Update:
As this is an experimental build, I thought to try taking the reinforcement to the next level, I made a grid pattern of sorts out of 3/4" tall mat board ribs. I now can place a full gallon of milk on the base without stressing the base! This is overkill but fun to see what can be done. I believe milk is heavier than water.
While the glue on the ribs was drying, I had the base weighted down to a glass cutting board I use as a work surface for paper model construction, this gave a VERY flat outcome, I very much want to run this engine on my aquarium pump and the crankshaft of this model has 4 bearing supports due to the turbine hidden inside the firehouse, I want all those bearings to stay in alignment for low drag.
The Ribs:
[ Guests cannot view attachments ]
I looked it up and a USA gallon of milk weight approx 8.6 lbs
[ Guests cannot view attachments ]