In the past several years, I have built several model engines, gas hit-and-miss and hot air, mostly from purchased rough castings. Being a retired tool and die maker, the machining of parts was no problem.
However, steam was somewhat new to me, so I depended on a couple of friends for technical advice. I am grateful to Mr. Ward Taylor, a longtime steam enthusiast, and Mr. Walter Durst, a local industrialist and steam expert, for their help.
The tractor is an approximately 1/10-scale model of a 65 horse Case. Its dimensions are 26 inches long, 10 inches wide and 15 inches high, with a 1-1/8-inch by 1-3/16-inch bore and stroke. The boiler is of copper, the engine is of brass and bronze, and the rest is of steel and brass. It is constructed entirely of flat and bar stock. There are no castings.
It took almost two years of my spare time, but was fun to build. I exhibit my engines at the Rock River Thresheree, held over the Labor Day weekend, north of Janesville, Wisconsin.
I find model building to be quite rewarding, and they draw a lot of interest at shows. IMA
Richard N. Sands is from Beloit, Wis.
