Model Locomotive Boilermaking

Model Locomotive Boilermaking by Alec F. Farmer. paperback edition. ISBN: 9781852600075.

Published in 1988 in paperback by Patrick Stephens Ltd (A Thorsons Company), Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, UK, ISBN 1-85260-007-1; this latest book in the popular series of PSL Model Engineering Guides is based on Alec Farmers highly successful lecture Boilermaking Without Tears. In well-illustrated, step-by-step instructions, he explains the process of constructing a model coal-fired locomotive boiler, from the selection of tools and materials through the working of the metal, to the testing of the finished job. As well as being a satisfying project in itself, boilermaking alos provides plenty of opportunities for improving general model engineering skills. Alec Farmer draws on his many years of practical experience to create an invaluable guide to this absorbing craft, highlighting the pleasures yet at the same time warning where the problems may aris and advising how they can be avoided. Readers should note that this book will help build model boilers, but its not an instruction manual to build multiple types of boiler. The boiler this builds is shown on page 14 and 15 in side, front and rear elevations and the book then takes 302 steps over 191 pages to construct this boiler and show the finished article. This is then shown at work on a 4-6-0 steam engine (No. 7818) at Illshaw Heath, home of the Birmingham Society of Model Engineers. Castings and boiler materials were supplied by Reeves (now Reeves2000), with drawings (supplied by MAP, Argus Publications, "Torquay Manor". MAP is sadly now defunct). There are 16 colour photographs in the centre of the book and the finished locomotive can be seen gleaming in the final of these. Overall a lovely book and certainly of great value to any budding and experience model engineers