine powering the gallopers; the Fowler made a number of trips around the city advertising the fair. In addition to visiting several more distant rallies, local engines attended the St. Albans carnival at the end of August and briefly, in pouring rain, a Falklands Day air show at the Hertfordshire Fairground site during September. It is also said that John Crawley's Foden wagon 12364 of 1926 (TW4207) was seen in the enemy camp at a Sentinel owners
We specialise in the construction and repair of locomotive type boilers. Firebox construction can be of the traditional flanged and rivetted design, or flanged and welded. Construction is to the appropriate British Standard Specification and all welding is by coded welders to BS 4870. Work being done is approved at all stages by an engineering surveyor from your boiler insurance company. Construction of tubeplates, smokeboxes, tenders etc, also undertaken.
Roger Pridham, Hollybank, Chilsworthy Beam, Gunnislake, Cornwall. Telephone Tavistock (0822) 615276
38
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
gathering at Toddington in early October; Stuart Gray's immaculate Sentinel Super 6327 of 1925 (NE4770) made a somewhat more legitimate appearance together with some more distant visitors. Tender riveting was in progress during the autumn at Friars Wash as work proceeded with the reconstruction of David Philpot's 1918 Clayton agricultural 48154 (NM 1161). Meanwhile, David's other engine, 1924 Marshall conversion 77876 (PU4053) remains one of the few local engines which can still regularly be seen travelling without the aid of a low loader. The former Essex County Council Aveling roller 8837 (N01221), once owned by David, continues to impress new owner, Jim Stanley. Briefly seen in the county whilst in transit by low loader after a holiday at the Garrett Museum at Leiston was the late Jim Hutchens' Garrett Suffolk Punch tractor 33180 of 1919 (BJ4483) THE JOKER.
KENT An engine recently noted for sale was 1923 Robey conversion 40991 (DS7819) owned by the Monday family. It has recently been a resident of the Chatham Dockyard Steam Centre. A roller to come into the area is 1927 Fowler 17234 IPP9257), previously owned by David Eves. This was entered in the auction at the Great Dorset Steam Fair but not sold. A subsequent deal has brought the roller into the ownership of John Easterbrook who also has 1922 Aveling roller 10190 (FX8654). Whether the Aveling will subsequently move on is not presently known.
LEICESTERSHIRE During the autumn an eagle eyed observer saw Fowler showmans 11108 of 1909 (YA92) DREADNOUGHT journeying north on the M1 near Kegworth, Leicestershire on a Yorkshire-based low loader, en route to a new owner in that area, having been earlier advertised for sale by Duncan Price in Worcestershire. Incidentally, this engine was the first showmans engine to attend Kegworth Carnival back in 1954, when owned by Eptons of New Bolingbroke. Mid August saw Foster showmans tractor 14066 of 1915 (FE1589) at Fred Dockray's yard for some minor repairs. It is owned by G.R. Dawson. John Robins, owner of Burrell traction 3126 of 1909 (8J7155), decided to give rallying activities a rest during 1992; another engine not seen out was Aveling roller 14129 of 1931 STEAMING Winter 1992/93
(WD2760) owned by Arthur Hendon. This machine is out of commission for the fitting of a new firebox and consequently Arthur gave his AvelingBarford roller AH392 of 1948 (CTL227) a couple of back end runs.
LINCOLNSHIRE Firstly, an apology. Robey traction 42675 is, in fact, owned by Richard Booty, not as printed in the last issue. As well as being relagged, the engine is now sporting a new stainless steel chimney. Aveling roller 8956 of 1918 (AY9690) owned by H. Gurnhill and H. Curry has been having a new firebox fitted. Two new arrivals at R.N. Crawford's premises at Frithville are Marshalls: traction 78085 of 1924 (E9624) and roller 88314 of 1937 (DV039). Both were rallied in the seventies, the traction when owned by Eddie Dowlman of Sloothby for a number of years, and Mr Grundy of Covenham travelled the roller around. The reason for the moves is the closure of the Marshall Museum at the works of Bentall Simplex, Scunthorpe. The collection was originally started by Marshalls at Gainsborough and some items were displayed at the Britannia works for a time. However, when Track Marshall and Marshall Tractors went into receivership in 1985, the wheeled tractor part of the business was purchased by the Scunthorpe company, who moved the museum exhibits to their premises. The museum has recently been purchased by Robert Crawford and as well as the two engines previously mentioned, the collection also included a Britannia boilered portable, Field Marshall tractors and a very rare Marshall oil engined Colonial traction engine. It has been pointed out that Aveling roller 9093 of 1920 (NK9344), which was mentioned at some length in the Yorkshire notes of the last issue, actually came from Central Park at Scunthorpe and not as stated. The other roller, 12257 of 1 928 (XU3509), was removed by the council from Everest Park, Ashby at the same time as 9093 came out of Central Park. 12257 is a piston valve roller and, as stated previously, remains in Scunthorpe in the ownership of Mr King, a scrap metal merchant who has declared an intention of restoring it — since he used to play on the roller as a child. It sits next to his yard at present, in much the same condition as when purchased. On the engine restoration front, Richard Marriott is making excellent progress with the renovation of his
Sentinel Super 6079 of 1925 (YL 2835) from a derelict condition. He now has a thoroughly rebuilt rolling chassis which has recently received its engine, again rebuilt to a very high standard. Richard purchased this lorry after the sale of his restored Frenchbuilt Pecard Freres vineyard type ploughing engine back to its country of origin some time ago. Neil Smith is making steady progress with his 1921 Marshall roller 74648 ISP6292). A new smokebox has been fitted and following the replacement of a number of stays, a hydraulic test was recently undertaken with successful results. This was the first time the boiler had had water in it for about 30 years! The Lincolnshire Steam and Vintage Rally on the County Showground in August was a bumper event. Attracting over 1200 entries there were on view plenty of engines constructed within the county, as well as other makes being well represented. Included in the engine line up were Steve Corston's 1916 Aveling roller 8679 (BT8812), Foden wagon 8304 of 1918 (BY7646) owned by David Gleave (a late resident of the Isle of Man whilst in his father's ownership) and Richard Booty's Robey traction. Saunders' Garrett 4CD showmans tractor 33566 of 1919 (AD9069) LITTLE BILLY came up from Hertfordshire, whilst Nick Le Count was visiting from Northamptonshire with 1928 Ruston & Hornsby roller 149813 (VF3186). Although there was a heavy downpour on the Saturday which put something of a damper on the day's proceedings, the rain held off on Sunday to make the rally another huge success. John Selby gave a threshing demonstration at the Normanby Hall Country Park in mid October using his Foster drum and 1925 Marshall traction 79441 (FU46771. This was in conjunction with the opening of a new wing of the farming museum on the site.
NORTHUMBERLAND An unfortunate incident occurred to the Walker School Project's Aveling-Barford roller and its road train when returning home from the Corbridge Rally along the A69. A car ran into the back of the 1890 water cart behind the living van and the roller. This caused severe damage to the water cart but fortunately none of the crew were hurt and the roller, AH363 of 1947 (CTL225), was undamaged. The living van had a large bright yellow warning sign on the back — but to no avail. The Northumberland Vintage 39
Hi9ftfanti Steamboat Holidays Cruise the beautiful senfochs and canals of Scotland in an original coal-fired Clyde Puffer. Good food, comfortable accommodation.
Tractor Club's annual rally had three engines in attendance. These were H. Wakefield's 1930 Foden tractor 13536 (RY9259), George Vardy's venerable Foster traction 2373 of 1899 (D02050) and Barry Stafford's 1929 Foden wagon 13476 (KX50031. The Foster appropriately drove a threshing drum of the same make. Finally, George Byerley, who used to have a very nice Fowler roller, has acquired a Marshall roller. Details of the engine are currently not to hand but it is believed to be the one which was auctioned at the Paisley Sale in 1980. The roller will arrive on the rally scene in 1993 with four wheels. NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
Send large SAE for free brochure to Rachel and Nick Walker, The Change House, Crinan Feny, Lochgdphead, Argyll PAM 8QH (Tel 054 65 232).
RARE TRACTION ENGINE PHOTOGRAPHS Available for the first time... The photographic collections of the late Bert H.J. Barker (former Secretary of the British Fairground Society) and the late Monty M.D. Thackray (former owner of Showman's Engine EVENING STAR and others) have now been catalogued and top quality black and white reprints are available. Wherever possible engine numbers and owners have been identified and dates and locations specified. The collection is divided into the following sections: Showmans Engines; General Purpose and Road Locomotives; Ploughing and Agricultural Engines; Steam Tractors; Steam Wagons; Steam Rollers and a brief section on 'Mishaps'. All photographs relate to the period 1890-1967 and include many working examples. For a detailed catalogue please send a large stamped (24p) addressed envelope to:
Mrs Thackray (ISC), 45 The Street, Aylmerton, Norwich NR11 8AA
co
roillEF T44DiskAAT -•
fir 'Big Toys for the Big Boys'
!,\
Steam Models a Speciality
Good quality collectors' toys, models, and other interesting items of Nostalgia THE SOUTH STREET TRADING COMPANY 31-32 South Street, Riddings, Derbyshire 0E55 4EJ Telephone: 0773 541527
40
WE BUY, WE SELL WE EXCHANGE
It is now something like five years since Brian Wright last gave his Wallis roller 7539 of 1917 (3E9360) an airing. This was remedied when the roller was present at the Great Dorset Steam Fair at the end of August. Three other Nottinghamshire Wallis rollers were also present at the Dorset event, these being the Advances belonging to the Anderson family (7869 of 19261 and to Mick Farmer (8058 of 19301, and Mick Baines' older, conventional 10 ton model, 2524 of 1900 (BP8585). Robert Tyler's 1928 Fowler T3 tractor 16365 (YC3689) is having a new smokebox fitted — ready for a big event in early January 1993. OXFORDSHIRE Thames Valley TE Club's president Arthur Napper held his annual President's Party at Appleford at the end of September. Arthur's three engines were there — 1931 Burrell road loco 4093 (DV9252) DOROTHY; Wallis tractor 2811 of 1905 (AD7460) looking very smart in its new paint work and, of course, the famous Marshall, 37690 of 1902 (BH7373) OLD TIMER. Visiting engines on this occasion included Noel Greenaway's 1921 Burrell traction 3917 (TA2374) and Robin's Foden wagon 12018 (EU2683) built in 1925. Two steam rollers which had turned out for the occasion were Bob Staunton's 1913 Aveling 8116 (TA24351, which always looks very much in a working condition, together with Ralph Fear's Fowler with complete tar spraying gear, 17506 of 1928 (UA3582). An engine noted for sale in the area was 1925 Foster traction 14568 (NT7184) MATILDA, owned by Jeff Shackell. It has now been sold to Richard Willcox in Gloucestershire and Jeff now has something more pretty to play with in the shape of Ted Gale's 1913 Burrell showmans tractor 3497 (H059931 MAY QUEEN. Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
Last year saw the return to southern rally fields, following a nicely authentic restoration, of Wallis & Steevens 4hp Oilbath tractor 7641 of 1920. The engine, now named GUNNER, after the Wallis firm's one time test and delivery driver, was pictured by John Maund working in the threshing demonstration area at the Great Dorset Steam Fair.
event. At an auction at Shifnal in August, Marshall portable 41782 of 1904 was sold. It is understood a previous owner of this was D. Brookes-Williams, but the present owner is not known.
SCOTLAND
SOMERSET
An interesting engine has been noted for sale in the Falkirk area. Fowler 16948 of 1927 (J13913) is now referred to as a Hercules tractor — a type which is somewhat rare. For many years the engine was in roller guise, latterly belonging to W.J. Farrell of Warrenpoint, Co Down, Northern Ireland. It has recently been restored to its original tractor form and was offered by owner Fred Forrest in a re-tubed condition, with a clean boiler certificate up to 200 lbs. With some sadness we record the death of Freddy Forrest senior last year. As a result, a number of the engines resident at Bonnybridge have been, or will be, disposed of. As well as the Fowler just mentioned, Aveling roller 7307 of 1911 (M067) has now gone to Peter Kerr in Fife and Fowler roller 16400 of 1925 (ES7419) — a former Scottish machine — is now owned by Tulloch Ltd of Nairn, making it a good contender for the northernSTEAMING Winter 1992/93
most preserved engine. Another roller to change hands recently is Jock McKay's Fowler 16437 of 1925 (ES7547), which has been sold to Andrew Cook and son, and so remains in Scotland.
SHROPSHIRE Along with many other similar events staged over the August bank holiday weekend, the County of Salop event suffered from bad weather. Very few exhibits were actually able to get about and the only engine to be found in its correct place on the engine line was Mike and Nerys Jones' 1915 Marshall tractor 68754 (CH2462) which, still part restored, was towed into position before the going got too bad. Frank Lythgoe was, as usual, present in force but most of the engines remained alongside the driveway's hard standing at the top of Walcot Park, thus ensuring they were able to get away from the site without undue problem at the close of the
Early August saw the usual huge show which the Yeovil Festival of Transport has now become. The steam section comprised thirteen engines which included Phil Upshall's 1910 Aveling conversion 7056 (MD4517), George Hawkins' 1937 Sentinel S4 wagon 9307 (DYY134) and Kelston Sparkes' 1923 Foden wagon 10694 (PC9928). Another Foden was 13752 of 1930 (MW8324) owned by Jess Walrond, whilst George Train's 1917 Ruston Proctor traction 51737 (EB8164) was also in attendance.
STAFFORDSHIRE Andrew Hall's long rebuild of Aveling roller 12081 of 1929 (RF5715) is coming to an end. After a lot of hard work, the machine is in one piece again (well, almost) and has been in steam at Klondyke Mill. The new boiler passed its steam test satisfactorily and is showing surprisingly 41
its first trip to a rally field for some twenty-seven years. Owner Ian Wright can be justifiably proud of his achievement in the reassembly of this somewhat different machine. Klondyke celebrated the end of the season with their usual Saturday evening Grande Illuminated Event. There were several visiting engines including Alan Williamson's Sentinel S4 wagon 8884 of 1933 ITJ3319), Nigel Else's 1927 Wallis Advance roller 7943 (0T6007) and David Cope's delightful Fowler tractor 14805 of 1920 (UG1496). Adding to these were the resident engines, and Peter Knight's 1926 Marshall roller 81427 (PY6079) also was unsheeted for the occasion, together with cars, commercials, tractors and a good turn out of stationary engines, all lit by Tilley lamps, oil lamps, flares and even candles in jam jars. A good evening was certainly had by all.
SUFFOLK Wallis & Steevens 7hp cylinder traction engine 7769 of 1923 only visits one or two events each year; Peter Love came across the engine, a one-time member of Thomas Wood & Sons fleet at Crockenhill, Kent, as it was returning home and turned off the A21 towards Battle, Sussex.
few fizzes and leaks considering the amount of surgery which has been performed. Fred Dockray's boiler work has proved very satisfactory and both Andrew and he are very pleased with the results. One to two forays down the road have revealed some overtight bearings etc but that is only to be expected. Creaks and groans have been noted from the piston valve chest and cylinder area (did you leave one of the little people in there, Andrew?) and so this aspect and the lubrication is to be checked out during the winter . The steam engine ranks at Klondyke have been swelled by the influx of no less than three rollers. Peter Jacob's Aveling 12342 of 1929 (UT4405) is wintering at the museum whilst permanent residence has been assumed by Les Wright's well restored Aveling 8672 of 1915 (HJ1732) MONARCH. Les is determined, despite contrary advice proferred by all and sundry, to turn his roller out in Aveling green with full lining and deep India red forks. At present it appears in a somewhat different (for Avelings) smart maroon livery but Les stands determined and the roller is currently undergoing a partial strip down to achieve the required sartorial transformation. The third welcome addition to the Mill fleet is the old and interesting Fowler roller rebuilt by Aliens of 42
Oxford and recently acquired as a kit of parts by Ian Wright. This is 8111 of 1898 (BW4798) and has been rebuilt and steamed a few times during the summer to check it over. It is now in the workshop for a number of mechanical jobs to be attended to, including refurbishment of the crankshaft and re-bushing of the flywheel. The Aveling roller 8316 of 1914 (E5335), owned by the North Staffs & Cheshire club, is to have a new smokebox fitted during the winter, the old one having become thin and worn, allowing the saddle to move slightly when travelling. The other engine owned by the Club, Burrell traction 2706 of 1904 (TB2845), is also scheduled for further attention this winter. Custodian Des Hutton has sorted out a lot of the bits and pieces and has had several of the necessary parts made. The new tubeplate is now fitted and retubing is the next anticipated task. The club's Aveling roller, Les Wright's and Phil Jeffs' 1931 Fowler roller 18507 (SM8832) all attended the Palmer Moor rally earlier in the summer. Roy Tideswell's 1914 Tasker tractor 1625 (BP5833) was also present as was Geoff Limb's 1896 Burrell traction 1941 (YA5799). Ian Wright's Fowler/Allen roller also made an appearance at this event, it being
The East Anglian Transport Museum's 1924 Armstrong Whitworth roller 10R22 (DX4602) has been delivered to Mervyn Mayes' yard at Yaxham for a new firebox to be fitted. She ran the 1992 season on reduced pressure of 150 lbs instead of the
The latest 'STEAMY' video from MOONLIGHT PRODUCTIONS £15.00 post free from 14 ARRAN AVE, SALE, CHESHIRE M33 3NQ Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
designed 180 lbs. If funds permit, it is hoped to give some attention to the steam chest because the engine has been very heavy on coal and water, needing a proverbial coal mine in one side of the road and a lake on the other. As an illustration of this gigantic fuel consumption, returning in September from Henham rally to Lowestoft with living van and water cart in tow and running on reduced pressure, the roller consumed an average of 30 gallons of water to the mile with a coal consumption of three miles per hundredweight. Normally standing adjacent to the Armstrong Whitworth roller in the museum is Roger Goulby's Aveling roller 11648 of 1926' (RT2474). This has been out of action for the whole season due to the prolonged job of having the crankshaft straightened. Whilst this essential part of the roller was away, work was progressed in the fitting of a recently acquired Morrison scarifier. This has now been completed, with the addition of suitable strengthening plating, and in the near future, a new Aveling pattern short length canopy should be fitted, followed by a repaint in black, with lining out.
SURREY Fifteen engines were present at a very wet Egham rally at the end of August. It was wet on two counts, firstly the all embracing weather and secondly due to a burst water main which ruptured a day or two prior to the event and partially flooded the site. The steam show, staged as part of the Egham and Thorpe Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Association's event, was organised as usual by Ivan Fear. Exhibits included Peter Barker's 1913 Burrell tractor 3458 (AB8795) DEFIANCE; another similar machine, Burrell 3545 of 1914 (AH0173) owned by Arthur Mills and an Aveling roller, 10175 of 1921 (N02142) belonging to the Museum of London. This latter had an old Marshall portable, 6158 of 1878, in tow. Owned by the White family, this interesting engine was brought back from Switzerland some ten years ago, having been sent out when new. An outstanding exhibit, much admired, was the now unique Sentinel S8 wagon 9105 of 1934 (UJ3652), owned by B. Richmond-Dodd. Another successful event was held in the summer at Robins Cook Farm, Redhill. Thirteen engines attended including Dave Corbin's Clayton & Shuttleworth showmans style road loco 48656 of 1920 (AF3573) OLD ENGLAND; a visitor from Scotland — STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Belieing its presence on a public rally field Burrell 7hp single 4051 of 1926 stands belted to a sawbench in the working area at Weeting Rally, June 1992. (Roger Newberyl
Sandy Steele's 1901 Fowler showmans style 9177 (AD8930) DAWN OF THE CENTURY, and Jon Wheeler's Aveling-Barford roller AC 606 (DTM538), new in 1937. Also there was Richard Pierce's finely restored Fowler ploughing engine 3195 of 1877 and Peter Haining's Garrett road loco 27946 of 1909 (0168181 VERA.
SUSSEX There was only one engine involved in a working demonstration at the annual Northchapel drain out party in the autumn and that was Mick Smith's 1918 Ransomes traction 27277 (DS7473), driving a saw bench. Two Garrett tractors provided light, both being showmans style machines — Tony I larman's 33374 of 1918 (CE8250) and the Hollycombe Collection's 33348 (SZ100) of the same year. Gerald Whittaker's 1890 Wallis traction 2149 (BP9469) was roaded over from Hollycombe to the event and joined Charlie Russell's engines there. These were Marshall traction 14421 of 1886 (BP9045) and 1926 Foden timber tractor 12370 (TT8659). Two other engines also roaded to the event were Lugg's Burrell agricultural 4048 of 1926 (PW8905) and Aveling roller 14179 of 1934 (BKX861) owned by George Freemantle. This latter was the first of several built by Aveling-Barford Ltd after the amalgamation of the two constituent companies, Aveling & Porter and Barford & Perkins.
WALES Camrose Working Vintage Show near Haverfordwest on August bank holiday Saturday had four steam engines present. Jeff James showed his 1909 Foster traction 12394 (BE7638) which has been restored to a very high standard and this attracted much attention. Also present was Paul Robinson's Aveling roller 6b/3 of 1908 (CA6333), in very good original condition. The Mason brothers Ransomes compound traction 42032 of 1931 (H12816), in its usual immaculate condition, was also in attendance as was the oldest surviving Foster portable, 201 of 1870, exhibited by Rees brothers of Llanrhian. This engine had not been steamed for some ten years whilst the brothers concentrated on the restoration of 1899 Marshall agricultural 31022 (DE2506). The portable was restored in 1975, when a new firebox was made; it was fitted with a second flywheel during its working days and can be run at a speed as low as 5 1/2 rpm.
WARWICKSHIRE It was coincidental that concurrent with the distribution of the last Steaming, which contained references to parked up rollers and in particular the one in Victoria Park, Leamington Spa, that Warwick District Council should take a decision to dispose of their charge. Aveling 10905 of 1924 (NX6366), an 8 ton 43
piston valve single, was much robbed and in very poor condition even ten years ago. The council were also custodians of an ex BR diesel shunting locomotive, and a small AvelingBarford type GB footpath roller located in the St John's play area in Kenilworth. The timetable for disposal and the method (probably by tender) are not known to us but the Council can be contacted on 0926 - 450000 Ext 2228 (Mr M. Ranieri) should any member wish to register an interest in the steam roller.
Two pictures of Burrell 3829, taken almost 40 years apart. The engine made a welcome re-appearance on the rally fields in 1992, and is seen in the above illustration (Eric Sawford) on the high slopes at the Great Dorset Steam Fair in September, complete with crane jib and wearing muddy spuds as evidence of the less than perfect ground conditions. The 6hp compound was new in March 1920 to T. & W.J. Hooper of Liskeard, Cornwall as a crane locomotive but without a jib; it must have been returned to Thetford quite quickly however, for in October the same year the machine was resold to J. Hickey & Sons of Richmond and later named HIS MAJESTY. The engine engaged in much heavy haulage work around London over the following 30 years and the picture opposite (courtesy The Robey Trust) shows it during the 1950s, about the time it finished commercial work, in commendably smart condition.
WEST MIDLANDS
this mill actually was completed on site on the Saturday morning of the show. Phil also exhibited an unrestored mill, which was lifted off his trailer by the Fowler crane engine owned by Len Crane, and was made to run, despite its decrepitude. It was driven by the Morrell brothers' Ruston & Hornsby agricultural 169167 of 1933 (TL5452) TREVITHICK, looked after by Alan Mountford. The coal at this event was superb — for the second year in succession, and apparently from the same source (or should that be seam?). It was supplied by Fern Fuels (IT 0639
Early August saw the annual Dudley Show being staged at Himley Hall and this was attended by a selection of engines, both full size and miniature. An interesting newcomer was 1902 Garrett traction 23992 (CF3473) owned by S.E. Davies, whilst Burrell agricultural 2051 of 1897 (CF3638), owned by Alan Robins, was also there, looking tidy as always. Lyndon Shearman's venerable 1860s Brown & May portable was again working for a living, driving a corn mill brought along by Phil Wilson, 1991's brave diver. Reassembly of 44
750389) which is a bit of free advertising but quite justified for when put on the fire, the coal swelled up into 'cauliflower heads' and on the Sunday, the Brown & May ran for six hours, including lighting-up and running the mill, on just one half hundredweight bag. It was certainly a coal apart from some of the rubbish rally organisers at other events have provided this season. One other engine at Dudley, a bit of a surprise, was Birmingham Science Museum's 1927 Burrell tractor 4084 (FK3564) BUSY BEE. It was extremely nice to see the engine out and about. Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
YORKSHIRE in August, the 24th Trans Pennine Run took place from Lancashire across the backbone of England to finish, as usual, on Harrogate Stray. There were three steam vehicles at the conclusion of the run in Harrogate; Tony Hunt's Burrell 3849 of 1921 (TA905) MARSHAL FOCH joining the cavalcade just outside the town. John Heselwood's Aveling tractor 9081 of 1919 (KN5785) undertook the full run and the programme advised readers the engine was the original Royal School of Mines mascot, CLEMENTINE. It also completed the 1991 event, consuming 6 cwt of coal and 300 gallons of water in the process. The other entrant was Brian Kellett's Sentinel DG4 wagon 8009. The run passed close by the yard where Steve Denton is working on his recent acquisition, Fowler T3A roller 19190 of 1933. The machine, when new, was exported to Portugal through agents Monteiro Gomes Limitada, Rua Cascaes 47, Lisbon, for Camara Municipal (city council), Santarem, and the roller still bears the latter's nameplates. Recent mention in our Around the World columns of two STEAMING Winter 1992/93
German rollers found at Santarem led Steve to wonder whether any member might have photographs of his roller in Portugal and if it shared the same yard with the Henschel and the Zettelmeyer at one time. Restoration of the Fowler is proceeding well and painting has started with Fowler purple brown livery being applied. A couple of Fowler engines appeared on the Racecourse at York at the conclusion of the York Historic Vehicle Run in mid September. These were Martin Robinson's 1925 roller 16436 (SA84391 and, looking very smart, an engine not seen out in Yorkshire before, 17470 of 1928 (PX9047), which Graham Whitwell as just converted from roller to tractor. It has subsequently been offered for sale. Another engine on the market has been Richard Gillam's very presentable Burrell single crank compound traction 3201 of 1910 (BP5919) ACHILLES. The eighth Hunton Steam Gathering took place in mid September and attracted the usual small collection of steam engines including Graham Whitwell's conversion and another similar but larger machine, David
Webster's Fowler 16289 of 1924 (NL8292). Two rollers present were Stan Whitfield's 1926 Marshall 81119 (SF5348) and Aveling 10575 of 1923 (PR280) owned by Bob Baker from Co Durham. Harry Lyon's 1900 Robinson & Auden traction 1376 (AD8889) drove a saw bench. An Aveling roller recently arrived in Harry's yard from Scotland, acquired by two new enthusiasts. No further details are currently to hand. There have been several other newcomers to the county, perhaps the
M.& A. RUBBER Specialist in Solid Rubber Covering All forms of Rollers, Steam Traction Engine Wheels and Rubber Drives etc Please phone for FREE QUOTATION a 0909 482235 ANYTIME 45
most noteable being Fowler showmans 11108 of 1909 (YA92) DREADNOUGHT, which has been acquired by Robin Knox. This engine was constructed as a road loco and three years later was overhauled by Fowlers who then sold it and the parts to make it suitable for showmans use to West Country showland firm W. Cole of Bristol. It came to Yorkshire from the Worcestershire area just in time to appear at a late autumn steam up at the Squinting Cat public house, Lund House Green, Harrogate in company with John Bolton and Ian Jackson's 1923 Fowler roller 15851 (NX3974) — the one which on occasions thinks it is a showmans roller. But it can't compete with this new local. It was a cold weekend at the end of October and crews had to scrape the snow off the top of the kindling before lighting up on the Sunday morning. Another newcomer to the area is Garrett roller 28408 of 1910 (A06201) which has been purchased by Richard Hullah from Tony Chalmers of Carnforth. Richard also owns the venerable Aveling roller 2481 of 1889 ICE91871. Very soon after being brought to its new home, the Garrett was in steam and being driven around the yard to assess the repairs and refurbishment necessary. Also arrived in Yorkshire, at John Smith's Dalton premises, is the Burrell showmans 3909 of 1922 (NR965) WINSTON CHURCHILL. This has been acquired from Hardwicks of Ewell by Tom Nicholson, a Scammell owner, along with a fair organ and is presently due for a new firebox before taking to the rally circuit again. Stan Houseman's 1911 Clayton traction 43187 (AH5473) is also at Dalton for a retube, and a further unusual engine to turn up is Billy Treloar's Fowler Anglo Australian Colonial engine 10776 of 1907, which is having some major renovation work done. This machine has been in the 'pending pile' for a long time and it is good to learn that progress is now being made. An engine which has been in the same situation in the Leeds area for over ten years was recently surprised by having its tubes and other long possessed parts removed by owners Eric Robinson and John Knapton. After slumbering for so long, Wallis Advance roller 7941 of 1927 (DN2005) is having foundation rivets removed as a prelude to receiving a new firebox. The machine was supplied new to the City of York, and obtained from later owners Glossops at Osbaldwick by Eric and John Day in the late 1960s. Fowler roller 15981 of 1923, 46
reported in the last issue as a repatriation from Sri Lanka to the Barnsley area, is now owned by Les Donn and is stripped down at Wortley Forge near Sheffield for major boiler work to be undertaken. The engine must have been run on some peculiar water, for it has eaten away considerable quantities of the internal plates and, judging by the amount of scale etc removed from the water space prior to stripping down, it has been well neglected in the past.
SENTINEL DRIVERS CLUB The Club's fourth annual Noggin and Natter day was held in early October at the Fancott Arms, Toddington near Luton. After a week of inter-
mittent rain, the day dawned bright with an easterly wind. Six wagons made their way to the venue from various places, of which one was John Crawley's Foden (but he also has a Sentinel in the family — so that made it alright). The five Shrewsbury products taking part were Barry Weatherhead's 1925 Super 5256 (KC5071); Ian Woollett's prototype SD4 8448 of 1930 (UX8724); S4 9075 of 1934 (BEV467) owned by Douglas and Elizabeth White, who had steamed all the way from Portsmouth; Stuart Gray's 1925 Super 6327 (NE4770) and Barry Cousins' 1934 S4 model 9016 (HV3865). It was pleasing to see so many wagons either in their original livery or in the colours of an owner who once ran a similar model and this approach to restoration, to make things as historically correct as possible, is to be commended.
Letters A final word Like Joe Thomas, in his letter in the Autumn 1992 issue, I have noted with interest the recent correspondence, fuelled by Ken Judkins, concerning the respective merits of Foden and Sentinel steam wagons. As there exists in preservation a fair selection of both makers products, perhaps the issue might be resolved if someone could organise a competitive road run with each entrant allowed a measured amount of coal and running over a set route. If this could also be filmed the matter would not only be resolved once and for all, hopefully, but would also result in an entertaining video which I am sure would be of interest to all Trust members. J. Lloyd
Ilford, Essex
(It would indeed be interesting to have comparative trials between the only two lastingly successful designs of steam wagon. Such tests, arranged on the lines of road tests featured in the commercial vehicle press of the 1920s and 30s, would need a good deal of research into the methods
used, and even then present day insurance and taxation problems would probably make it necessary to have access to a private track or circuit if tests were to be realistically carried out with a loaded vehicle. But perhaps someone is already working on the idea. — Hon. Editor)
Burrell 2576 I was interested to see the photograph and description of Burrell 2576 of 1903 on page 81 of the Spring 1992 issue, for my father briefly worked with the engine for Blunts about 1928-29, and might have been the last driver to use the engine on road haulage before it passed to showland. The 8hp machine was at the time the only heavy haulage engine in south east Kent capable of hauling three trucks and my father's job was hauling granite stones from the docks at Dover to a rural area about three miles out of town — all the stone was fork loaded and unloaded by hand, quite a back breaking job. The old Burrell was kept in steam for about six weeks, by the end of that time badly needing a washout and its usual weekly maintenance. Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
The Chatham Steam Restoration Company The Steam Centre, Slip 6, Historic Dockyard Chatham, Kent ME4 4TE Telephone 0634 826555 or 726377
BOILER MAKERS and STEAM RESTORATION ENGINEERS New boilers — welded or riveted Repairs to any type of boiler Welding to ASME 9 Full machining service Models built — model boilers in copper or steel Canopies built in wood or steel We can supply stays, rivets, bolts, nuts, etc Tenders, smokeboxes, fireboxes, tubeplates, chimneys, firebars and castings all made to order NEW — small works department for those silly little jobs you have Traditional flanged and riveted firebox recently completed for an Aveling & Porter 10 ton roller. (M. Staniforthl
I've no knowledge of what happened to the engine after it returned to Blunt's yard, because my father was only loaned out by his employer for the Dover contract, as Blunt had no driver available at the time. F.J. Finn
Orpington, Kent
Puzzle plate I noticed David Gower's appeal to readers in the Autumn issue as to the reason for the 'working position' plate in the tender of McLaren 919 in New Zealand. Being an old engine driver, for what it's worth, I offer the following, though I've never seen such a reference on an engine. Does the instruction refer to the link motion which is to be down in the working position when the engine is on the belt etc? Jack Aldrich
Louth, Lincolnshire
Marshall queries I wonder if there are any older
Steaming readers, particularly in the north west Devon or north Cornwall area, who may be able to recall seeing a 7hp(?) Marshall single traction
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
engine standing in the goods yard at Bude railway station in the summer of 1955. It bore the makers number 66160 and, probably, an MA (Cheshire) registration number. A photograph of the machine appeared on the Postbag page of the Model Engineer for 29th September 1955, but too small for the registration to be read. Research on past Marshall engines in the Dorchester area may indicate this particular machine (built in August 1914) was the one owned by A.P. Goddard & Sons of Forston Grange near Dorchester and pur chased by them via local agents Lott & Walne in the early 1920s. They kept it until around 1950 when it was disposed of along with 6hp single Marshall 74489 (FX8007). This engine, happily, still exists and now in Dutch ownership. Both Marshalls are understood to have gone to the Torrington area of Devon at that time and certainly 74489 went into preservation from the village of Black Torrington. If anyone can confirm that 66160 was in fact the engine at Bude station, the writer, Mr Goddard and several other interested Marshall owners would much like to hear. Still on Marshalls: in our Winter 1991/92 issue Norman Bashford was
asking on the Letters pages if anyone could identify his wooden-wheeled portable. I recently came across some old notes made on an engine hunting trip to north Devon in the late 1960s, and I have a wooden wheeled 6hp single Marshall portable down as seen at Hatherleigh with the maker's number 32415 attributed to it and a reference to it being used in a quarry at Muddiford, north of Barnstaple, This information must have been obtained at a later date, but it does seem to fit the engine that Norman is restoring and may well be worth checking out further, if possible. Tony Coombes
Blandford, Dorset
Garrett Locomobiles In the latest issue of Steaming (page 198) I was most interested to read the notes under the Cumbria heading, concerning the Staveley Wood Turning Company. During the last war a few hours off duty allowed me an opportunity to visit the area of Hawkshead to the west of Windermere lake. Here was noted an open air sawmill, powered by a portable engine, and at the time in steam and in charge of a schoolboy or teenager. Some years later, and in 47
A fine posed study at the Cadbury Brothers Ltd cocoa and chocolate manufacturing business at Bournville, near Birmingham. The factory and its surrounding village were built by the brothers from 1879 on a rural site some six miles south west of the midlands city. The Bournville Village Trust administered a model village which was well known for its pioneering role in housing reform, and the background buildings in our picture show a similar quality of attention to materials and detail even though they are for utilitarian and industrial use. The main subject however is a Thornycroft steam van, backed up to the despatch bay ready to be loaded through its side hung rear doors with an assorted delivery of cardboard boxes, many lettered 'Cadbury Chocolate Drops'. The cast, domed, aluminium works plate on the front apron reveals the 3 ton wagon to be works number 38, with the date 1900, though Alan Duke's records show a delivery date of 24th June 1901. The photograph is thought to have been taken in 1904 — at that time legislation required the vehicle to have carried a registration number but none is evident on the picture and none is revealed from licencing records; the wagon was advertised for sale by Cadburys in 1910. One wonders on the livery of the Thorn ycroft — the black lining edged with a whitish line each side doesn't show up too well on the base colour, so we might assume a darkish hue. Cadbury's later fleet of shunting locomotives (note the railway tracks in the foreground) were painted, not surprisingly, in a dark chocolate colour. Whatever the colour, the driver, patiently posed with hand on the wagon's brake lever, was no doubt very proud of his steam wagon on its forays around the Birmingham streets. (courtesy Cadbury Ltd per M.A. Poole)
standard fittings, and I remember that some kind of hammer mill was used to pulverise the wood before delivery to the fire chamber by blower. I was told that it was possible to further reduce the size of the wood particles if required. This had the effect of producing an exceptionally fast steaming rate. Both engines were driving electrical generators by flat belt, and by this means they powered the whole of the rather large works. I do not now remember the sizes of the two engines, but one was considerably larger than the other. A number of other Locomobiles were used by Devon County Council to power stone crushing plants in various quarries around that county, and one of the last to have been used was at Brayford in the South Molton area. This did not have the combustion chamber, but had its circular firebox used in the more conventional manner. Dennis Chappell
more leisurely times, a return visit was made. Then the owner was contacted and an interesting chat resulted. The inevitable question arose, "Can you tell me where there is more steam in the area?" The reply was that I should visit the Staveley Wood Turning Company who powered their works by steam. I regret the lack of more detail in the above, but the passage of 45 years or so does rather dim the memory. 48
At Staveley I saw two Garrett Locomobiles hard at work — the place had more of the air of a power station than of two portable engines at work. This type of engine was Garrett's final development of their portables, and they were highly efficient machines with superheaters and feed water heaters. Other details noted were as described in the Cumbria section notes. The firebrick lined combustion chambers did not appear to have been
Wellington, Somerset
A Garrett's hind wheels I see the question posed, in the Hertfordshire notes in the last issue, on the later pattern rear wheels now fitted to Garrett 4CD tractor 31193. Perhaps I can put owner Keith Honour's mind at rest. When I purchased 31193 from the late Mr Corfield of Abermule, Powys, it Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
had been converted from a tractor to a roller and fitted with 'cotton reel' steering — the chains from the front roll chain sweeps wound onto or off rolls like cotton reels which were mounted either end of a transverse shaft extending each side of the engine in front of the firebox. Also the original smokebox was in very poor condition and the front of the boiler had a tar drum underneath it for support, as the front end had been removed. The engine had a half cab and, of course, roller wheels at the rear. Later I was able to buy from Messrs Harkness at Belfast the Garrett road loco 27946 VERA and I also had the chance to purchase all their available Garrett spares from three tractors they had scrapped earlier — about 10 tons worth in all. Amongst these bits and pieces were a pair of the later type wheels for pressed on rubbers, so I used these on the rebuild of 31193. In using them I had to reverse the braking gear and fit new blocks as these wheels had an angleiron ring fastened to the spokes for braking purposes instead of using the inside rim of the wheels. The wheels had larger hubs and the hub caps fitted inside a recess. The tender height was the same each side so I cut out a section so the driver could walk to the driving position and not have to put his leg over the side of the tender, During the rebuild I had the rear axle boxes remetalled, fitted a new chimney, smokebox and dynamo bracket, retubed the boiler, fitted a new cab and put rubber tyres on all round. Les Lambe
Bromsgrove, Worcestershire
Purrey steam wagons I was very interested in Derek Hayner's article on Purrey steam wagons in the last issue of the magazine. Some ten years ago I went to a local farm sale near Wadebridge, Cornwall. The farm was somewhat primitive, to say the least; the one large room above the cow-house which was the living quarters had no electric or water facilities. The property had been in the same family for years and when the last brother died, all was sold up. My surprise was at the bottom of a large box of bits and pieces. An old envelope contained specification sheets, sales brochure and accompanying letter, all, apparently, the result of the North Cornwall Ice & Cold Storage Co Ltd of Molesworth Street, STEAMING Winter 1992/93
J.E. Corfield's yard at Abermule, Montgomeryshire, was base for a relatively large fleet of working rollers through the 1950s and even later. Most subsequently passed into preservation; these two pictures, taken by Geoff Hayes in April 1960, show Garrett 4CD tractors converted to rollers for the later stages of their working lives — 33373 of 1918 (top) is probably awaiting another job which never materialised, whilst 31193 of 1913 (below) shows evidence of being canibalised to keep something else at work, its headstock having been removed, Both engines ate now rallied as tractors — 33373 from Dorset and 31193 (with showmans fittings) from Hertfords hire. The later experiences of the latter machine are described by Les Lambe in his letter on this page.
Wadebridge having made enquiries ice company never did purchase any about a Purrey steam lorry. Just how steam wagon. The factory in Wadethe paperwork managed to survive all bridge was later turned into a that time — or come to be at the farm warehouse and still exists. — I shall never know. I have made numerous enquiries but it seems the John Boyling Wadebridge, Cornwall 49
16in length of 4in x Y2 in metal applied to a wheel with a couple of substantial G cramps bent more easily than I anticipated and I therefore see no problems in bedding the plate — with rubber on — down to the wheel and tack welding into position. The next stage is to fit an engine with rubber strakes, which will, hopefully, be done early this year. I would be pleased to hear from any more interested parties. D.A. Davies
9 Churchill Road, Tavistock, Devon PL 19 9BU tr 0822 615960
Your driving licence
Aveling & Porter ploughing engine 8799 photographed at Summerhill, Co Meath, Eire by Kevin McGivern, presumably at a working location. Note the governors. (collection G. Doherty)
Steam ploughing in Ireland Further to the mention in the Autumn issue of ploughing engines in Ireland (page 200/201), I now have further notes, courtesy Bill Smith, records officer of the Steam Plough Club, and Alan Duke. The engines which eventually reached Ireland were Aveling & Porter 8798/8799. They were a pair of the makers compound cylindered engines, 7 1/2 in and 12% in diameter, and equivalent to Fowlers 18hp AA7 class. They were new in February 1917 to the Eddison Steam Rolling Co and when that company finished the ploughing side of their business, the tackle was sold at auction on 27th March 1919. Most of the engines, including the Aveling pair, were bought by a group of farmers who formed the Dorset Steam Ploughing Co Ltd in the April. This firm in turn sold up at auction in March 1934 and the Avelings (by then registered FX6813/6814) were acquired by Robert H. Styles of Boxley in Kent. It was from there that they went to Ireland and the ownership of James J. Parkinson of The Curragh, Co Kildare. The pair were split up sometime after 1945; 8798 was subsequently with O'Dea & Co Ltd of Dublin and 8799 with Naas Saw Mills, Co Kildare. The photograph referred to in the last issue was of 8799 and it was taken at Summerhill, Co Meath but who owned the engine at the time and when it was taken is not known, and neither, 50
unfortunately, is it clear what work the engines had done in Ireland. 8799 is said to have gone to one Murphy for scrap. Gerry Doherty
Dundalk, Eire
Rubber strakes My article on rubber strakes in the last issue resulted in many letters and phone calls and I am pleased to have had such positive response. Everyone was interested in the profile in Fig.2 as the preferred option; the colour to be black and the section to be 100mm x 50mm. It may be possible to produce 100mm x 20 or 30mm to clear overhanging shafts or the like. I may have confused slightly in the article in that the sections being discussed referred to the rear wheel strakes, but further comments have led to the possibility of vulcanising hard rubber directly onto the raised centre tyre of a typical front wheel; on most traction engines this appears to be about 5 inches, so a 5in x 2in section is indicated. This possibility entails the whole wheel being put in an autoclave, so for those who feel they like the product a complete all-wheel service will be available. Several readers asked how it was intended to put the slight twist into the steel plate (on my own engine, this twist gives a 1/4 in gap under one corner). I find by experiment that a
Further to the item by Giles Romanes on driving traction engines (our Summer 1992, edition), he did not include road rollers. Concurrently with his researches, I too was doing the same on behalf of drivers of steam rollers. I have held Category N ('vehicles exempted from duty under Section 7(2) of the Vehicles (Excise) Act 1971') on my driving licence for over 25 years, and when the new Driving concerning regulations Licences were introduced in 1991, I questioned the validity of Category N for me to continue driving. I did not get very far to begin with, until I raised the matter at the Road Roller Association AGM in March last year. Derek Rayner, Archivist to the RRA, agreed to do his best and find an answer to my question. His judgement arrived in three closely written pages of longhand, setting out the current position, with a great deal of reference to dates, clauses and paragraphs. His opinion at the time was that I probably was not licensed to driver rollers; his advice was that I should only drive with L plates. Having already taken a comprehensive test for rollers in the mid 1960s, I was annoyed that I might have to take a new test just to satisfy the paperwork. Therefore, I followed up Derek's good work with a letter to DVLA setting out my dilemma, and suggesting that they merely grant me the category and all would be well! That suggestion fell on stony ground and they avoided the question completely. At the second attempt I had a very positive letter from the Driver Enquiry Unit explaining that 'although your vehicle exceeds 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass it is exempted from the LGV driver licensing requirements because it is propelled by steam. Consequently the vehicle may be Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
driven by the holder of a full category B entitlement (which includes C1) providing the driver is age 21 or over'. Reading between the lines the DVLA are saying that there is no further requirement to take a special test for steam-rollers. This is good news for the movement. I hope this new ruling will encourage enthusiasts to look more kindly at restoring and running rollers in future. Having resolved the licence matter, I felt it prudent to check my insurance cover with John Scott & Partners and to seek their underwriters' opinion. Again, I have had a positive response from James Campbell, who is responsible for steam matters there. He states that their underwriters are prepared to accept the DVLA ruling as set out in their letter to me. He goes on to confirm that the NTET scheme insurers are happy to follow the DVLA guidelines. He adds the rider that individuals who insure elsewhere should make certain that all is in order, rather than assume that they are adequately covered. My having at a stroke, virtually cancelled the roller driving test, does STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Marshall Universal roller 87635 of 1935 makes its way to the parade ring at Roxton rally 1991. (John Maund)
raise the prospect that some new drivers will take their rollers onto the highway with little experience of enginemanship and roadcraft. In order that we continue to act responsibly, and ensure we jointly take care of the new ruling, I do recommend that such Hummers apply for membership of the Road Roller Association, where they will be able to take advantage of vast experience, or take part in the annual driving courses organised by both the Trust and the RRA. At the same time they will be able to enjoy the fellowship of like minded people. Trevor R. Daw Beausale, Warwick
Partnership share issue I have pursued further the idea of a 'share issue' scheme (see the Robey Trust column, Steaming, Summer 1991) to raise money to acquire the only workable Robey tri-tandem roller 45655, which had a new firebox only last year. The share issue method of
fund raising has worked well for railway preservation groups over the last 20 years and I thought I would try to see if it might work for us. So far our publicity has brought an encouraging number of pledges but whether all are honoured remains to be seen. Altliuuyli niterest has been expressed in the machine from as far away as Holland, the present owner would prefer it to stay in the West Country and has generously given us a fair amount of time to see if we can raise the purchase price. I now have quite detailed prospectus sheets, partnership deed details and application forms ready for anyone who might be interested in joining us in the future running and rallying of the unusual Robey roller. If you would like to know details of the scheme, please write to me enclosing a 9in x 4in SAE. D.A. Davies 9 Churchill Road, Partnership Secretary Tavistock, Devon PL19 9BU 51
Terris Culverwell (INSURANCE BROKERS) LTD
36 ST. JOHN'S STREET DEVIZES WILTSHIRE SN 10 1BL 729369 FAX 0380 729379 0380 TEL. Established 1882
If we can help, please telephone
Videos TRAVELS WITH AN OLD WORLD ATLAS. VHS Pal, 50 minutes running time. Produced by Moonlight inc postage Productions. Price£15 from 14 Arran Avenue, Sale, Cheshire M33 3NQ. The lastest offering from Moonlight Productions covers the finishing of repair work by Fred Dibnah to former Norman Box Fowler road locomotive ATLAS, and its 30 mile run from Bolton to the 1992 Grappenhall
Traction Engine insurance inspection and/or comprehensive insurance
Rally. The video therefore concentrates on just one engine for 50 minutes but the nice camerawork and thoughtful vantage points, both of the static and moving images, avoid any feeling in the viewer that the subject, even a famous engine, is becoming too familiar. The programme includes a good potted history of ATLAS, related by narrator Jim Stevenson in his measured northern tones. The engine's exploits in heavy haulage are well described and an interesting detail sequence unfolds whilst the machine's new bearing brasses are reassembled. A brief test run at the engineering works where the work was undertaken is followed by a journey to Fred's premises for boiler inspection etc. The run to Grappenhall includes a short detour to make a brief re-run of history by calling in for a photo-call on ATLAS's former haunts at the old Metropolitan Vickers premises at Trafford Park, Manchester. Jim
New Members A sincere welcome is extended to the following new members who have joined the Trust during the last three months. We hope they will all gain much friendship, information and enjoyment from their membership over a period of many years.
52
We are registered insurance brokers who pride ourselves on giving personal service to all our clients. We arrange insurance for motor vehicles, houses, life, medical cover, liability, etc.
Stevenson's photographic record of the occasion appears elsewhere in this issue. It's a pity more couldn't have been made of the visit with the use of comparable 1930s black and white archive stills — but perhaps it's easier to suggest that than it is to find such old pictures. Nevertheless such resources ought to form a greater part in videos in the future — the history of the featured subjects needs including in a visual manner: endless rally sequences must have some limitations on tape sales in general. The remaining part of ATLAS's journey to the rally is well covered with carefully chosen locations. The video lacks unnecessary musical accompaniment and, indeed, superfluous commentary, and allows long sequences where the sounds of an engine in action can be properly appreciated, as well as the picture. This is a pleasant tape with rather more purpose to its theme than usual — and a nicely thought out title. (Roger West)
R.E. Deane, Park Farm, Radley, Abingdon, Oxfordshire. J.D. Rogers, 45 St Swithins Road, Tankerton, Whitstable, Kent. J. Readyhough, Ash Villa, By Pass Road, Garstang, Preston, Lancashire. J.W. Hunnibell, 67 Rosecroft Road, Ipswich, Suffolk. T.B.M. Nicholson, Braemount Garage, High Hesket, Carlisle. A.C. Shorrock (family members: Elliot and Alexandra), 2 Stanstead Road, Chorley, Lancashire. R.J. Griffin, Woodrising, The Ridge, Little Beddow, Essex. R.D. Booker (family member: Edna), 14 Ashleigh Close, Angmering, Littlehampton, West Sussex. J. Forshaw, 85 Broad Street, Clifton, Bedfordshire. G. Edwards, 59 Rochester Avenue, Rochester, Kent. Giorgio Deambrogi, via Martin di Belfiore 3, 20017 Rho, Milan, Italy. P.D. Robinson, 49 Lancaster Gardens, Southend on Sea, Essex. B. Luty, 5 Sheep Hill Lane, Clayton Heights, Bradford, West Yorkshire. Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
S.M. Snook, 17 Madeline Crescent, Parkstone, Poole, Dorset. R.I.Davies, Derwen, Caersws, Powys. R. Phillips, 16 North Road, Lerwick, Shetland. A. Corlett, Heather Lea, 4 Oldfield Close, Heswall, Wirral. G.H.G. Shepperd (family member: Audrey), 60 Mount Lane, Kirkby la Thorpe, Sleaford, Lincolnshire. R.G. Fletcher, Stocks Brow Farm, Bates Lane, Helsby, Warrington, Cheshire. P. Brooks (family members: Janey and Samantha), Pentre, Polgooth, St. Austell, Cornwall. M. Yardley, 71 Polmear Parc, Par, Cornwall. M. Allcock, Gibert Combe, New Portreath Road, Redruth, Cornwall. G.M. Garner, 68 Scott-Lidgett Road, Longport, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire.
Small Adverts Small advertisements for private SALES, WANTS and ANNOUNCEMENTS, and appertaining to road steam engines and their associated equipment (inc. items suitable for their maintenance and support), are free of charge to National Traction Engine Trust members, subject to a maximum of 75 words, excluding name, address and telephone number. Advertisements should be written clearly and concisely, and to ensure publication must be accompanied by the advertiser's NTET membership numberNon-members rates for small adverts are 10p per word, with a minimum choige of £1.50, payable In advance. Members wishing to use these columns for trade purposes may do so at 5p per word, minimum charge £1.50. payable in advance. The publishers retain the right to refuse or withdraw advertise. ments at their discretion and do not accept liability for clerical or printers' errors, although every care is taken to avoid mistakes.
ALL SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS TO BE SENT TO THE EDITOR; SEE TITLE PAGE OF EACH ISSUE FOR PRESS DATE.
Wanted — Vol 1, Nos 1 to 4 inc of Steaming; NTEC lapel badges, tractor and general purpose; Dorset Steam and Vintage Vehicle Club lapel badge and car badge; N1 EC publication The Steam Directory; German Developments of Steam Road Vehicles (HMSO); Steam Cars of the Stanley Twins (Jackson); Op Stoom Nu 30. M.A. Poole, Glebelands, Pulborough, West Sussex RH2O 2JH. Wanted — Sentinel DG. is 0204 841498 evenings. Books — road and stationary steam books, rare and out of print: list No 14, 9 pages, £1.50 plus 24p SAE. — Ray Roberts (Booksellers), Whiston Hall, Penkridge, Staffs ST19 50H tr/fax 0785 712232)
Wanted — original set of traction engine lamps and set of brass lorry lamps. — Kees Heikoop, Dwarssteeg 8, 4255SB Nieuwendijk, The Netherlands (sr 010 31 01834 2704 after 18.00 hours). Wanted — front wheels: one or a pair required for Burrell Gold Medal tractor 3631, size 3ft dia x Sin wide, 10 spokes. — Kevin Gamlen, is 0275 855525. Wanted — to buy, copy of Steaming, June 1980 and also a copy of The Burrell Showmans Road Locomotive (Lane). — Kevin Gamlen, sr 0275 855525. Fo► sale — Dayland steam car engine, 2 cyl, 2% x 3%in, balanced slide valves, overhung crank, central sprocket, new, f1850. — s 0953 788376.
STEAMING Winter 1992/93
C.R. Kirby, 7 Weybridge, Woodside, Telford, Shropshire. B.L. Sugden (family members: Vivienne and Pamela), 160 Eltham Palace Road, Eltham, London. A.J. Storer (family members: Margaret, Karen and Robert), 86 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex. J. Sulley, Oak Apple Cottage, North End, Motcombe, Shaftsbury, Dorset. P.J. Tambling, 2 Albany Court, Redruth, Cornwall. A.G. Cheyne (family members: Gladys, Alfred and Kenneth), Crossfields, Turriff, Scotland. N. Charlton, Greenhouses Farm, Dudley, Cramlington, Northumberland. D. Bouch, Greenacres, Heads Nook, Carlisle. L.J. Wickham, 5 West Close, Fernhurst, Haslemere, Surrey.
Wanted — for Tabor indicator (Ashcroft Manufacturing Co, NY): two indicator cocks, indicator scales, original tools, instruction manual/literature (photocopies acceptable). — Hugh Stiles, Ficarystraat 3, 6644KR Ewijk, The Netherlands Oa 010 31 8873 1292). Wanted to purchase — good clear definition coloured working, not rally, photograph of a Sentinel model DG6 and DG8, also S6 and S8. Good price paid. Please ring 0905 421252. For sale — BTC low loader trailer, 22ft in well, four in line, good condition, offers. Also one pair of cast wheels, 36in dia, offers. — S.P. Vickery, 35 Park Field, Markyate, St Albans AL3 8RB. For sale — Burrell 3 speed 8hp crane road locomotive, built to 6in scale. Two years old, first class condition throughout with current boiler certificate, taxed for road, reg. no. G248 FRE. Also all fittings to change to showmans engine (smokebox, dynamo bracket, canopy etc). A rare opportunity for a serious enthusiast. Photos available. — D. Bennion, 91 Barnmeadow Road, Newport, Salop TF10 7NS I 1r 0952 811176(. For sale — large collection of traction engine and fairground photographs — mostly postcard size, sensible price. — is. 0362 668261. Wanted — Fowler D2 parts: waterlifter; 1%in hose strainer; injector check valve; two rear axle sand caps; %in bsp taper cock (packed); ditto '/ in bsp; lubricator mounting elbow; reflex or Klinger water gauges. — 14 Bishop Auckland 772578. For sale — Premier injector 1%in bsp; Aveling brake wheel bracket; Aveling belly tank filler; McLaren 2nd shaft spur gear (new); Fowler 3rd shaft brake drum (new); Penberthy injector for water sprinklers; Aveling water gauge turret; Garrett's of Leiston; Garrett 200; Mechanical Traction in War; Saga of the Steam Plough. — Bishop Auckland 772578. For sale — Fowler 8hp differential gear wheel, c1900; Aveling & Porter final drive pinion (12 tooth) to fit 3 inch shaft with two keyways. Also Aveling roof irons for repair or patterns. — w 0824 704817. Wanted — / Worked with Traction Engines and Apprenticeship in Steam (Jack Hampshire), also A Century of Traction Engines (Hughes). — N. Keene, 48 Partridge Way, Beeches Park, Cirencester, Glos GL7 1BQ (a 0285 656907). Wanted — large factory type steam whistle for stationary boiler. Details and price to G. Doherty, Artoney, Louth Village, Dundalk, Co Louth, Eire. Wanted — 1 %in tube expander; mud hole doors for Foden 6 ton holler, 2%in x 3y in openings — David I ast, 1 Rarnacre, Watlington, Oxon OX9 5JP Or 0491 612781). Wanted — NTEC Newsletter No 1; Traction Engine Register, 1st Edition; copies of FCSF Merry-go-Round; RLS Journal Vol 11, Nos 3, 4, 6; Vol 12 No 1 and 2; Vol 13 No 6; Vol 25 No 1; Vol 32 Nos 1 and 2. — G. Hendy, 91 Gammons Lane, Watford, Hertfordshire WD2 5H1.1 Is 0923 220466) Road Locomotive Society Sales — Fowler Steam Cultivating Machinery (Gilbert) £11.95; Review of Steam Tractors (Whitehead) £10.95; Traction Engine Locomotives (Hutchinson) £3.50 paperback. Available post paid from — RLS Sales, Foxgrove, Burnt Common Lane, Ripley, Surrey GU23 6HT. 53
Wanted - for Burrell 7hp: eccentric strap 9%in x 8t in x 1 7/16in wide, also Burrell cast iron toolbox 24in x 8in x 10in high. - Michael Ward,• or 0623 882856 or 0636 812146.
For sale - Penberthy %in injector; Aveling & Porter curved name plate; Invicta door knocker; Garrett tractor spares (sell as one lot only); Lister '/ in water injector; Aveling rear axle boxes; Aveling second shaft sliding pinion, Burrell water pump plunger and gland; engine driven water pump suitable for filling water cart etc - L.J. Lambe, 84 Redditch Road, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR (or 0527 31398).
Wanted - any photos or information on Wallis & Steevens 8 ton Advance 7992 (0U788). New in 1927 to Wm. Elworthy of Tiverton; may have been Northamptonshire area in World War 2 and passing to owners/dealers in Surrey, Portland, Parkstone, spending its latter years in Ringwood. All photos can be returned and reasonable expenses met. - Jerry Hawkins, 2 Shire Terrace, Moorland, near Bridgwater, Somerset TA7 OAN (or 0278 691069). Modified Ma►shall regulator - bronze regulator main valve castings for Marshall singles as described in Steaming Summer 1992, part machined, materials to make small valve and nuts, drawings and notes, £81.50 (includes VAT, postage and packing) from Hamish Orr-Ewing, Fox Mill Farm, Purton, Swindon, Wilts SN5 9EF (tr0793 770496).
Gauge glasses - many sizes available. Send for list. - Ray Hooley, 16 Alexandre Avenue, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 8NR (or 0522 682406). Ruston & Hornsby transfers - full range of designs and sizes; send for list. Engines dated gratis. Full sets of publications available for most models. - Ray Hooley, 16 Alexandre Avenue, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 8NR (a 0522 682406).
For sale - Bobys patent corn dressing machine, in perfect order. Made by White, Child & Beney. - G. Doherty, Louth Village, Dundalk, Co Louth, Eire. For sale - flat belting, alligator belt fasteners, V belts, chain sprockets, all types of bearings. - A.C. Belting, 58 Kingsholm Road, Gloucester (12 0452 410968). For sale - postcards of Ruston Proctor traction engine 51737, limited to 1000 copies, available in multiples of 50 at 10p each including postage. - M.W. Maddever, 10 Sunnymead, Midsomer Norton, Bath BA3 2TA (or 0761 415938). For sale - Wallis & Steevens 6 ton Advance steam roller, complete and in good condition. Offers to N. Herridge, Hornbeams, Tollgate Road, Sedlescombe, Battle, Sussex TN33 ORH (.2r 0424 870806). For sale - Aveling water lifter blanking caps and swivel hose unions, cast in gunmetal to original dimensions from part no H465, castings, machined or machined and polished, thread 2%in dia x 5 tpi. - M.J. Collier, sr 081 897 3436. For sale - one early Aveling cast iron chimney top, 111%in o.d., 9% bottom and 14in base flange, overall height 49in, £60; Aveling regulator rod and valve, £35. - H. Winterbottom, 484 Ripponden Road, Moorside, Oldham, Lancashire OL4 2LL (or 061 678 0446). Wanted - main boiler inspection door for Aveling type AC roller, 14073 of 1930. - H. Winterbottom, address as above.
Wanted for 1926 Wallis & Steevens 10 ton Advance roller: trunk guides, numerous motion parts, water lifter, gravity feed cylinder lubricators, bearing caps, water gauges, plus numerous other parts. - Tr 0579 62623 evenings. Wanted - photos, information on Aveling & Porter 10 ton roller 12103 (SM7013) when working for Dumfries County Council. Any reasonable cost reimbursed. - tr 0920 487904.
National Traction Engine Club 1984) Ltd
Mail Order Books and other items of interest to traction engine enthusiasts are available by Mail Order. Please write your requirements on a separate sheet of paper and send your remittance, together with postage, membership card etc as detailed to the right. Do not forget to include
your address! BOOK LIST Traction Engine Register (1992 edition) £3.95 British T.E. Builders - No.1 Allchin of Northampton soft £ 10.95 (Middlemiss/Sawford) Steam Power - Farm and Highway members £10.00 (Sawford) non-members E12.95 VINTAGE STEAM ALBUMS (Sawford) £4.25 1. Ploughing Engines £4.25 2. Agricultural Engines 3. Showmans Road Locomotives £5.25 £4.25 4. Steam Tractors £5.25 5. Road Locomotives £5.25 6. Steam Rollers
54
STEAM IN PRESERVATION SERIES £2.95 1. Wagons (Sawford) VINTAGE STEAM SPECIAL (Reeves) £5.25 1. Steam on the Road Traction Engines of Rutland £4.00 including Portables Steam Engine Builders of Norfolk f17.95 (Clark) £4.95 A Little and Often (Edmonds) £4.95 A Wager for Ale (Edmonds) Steam Thrashing in the Cotswolds members £6.25 (Thexton) non-members £7.50 £1.00 Memories of St Giles Fair (Kirk) £1.95 A Zoo on Wheels (Middlemiss) Historic Fairground Scenes (Ware) £7.50 Sentinel Diesel Lorries (Matlock) £1.95 Pat Collins, King of Showmen £15.00 (Allen/Williams) Stationary Steam Engines £4.95 (Baker) Ploughing Engines in Focus £9.95 (Crawley)
Limited quantities only of the following out of print books Waterloo Iron Works (L.T. Rolt) Digging by Steam (C. Tyler)
£30.00 £8.95
STEAMING BINDERS to suit Vol 24 on (12 issues) to suit Vols 16 to 23 (8 issues) to suit Vols up to 15 (8 issues)
£4.95 £4.95 £4.95
CLUB ITEMS CHILDREN'S SWEAT SHIRTS Grey with small Red Logo Sizes 24"/28"/32"
£4.50
NTET - SILVER OXIDE BADGES Lapel Badge - Garrett members £2.50 non members £2.95 Lapel Badge - Gallopers members £2.50 non members £2.95 NTET - GILT/ENAMEL BADGES £1.25 Lapel Badge members only £15.50 Car Badge members only .50 Car Sticker members only Car Sticker - 'I Love Traction .30 Engines' To claim post-free for UK members please enclose current membership card. Non-members please enclose £2.50 postage per order. Overseas members please enclose £5.00 per order (Europe); £7.50 (rest of the world). PO/cheques (in sterling please) to be made payable to: National Traction Engine Club (1984) Ltd. Visa, Access and Mastercard accepted. Please state card number and expiry date, or phone 0908 583006 evenings. Please allow 28 days for delivery. Orders to be sent to: S. Dudley, 12 Hillway, Woburn
Sands, Milton Keynes MK17 8UL List 27, Winter 1992/93
Winter 1992/93 STEAMING
National Vintage Tractor and Engine Club — caters for all enthusiasts 13500 members nationwide). 28 local groups organise meetings with illustrated talks and help for members. Club magazine Vaporising with articles of interest and free ads to members. Basic membership £10. Details from Mrs P.E. Sims, 1 Hall Farm Cottages, Church Lane, Swarkestone, Derby DE7 1JB (sae please, sample magazine £1.00 stamps). Road Roller Association — for all who are interested in steam or motor rollers, road making machines, practices and history. Quarterly journal ROLLING. Subscription £10.00 per year. — Membership Secretary, Dave Crampton, 6 Norwood Close, Mackworth, Derby DE3 4GA. Steam Plough Club — for all interested in steam cultivation, offering regular newsletter, events, visits, history and technical advice. Subscription £8.00 per year, OAP's £2.00 — John Billard, Old Station House, Twyford, Berkshire RG10 9NA. For sale — Vol 16-23 inclusive of Steaming, loose, £35 plus postage to clear — A.C. Baker Tr0233 050866. For sale — Marshall traction engine, 1927, with rubber covered cast wheels and full length canopy with curtains. Completely restored, painted and lined to high standard. Current boiler certificate, Also 200 gallon water cart, rectangular with rounded top. Also Ransomes full size mill on wooden wheels, used permanently indoors, and Ransomes wire baler, both in perfect working order, fully restored and painted. Also 32in x Sin rubber covered wheels and axle and four screw bottle jacks. — a 0620 860274 (East Lothian). Hungry shire horse forces sale of Aveling-Barford 6 ton steam roller, built 1946, retubed 1983 and not steamed since 1987 due to lack of time. Last boiler report good. £6000 ono to good home, would consider part exchange of horse drawn vehicles or implements. — Andrew Jackson, tr 0353 (Ely) 778513, Wanted — for R10 Aveling single roller: flywheel, 2Yein crankshaft diameter; water feed pump complete with eccentric and rod etc. Also two Fowler displacement lubricators for a set of BB1s to make them complete. — W. Hambleton, Brigg Road, Castor, Lincolnshire LN7 6RX (tr 0472 851394). For sale — Foden 5 ton steam wagon, fully restored, excellent boiler report, very smart vehicle. For further details ir 0782 517792 or 0782 751034.
Wanted — all tractor, transport, machinery and archive films urgently required, especially 16mm manufacturers promotional and advertisements. Also early rallies, road runs, fairs, steam fairs, horses, agricultural and country shows, you name it, we want it. These films will not be transferred to video or offered for resale. Amateur films, any gauge sound or silent also equired. All our films are used to help raise money for charities; if your club would like a film show, give me a ring. — Trevor Johnson, 38 Wheatfield Road, Abington, Northampton NN3 2NE (U 0604 406758). Wanted — for Road Roller Association archives — copy of mid 1930s literature on T. Green & Son Ltd motor rollers. We have plenty of details from type DRM (1938) onwards, but we lack previous models. Information required to assist restoration; copying costs re-imbursed. — D.A. Rayner, (RRA Archivist), 9 Beagle Drive, Acomb, York YO2 3JH. Wanted — to complete restoration of two Fowler ploughs: one body casting G50; two breasts and slades to fit casting G50; one complete body casting, breast and slade G113; one ditto G114. — R.N. Parrott, It 0842 810317. Wanted to purchase — Foster tractor spares: cylinder drain taps, steam chest cover to take Pickering's governor s, safety valve; simpling valve; boiler clacks; blown down valve; differential housing; front wheels. What have you? Anything considered. — Michael Dawson IT 0775 820273. For sale — Marshall 8hp single portable engine, 1914, complete, unrestored. To view contact zr 0922 682960. For sale — four wheeled dropside trailer, ideal for traction engine, all new wood and ironwork, new 750 x 20 tyres including spare, new drawbar, roller bearing axles, totally built up for Lord Mayor's Show and not now required. Material costs alone £1300 but available for only £600. Save yourself time and money making a traction trailer — buy this one. Needs water tank, ton of coal and tilt to finish for rally season. Last chance, if I don't sell I'll keep and sell for more later. — S. Gray, 9 Walnut Way, Ickleford, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG5 3XT (tr 0462 431848).
Traction engine piston, 8 V sin dia x 2%in thick, with rings plus rod 1 7/1 sin plus brass gland, £25; Klinger glasses, 4 only, 3%in x 11! in, %in thick, 3 only 3%in x %in, %in thick, £2 each; one gauge glass protector, brass, 12%in centres, £10; pair ditto, galv. steel 12%in centres, £10; hydrant keys 1 %in, 1%in square, £10 each; replica brass makers plate 'Wm Foster & Co Ltd, The Wellington Tractor' 9Vein x Sin x %in thick, painted and polished, £25; two sets of rings and stars in cast brass (unmachined) 11%in dia, £30. — tr 0579 50447 (Cornwall). Wanted — makers drawings suitable for Aveling & Porter GND compound traction 9453, circa 1915, also photographs and information relating to working life of this engine, and accident which befell it in 1931 whilst working on new road alongside Loch Ness (this engine, which lay abandoned and dismantled on the shore of the Loch for 61 years is now in my possession and it is my intention to rebuild as close as possible to original). Whereabouts of any suitable parts, patterns etc gratefully received. I have boiler, tender, rear wheels, belly tank and cylinder block. All other parts required. — D,R. Crapper, 5 Old Bank Place, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B72 1UU la 021 321 1309). For sale — on behalf of the Trust — a large selection of old rally programmes, please send SAE for a list or state your wants. Also NTEC Road Run and Steam Party 1975 and NTEC Jubilee Rally souvenir programmes, £1.50 each inc postage. M.A. Poole, 89 Glebelands, Pulborough, West Sussex RH2O 2JH. Wanted — Buffalo injectors, any size especially class A; also Sentinel injector, need not be in good working order but must be complete. — R. Carlson, 17 Frederick Street, Newington, Conn CT06111, USA (ir 203 666 5030 or Fax 203 665 7382). Apprenticeships Wanted — for members of the Steam Apprentices Club, in most areas of the UK. Engine owners willing to involve young people and teach them the principles of traction engines please contact — Steph Gillett, SAC Magazine Editor, 93 Devon Road, Easton, Bristol BS5 6ED. xr 0272 511399. STEAMING Winter 1992/93
Thanks are due to Andrew Craske and Tom Keaton for persuading a friend with telephoto camera equipment to photograph this weather vane at Northallerton. The item, which adorns the rooftop of the North Yorkshire council's central repair depot, has some history, for it was made for the buildings by technical apprentices at Scarborough in 1938, a time when, presumably, steam rollers were a familiar sight on the premises. Apart from now missing its eastern compass pointer, the vane, made out of solid brass, is still in good order, and weathered to a light green colour. (G. Alderson) 55
0
Of Ch0 fie .
dire . toi
F os opal :pelle
KA 1S1) (FIlT
olio ft 4E. 04. -op -9/4 e
Investments Tax-planning Budgeting Mortgages & Loans School fees Liff, assurance NTET Insurance Scheme & insured company pension schemes Personal pension plans Personal insurances Commercial insurances
JOHN SCOTT & PARTNERS LTD Personal Investment & rinanchal iVianagement Consultants & Brokers
Park Row, Farnham GU9 7JH 0252 725555 and in CITY OF LONDON • KINGSTON•UPON•THAMES • MARLOW
kve