3" Fowler 4 Wheel Drive.

Now here is something you don't see everyday, a 4 wheel drive traction engine! In the early days of steam some companies experimented with all wheel drive systems with most designs stemming form the 1880s, unfortunately with no survivors we rely on models to re-create these interesting and unusual examples so we were very pleased when this 3" Fowler arrived and we got the opportunity to look over it and have a play.

First off this thing is a cracking model, built by a prolific model engineer from little more than a couple of photos it comes out a real beast! Weighing around quarter of a ton and standing over 4' long and 3.5' tall this is one of the largest offerings in 3". Build quality and finish throughout is to a high standard and the engine runs really beautifully when in steam.

The engine unit itself is a compound arrangement with a double-high button for starting if required. Driving is a real pleasure, I cant remember an engine which seemed quite so effortlessly powerful. Driving up the steep hill in the yard it pulls up it like its on the flat and yes if you watch the video there was a slight 4 wheel slip as i pulled away. In top gear this thing can really get a move on!

Boiler maintenance is a breeze as well, with the steam supply coming off the dome at the top you have a huge amount of grace with the water level and with the deep firebox it steams really well. Water feed is through a crank driven pump and hand pump in the tender, an injector is fitted but not currently working.

The boiler runs at 150 psi and testing in recent years has been conducted by an independent inspector on the commercial scheme. It is worth noting that as the boiler sits in the chassis frames access to the firebox with a thickness meter for annual inspection is quite difficult, as such she is on a 5 year-interval for the hydraulic test which requires the boiler taking out of the frames, don't panic though this is a lot simpler job than you first think only requiring a handful nuts and bolts to be undone and couple of steam pipes disconnected to lift the boiler out.

Overall this is a really special model and one which is not only hugely interesting and unique but also really practical and enjoyable to own and use. It comes with all the usual bits and bobs, coal, oil, tube brush, driving trolley, firing irons and a days tuition included if required.

For further information or to arrange a viewing please do not hesitate to contact us.