P S Pevensey & Power

[Peter Webster]

A bit of advice needed. As this is my first full steam powered paddler I am still in a quandry over which power unit to use. The model is a 1/24 scale plan from Float A Boat plans service and I was originally going to use a twin cylinder version of the Unit Steam engines but I have the chance of getting a Graham Steam unit ,the 2 cylinder TVR1a reversible, self starting engine from the U.S. in combination with a Saito Boiler.
Any advice gratefully recieved.
Peter W.

[kiwimodeller]

Peter, in my humble opinion that would be a much better engine, more power, reversible etc. You do not say what model of Saito boiler and they make several sizes, all of which seem on the small size for the engines they are matched with. Saito boilers do not seem to have the best of reputations, presumably because they are made of fairly light Brass, but I have never heard of one actually blowing up. Also the original boilers run on what we call Methalayted Spirits and the Americans call Denatured Alcohol which can get a bit messy. Personally I would go for the engine but try and get a gas fired boiler. Hope this helps a bit. Regards, Ian.

[Peter Webster]

Ian,
      Thanks for the reply. The Saito boiler I have is 5ins long x 3ins diameter and a centre flue boiler I have been given a small butane gas torch which I may be able to convert the Saito to a gas fired unit but it seems to run ok on the metho plus if I get thirsty while out boating, well you know what I mean
Peter W