Prototype?

Was there a prototype for the Basic Project Engine?

The images below can be found on pages 18 and 19 of "Logging Railroads of the West" by Kramer Adams. Obviously, the Basic Project Engine is not a scale model of either of these engines. However, the Basic Project Engine is faithful to the engineering intent of its full size predecessors. In other words, it is a flatcar converted to a locomotive utilizing blacksmith skills and any available power source (typically a vertical boiler and stationary engine). I like to think that this makes the Basic Project Engine at least somewhat prototypical. Others may argue that it is toy-like. I believe it's a little bit of both. Nonetheless, it is a truly interesting and fun locomotive that happens to turn heads wherever it goes.

Both images are shown with their original captions.

D I S C L A I M E R
Please read:

You are responsible for your own safety - it is up to you to educate yourself on safe construction and operating practices before starting any project involving live steam.
All content presented in these pages is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any particular technique, component, or design practice. The sole purpose of this website is to document the way in which I built my first live steam locomotive.
It is up to each individual visiting this site to research and decide for themselves the suitability and safety of any techniques, components, or design practices they may wish to employ in their own practice.
When approached correctly, building and operating live steam locomotives can be a safe and enjoyable hobby. There are many books available in the hobby to guide and educate the novice. Check with one or more of the online live steam discussion groups for recommendations.

This page last updated: 02/10/05