Thank you for your reply!

I like your experiment.
CMS:
https://www.chilternmodelsteam.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&path=61&product_id=53This mentions a simple twin cylinder that is reversible by supplying steam to the exhaust port... They offer a valve to accomplish that.
We can do compounding with identical cylinders but as a 3 cylinder. I am contemplating making a 3 cylinder Mamod engine. 1 HP, 2 LP.
I've been browsing the CMS website and they look to be high quality and well priced. The only drawback is that I prefer twin flywheel engines and the cranks are cut short
