On behalf of the owner we are pleased to offer for sale this rare and fantastic engine, Tasker 1424. Recognisable to many by its unique pannier water tanks.

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Supplied new in May 1910 to Garsides of Leighton Buzzard the engine was primarily used for sand haulage to munitions factories before being sold at auction in 1919 alongside the companies 10 other engines . Garsides moved to using a light railway after the local council told the quarry companies they would be liable for repairs to the local roads necessitated by the constant traffic of heavy steam engines. After this the engine had several owners and ended up in Ireland.  Its last working owner was another quarry company, here it was fitted with a Tasker convertible roller kit and used in the upkeep of the quarry roads.  The roller kit is now with Tasker B2 convertible 1902, please note 1424 left the works as a tractor not a convertible.

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Returned to England in the mid 1980s, the engine underwent an extensive restoration by Joe Walker during the 90s/early 2000s. During this time the boiler received a new fire box and barrel and remains in very good condition with high metal thickness readings all round. It is fair to say 1424 had a very hard working life as such pretty much every component on the engine was renewed or refurbished including a new set of gears. Recent work has included a new set of boiler tubes (2 years ago), renewed valve guide bushes and re machined valve faces and valves. The engine is now being sold in top mechanical condition and wants for nothing. 

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Over the years it has proven itself as a brilliant road engine completing a number of long trips to rallies all over the UK, roading days of over 100 miles are not uncommon or are they particularly arduous. Taskers are generally known for being quick engines and although 2 speed 1424 has little trouble keeping up with its 3 speed counterparts over the course of the day. The large pannier water tanks mean water top ups are required only every 40 miles or so, allowing an average roading speed of 12-14mph. 

 

Speaking to the owner the beauty of the engine is how easy it is to drive and fire, it is very free steaming and a powerful machine. Even with heavy trailers on tow, hills seem to have minimal effect to the road speed and its only the very steepest hills which require a gear change.

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Engines of this standard, with a proven history of reliable use, do not come up for sale very often. Viewings and inspections are welcomed by genuinely interested parties....we are confident you wont be disappointed!

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We would be happy to help with any steam or vintage vehicles in part exchange where we can. Finance can also be arranged with our specialist broker.

 

As with all engines sold through our advertising service the engine remains with the owner however, please call us in the first instance should you have any questions or wish to arrange a viewing.

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