Hi all,
I recently bought this beam steam engine in kit form from
EngineDIY.comIt goes for around $300, but can usually be had for around $240 with the discount codes they offer.
I was a bit skeptical ordering an engine from China, but was pleasantly surprised with the quality of workmanship after I received it.
It has a working governor, which is quite remarkable considering the price. It's made from brass and stainless steel stock.
It comes with an alcohol burner, but I have started using a butane-fired burner. It also has ball bearings on the flywheel axle.
The boiler is quite small. Not sure how much water it holds, but can't be more than 150 ml because it only requires three or so funnel loads to fill it to 3/4 full. I can get about 18 minutes run time until it gets to less than ¼ full.
Anyway, I've posted a link to a video I made of the engine running at pretty much top speed, as the governor is running balls out.
Let me know what you think.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eD-jIgOdhPc
Nice review Tim. I have eyeballed this plant more than once, good to see an actual honest review of it. I did notice the diminutive size of the boiler & that held me back.
I think that is a rather good deal for the price, and a very good looking set-up as well.
It is sort of too bad they didn't provide a more appropriate sized boiler for it, but that can be remedied.