Member postings for Ken S.

Hello Group:

If I get extension blocks for my Unimat SL would it be possible to to go from unfinished castings to a functioning Sirius steam engine with this mini lathe set-up? I do have the milling attachment and would consider hand boring the cylinder blocks. What work might I need to outsource to a larger lathe? I thought I would do the Stuart Twin but I believe the Sirius would be a better choice for me. All opinions/input (other than "your daft" is appreciated. I would especially like to hear from individuals who have had experience machining the Stuart Sirius.

Regards,

Ken S.

NYC-USA

Jason and Phil:

Thanks for the info. Jason I started to look at the message thread you provided a link for and it answers many questions. Some of which I haven't even come up with yet. Phil I'll definitely give a shot at looking up some plans. Guys thanks for the common sense advice.

Regards,

Ken S.

Hello Group:

Thank you for all the replies. Would be interested in how to bore the cylinder on the Unimat. Vertical mill? I looked at Stuarts website but they did not have a machined twin steam launch. I'm in no rush and will be joining the boat forum to get some ideas on hull design, size and configuration. Thanks again for the warm welcome.

Ken S.

NYC-USA

Hello group:

Much woodworking done, not a lot with metal. Looking at a project to fill out my approaching retirement and have selected a model open steam launch. Time won't be an issue, equipment may be. I'll have a lot of questions about the lathe/mill work and the capabilities of my little unimat. Really like the Stuart twin steam launch combined with my own boiler build. I'm roughing out the conceptual design and layout and will post questions in the appropriate sub-forums. I hope I can get around buying a larger lathe, just to avoid my wife throwing the uni at me. It's small but heavy...ouch.

I couldn't hold off. First dumb question:

Can a cast iron Stuart Engine cylinder be hand bored? If I need to I'll post it in the appropriate sub-forum. I ask this because the first rifles had hand rifled barrels, somewhat of a similar process. Possibly using a reamer?

Regards,

Ken S.

NYC-USA

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