Member postings for Paul Lousick

Similar to Andrew, The slide valve on my Ruston TE has a slide valve on the side which kept falling off and not sealing when steam was shut off. Then bang back on when turned on.

A simple flat leaf string attached to the back of the slide valve (made from "Band-it" steel strapping) and rubs against the back of the cover plate fixed the problem. Very little force is required to hold the valve, just enough to keep it seated.

Edited By Paul Lousick on 03/10/2023 22:19:05

There are a few examples on Youtube

Edited By Paul Lousick on 03/10/2023 09:05:12

Welcome to the forum.

Doing up a Lambretta or Vespa is at the top of my list of of projects that I would love to do. I am very jealous. I live in Australia and they are very rare and expensive down here.

Cheers, Paul.

Lots of small. simple oscillating type, steam engines on the WigWag site **LINK**

And there are engine plans on MEW, like the Muncaster Simple Entablature engine.  https://www.model-engineer.co.uk/forums/postings.asp?th=139596&p=1

Edited By Paul Lousick on 23/09/2023 22:57:04

Justin, There is a lot of stick out from the end of the mill spindle to the end of the cutter which will allow it to deflect. What type of tool holder are you using. It looks more like a drill chuck which are not rigid enough for milling.

Oxford UK, Webster USA.

I've only known gibs for adjusters on machines. The Oxford English dictionary defines gib with a few meanings but gibbon only as an animal.

As stated, each manufacturer has their own numbering system. I have an Aloris, wedge type QCTP. Their catalog of parts can be found here: **LINK**

For other brands, do a google search.

My house insurance (Sydney, Australia) has a clause about not storing gas cylinders inside the house. Fire fighters will not enter the house if they know there are cylinder inside and catastrophic if they did enter and one exploded.

Our government rules for transporting oxygen and acetylene cylinders. Ensure cylinders are fixed and secure before starting your journey, in an upright, vertical position and separated from the driver's compartment. Ensure valves are protected from accidental opening. Unload cylinders as soon as you reach your destination. Never store acetylene cylinders in an unventilated vehicle.

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Edited By Paul Lousick on 05/09/2023 10:47:57

The Machinery;s Handbook contains a wealth of information, much of which you will not use. When I was working in Mechanical Engineering, I was given a copy for my birthday (many moons ago). I think it was the 19th edition. The first metric edition. But in the past 20 years have hardly used it and got what I needed from the internet.

If you want to check its content before purchasing a copy, do an internet search. Lots of pdf copies that you can download.

As Nick originally stated, it is difficult to get coal in small quantities for model engines, even though Australia has vast quantities. Fortunately, I also belong to a full size steam engine club that gets it by a 20 ton truck load.

Nick, this the type of charcoal that I have used which is made from hard wood but at almost $60 for a 20 kg bag is expensive and I would burn 2 of these on a full days steaming.

Edited By Paul Lousick on 28/08/2023 10:15:03

Wood charcoal (from Bunnings hardware) burns OK in my 6" traction engine but produces a lot of sparks and needs an arrestor on the chimney. I have been burnt on more than one occasion. Easily raises steam but does not last long and continually adding a handful size every 5 minutes of operation.

Have not used briquettes that much because the type which I used produced a lot of clinker. Have not tried a mix of charcoal and briquettes which may be a better option.

Coal is available but has to be bought in bulk quantities and many clubs buy by the tone and share it between members.

Edited By Paul Lousick on 28/08/2023 09:21:32

The motor selection will depend on the power rating that the mill requires. Find the motor size that was originally fitted. Does the mill have gear or belt speed adjustment. If variable speed is needed, remember that the motor torque is reduced at slow motor speed.

Some smaller sewing machines have variable speed via a foot pedal while other large commercial machines run at constant speed and use a mechanical clutch for stopping and starting.

As stated, an article or drawing of your holders would be appreciated.

Actually cost me $25 at the recycle centre at our local rubbish dump. Motor was not working but got it running.

I like them, especially the double holder and thinking of making some myself

Edited By Paul Lousick on 26/08/2023 06:38:05

Coolant pump that is used on mills and lathes.

The tank has 2 compartments and the return coolant enters the first compartment. Solids settle to the bottom of the first tank with a magnet to attract ferrous metals. Liquid has to flow over a barrier wall to enter the second tank and pump. The motor is above the tank and away from any liquid and the pump below in the second tank. Motors are available single and 3 phase.

I only have a small bandsaw for cutting metals and use a bees wax stick to lubricate the blade

Edited By Paul Lousick on 25/08/2023 13:29:55

One of the main problems with steam engines is keeping the brass shiny. I have found that elbow grease is the best.

I agree with you Mike, The Website FAQS covers many standard items like this and the common question about adding photos to postings. But a newby my not realize this when they first join and a clear, visible link would help.

Paul.