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General Hints:
As with all operating machinery, whether model or full size, wear will occur. In the
model steam locomotive much can be done to help prolong its life and decrease the
amount of time required in the workshop for servicing.
Keep the engine as clean as possible, and the motion free from dirt and garden debris.
The valve gear, axles and crank pins should be oiled sparingly with light oil, e.g. “3-
in-1 Oil”. Over-oiling attracts dirt and grit, which will increase wear.
Regularly check that all screws and motion bolts are firm. Do not over-tighten, as
this strips threads and shears bolts
. When filling the lubricator, always use a high
temperature steam oil; this is available from your dealer. FAILURE TO USE
THE CORRECT GRADE OF OIL CAN LEAD TO BLOCKED STEAM
PIPES, AND WILL INVALIDATE THE GUARANTEE.
When running your engine avoid excessive speed and acceleration, both will cause
premature wear in the valve gear. Prototypically, narrow gauge locomotives ran at a
speed of between 10 and 20 M.P.H., and never exceeded 25 M.P.H.
Positions of Fillers and Drains etc.
The gas inlet valve
is in the small turret situated in the cab floor to the rear of the
burner. Use an extended gas adaptor on a 45 degree angle to fill the tank. The gas
control valve is in the rear offside of the cab and is shaped like the hand brake.
The lubricator
is in the offside front of the cab, just forward of the doorway and
behind the reverse lever. The filler cap has a screwdriver slot in it to aid removal.
The lubricator drain is directly beneath the lubricator. To drain, un-screw the drain
valve through about ½ a turn.
The boiler water filler
is just in front of the cab on the top of the boiler. The main
steam regulator valve is on the small turret on the back end of the boiler.
Beware the
handle gets very hot!
The direction control
is the lever in the right hind side of the cab, just forward of the
lubricator. To operate pull the lever gently outwards, and move to the desired
direction. The control is “gated”, and will therefore hold itself in the full forward or
reverse position.
Preparation for Running
Always service the engine in the following order; first gas, then oil, then water.
Although we recommend Butane gas, the system will also work with, and is safe for
Butane/Propane mix gas.
