Can I suggest we start a thread on UK sources of supply for steam car stuff - this would be a very useful function for the Phorum which will not compete with the two US sites which we all read. I’ll kick off and others can follow with their own suggestions as replies to my post - that way it will all build up in one thread and not be scattered through the Phorum.
I have been looking for the old brown coloured shellac smelling Green Hermatite which is so good for sealing steam joints - I hear it is still made but can’t find anyone who admits to selling it. However I have just found what seems to be an identical product by the name of “Heldite” jointing Compound and made by Heldite Limited, Bristow Road, Hounslow, Middlesex TW3 1UP. Phone 020-8577 9167. Sold in 250ml cans for about £7 by heating engineer’s suppliers.
How about a psychiatric counselling service for anyone thinking about buying a steam car, and a financial advisory service for anone rash enough to actually buy one.....
Think I've found a coachbuilder to do Stanley 7644's body, there goes all hope of a Series III Landrover Discovery next year I think!
The simplest and very effective jointing medium was introduced to me some years ago by an old steam engineer who said it was extensively used in loco practice on any joints which need to be steamtight but also release when needed for repair.
The "Black Gunge" is made by taking about half a pint of good steam cylinder oil and gently stirring into it fine flaked graphite until it is good and thick.It keeps forever in a sealed jar and never fails to seal and the joints break easily with normal handling-and it is cheap.
Another question - does anyone know of a source for 5/16th 20 G copper tube in long lengths for use in a smoke hood economiser? I am looking for about 25 metres in one length.