Pumping Engine

The general idea for this engine came from an old illustration sent in by Chuck Sleppy from Troy, Ohio. The yoke-type of piston rod transmits the steam pressure directly to the pump. The connecting rods are light-duty, mostly for timing. This engine was first made in 1981 with double-acting pumps. The pumps were not satisfactory and the engine was set aside. Later, they were cut down to single action. There was no improvement until now with this design. The Pumps now are bare Cylinders with separate outside Valves piped to them. The passages and Valves are larger, and they pump a good stream. Overall, this Pumping Engine resembles the old city waterworks pump with a catwalk, railings, and a ladder. The parts are generally not difficult to make.