Re: Converted cars to steam
Posted by: (81.168.70.---)
Date: April 25, 2009 03:36AM
Hi Old Timer,
I have Peter Barrett's car, which is based on an old style VW Beetle, although the body is very different. The engine is also built on a VW Beetle engine. Only 2 of its cylinders are used. I understand the air cooled VW engine is a popular choice for conversion. I have heard of all four cylinders being used, with the crankshaft being sawn in two & welded back together at 90 degrees to enable starting from stall.
Jay Carter made a very successful steam car based on an air cooled VW car, but its engine was scratch built; as was David Beale's Reliant Fox.
I believe Peter Barrett's earlier experiments included a Triumph Spitfire with a converted outboard engine.
I didn't realise Richard Hounslow owned the steam Hupmobile. Jowett horizontally opposed twin, with steam going through the original poppet inlet valve the opposite direction, wasn't it?
Greg