Office of Steam Forum for Model & Toy Steam Gas & Hot Air Engines

The Regular Stuff: Chat, Buy, Sell, Off Topic, etc. => General Discussion - Model & Toy Steam Engines – Stirling Cycle – Flame Lickers – Small Antique Originals => Topic started by: Hassellbear on February 07, 2024, 09:24:13 am

Title: Re: New (To Me) Empire 32
Post by: komet163b on February 07, 2024, 01:29:36 pm
  The Fleischman is a feature packed engine.
I have one that was almost perfect when I
bought it (the tin walkway needed a bit of
work).  This is what mine looks like when
it runs.  The original burner was missing
and only one of my burners, a MAMOD, would
fit. 

https://youtu.be/a-7Ppz7no28

Happy steaming,
Wayne
Title: Re: New (To Me) Empire 32
Post by: Hassellbear on February 07, 2024, 12:51:05 pm
Thanks everyone for the safety valve info. I very much like the Paula solution, and the silicon clad washer is now on order.

As for the swap question, when I opened the box the engine shipped in my wife's face lit up with a smile. I'm fairly certain she has laid partial claim and a swap would be difficult. However, there's no telling what the future holds.  :)


P.S.

There's a Fleischmann in my future. From the pictures, it looks to be in decent condition, but I'll know for sure when it arrives. It'll round out my modest collection at 4 engines (I hope), which is what I have room for.

I so appreciate the size and weight of model steam engines, as they are much easier on the back than the hit and miss engines and other heavy iron I used to dabble in.
Title: Re: New (To Me) Empire 32
Post by: komet163b on February 07, 2024, 11:46:49 am
Honestly, I am in awe of everything Paula does.  A real pro.
As for me, I'm a (for the most part) 'By any means necessary'
and 'Just make it go' steamer.

Good Luck,
Wayne
Title: Re: New (To Me) Empire 32
Post by: RichSteamTx on February 07, 2024, 11:14:29 am
See this thread/post from @Paula - she has posted superb tips on all kinds of engines and covers the Empire Smokestack (pressure valve).

Empire No. 90 Restoration - Multiple Issues (https://www.officeofsteamforum.com/technical-tips-builds-and-help/empire-no-90-restoration-multiple-issues/msg44342/#msg44342)


I used that #91195A120 washer from McMaster-Carr in nearly all my smokestacks.

Nice engine and great to see another collector with a Empire :-) 
Title: Re: New (To Me) Empire 32
Post by: komet163b on February 07, 2024, 10:01:50 am
  Clean engine (produced 1946-50) and a nice video.
Wanna swap for a B-30 or B-31?  The answer should
be no as yours is rarely up for sale.

  Regarding the S/V...I've added a photo taken from
the book 'Metal Ware Corporation' by Donald Stilson.
It is an exploded schematic view of an engine that
shows how the S/V is set up.  A skinny brass bolt
w/nut, a spring that fits and is a reasonable strength,
maybe a washer, and maybe some gasket material.  It
is kind of a 'Pull a rabbit out of your hat' sort
of job.

Good Luck,
Wayne
Title: New (To Me) Empire 32
Post by: Hassellbear on February 07, 2024, 09:24:13 am
I now have an Empire 32 in my meager collection. It's simple and fun. Like many vintage items, it needs a bit of work, but it runs well. The pressure relief valve must be repaired as a previous owner had replaced the plunger with a small machine bolt which was tightened down. Hopefully, someone can provide pics or a rough sketch of the correct safety valve internal assembly. Any info and tips will be greatly appreciated.

For videos see:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYV8HBFLSkU

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/wNllSjaU3Bo

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/z6NaLsIy_lA