Subject of the Blog
I am writing this blog so as to share my interest and
experience of building a steam car with like-minded folk. In time, I expect to use the car! I hope that people will share their thoughts
on the subject. When I have mentioned my
interest, it has sparked interest, enthusiasm and encouragement, beyond my
expectations. So this record is by way
of a thank you.
I am naming this blog “Alan’s Loco” being
ambiguous because it is either about me building a replica of the 1899
Locomobile, or just me going dotty! I am
sure some people think my interest is eccentric.First Interest
I have had an interest in steam engines for as long as I can remember. In the 1950’s a farmer in Suffolk could be seen using a small traction engine to pull a plough, he also used a horse drawn plough.Working metal, wood and other materials interests me, even when the results have been functional rather than aesthetic. I still have the work pieces and tools I made as an apprentice, and they still please me; one of them won me a prize when I was at college.
I first heard about the Steam Traction World replica when I was browsing on the internet for information on steam valve gear. I found out about Stephenson, Walschaerts, Hackworth, Corliss and several other types of valve gear. By chance, I also found out about a company which makes kits for model steam engines. Their catalogue included a full scale replica of an 1899 Locomobile steam car – called the “Lykamobile”. I thought I would really like to build and use one of those, and ear-marked it as a retirement project. As I started part time working, they fortuitously planned to re-start production on a “limited edition” (30 in all) new, improved series 2. I am now, with up to 30 others, waiting for design proving to be complete and deliveries to start.
Hi Alan,
ReplyDeleteChanced upon your blog. I have a part built Lykamobie from the original batch that I just brought so will be following your blog with interest. My kit is somewhat different however as it has a new replica 14" Stanley boiler, and will have an original Locomobile engine installed as well as other original parts, as I don't like the idea of all the mod cons, and while a replica I want it to be as accurate as possible. Am looking at building a replica timber frame as well.
"Unknown" Thanks for your post. I think the people at Steam Traction World would be sympathetic with your thoughts about going back to basics; I think their Series2 will be closer to the original that the Series1. I have seen a number of pictures of original Locomobiles, and many were improved when they were new. For example the UK version was offered with a hood - a bonus suitable for UK weather. Some of the original features seem to be a bit risky (e.g. a pressurised air and petrol container), so I welcome STW's adaptations.
ReplyDelete