The pictorial instructions for very easy to follow. Fit and function is superb. The get includes all the tools necessary to assemble the steam engine. They even give a spare parts package. I'm very pleased with the final product. It runs awesomely!
Easy assembly except hole in support to install reversing lever was to small to accept lever. Had to drill out with 1/4 “ drill. Suggest installing rubber band around boiler support assembly to make installation of brass support posts much easier
Arrived on my doorstep with no problems. Waiting for me to finish another project before I start this one.
Christmas opening; New Year assembly & operation. As mentioned in earlier review, kit arrived before Christmas. Max & I assembled it NewYears Day. A feat in its self for an impatient 11 year old. Fit & Finnish are great. Had some trouble getting the lamp/wick holder into the head stopper/heat shield; small duck bill pliers solved issue. We get about 3 min operation out of half load fuel & water; 5 with 3/4 load.
After running the engine for a while I found it runs really well. My only concern is the plastic connectors for the light are not up to the job and melt very quickly. Silicon wire would be a much better and safer option. I will now have to rewire the machine with safer components. For this reason only I can not recommend the engine in its currant configuration. Photos can be supplied on request.
I've never seen such a beautiful beam engine model with a fully working flyball governor, so I absolutely needed to buy this kit. Assembling was easy and great fun. And the little engine runs perfectly even for the first time! This is really a great high quality model that brings so much joy - I would buy it again without hesitation.
youtube video (assembling and running): https://youtu.be/WUc1dygBdMY?si=PIiukdShecSa_aTp
Loving putting it together, and the pdf instructions is a winner can't wait to finish and see it run 🙌
A very difficult & challenging build but a lot of fun building this set.
Good instructions. Definitely value for money.
Shows Microcosm's constant innovation. Well made, runs great, sounds great, good looking. A great gift
Overall impression:
I was very impressed with the overall quality and "fit and finish" of this model. There is very little I can find to complain about in this regard. Despite some of the minor negatives I'll discuss in a moment, my overall impression is very positive and I would not hesitate to recommend this model to anyone who has an interest in these things. The asking price is a bit on the high side, but given the niche market this appeals to, along with the high quality and solid construction of the unit makes me think that I got a fair deal for my money.