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Author Topic: Retrol SE-03  (Read 104 times)

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Retrol SE-03
« on: February 23, 2026, 05:41:37 pm »
I completed the model last weekend.  Using solid-fuel tablets and distilled water, I heated the water until the pressure gauge reached maximum indicated pressure.  I opened the steam valve and pushed the flywheel to start the engine.  It attempted to run but would not continue, acting as though it was not getting sufficient steam pressure.  I closed the steam valve, waited a few minutes, and repeated the start procedure.  I received the same results.  Does anyone have any idea why it will not run?  Everything is oiled and turns freely.
Thank you…
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Re: Retrol SE-03
« Reply #1 on: February 23, 2026, 06:11:51 pm »
Blockage in the steam line?
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Re: Retrol SE-03
« Reply #2 on: February 23, 2026, 09:25:21 pm »
Hi and welcome to the forum.

I have this engine and have had a lot of fun with it from building it to running it.

I've used a multitude of fuels to bring the water to boil in the boiler, though solid fuel tabs not being one of them.

Is there enough build-up of steam that the safety valve is lifting and steam emitting from it?
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Re: Retrol SE-03
« Reply #3 on: 6 hours ago »
  Sorry for your trouble.....been there myself.
Now...to beat it into submission...

  Did you check for steampipe blockages as suggested? 
If none were found, then...

  Is the slide valve set properly?  If the timing
is off it will not work regardless of the pressure.
That is my best bet, unless there is some manufacturing
flaw that slipped through product inspection.  Doesn't
seem to be a design flaw.

I'll be building mine soon,
Wayne
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