This engine is derived from a design which was published in Model Engineer magazine in 1965 by Geoffrey Weller. It is generally similar to, but slightly smaller than, the Aldbury Manor Mk4). The design was used as a project by certain schools, including Court Lodge Comprehensive School, so it's likely this was made as a school project at Court Lodge; possibly under the tutelage of Roger Williamson. Unfortunately, the actual student is unknown
Click here to read an interesting email concerning the history of this and other Weller engines.
Typical of school projects, the design includes a range of metalworking techniques. The base is a substantial casting which includes the mounting for the engine frame. The firebox is a traditional folded steel construction supporting the boiler and having a hole for the burner.
The burner is a slotted tube meths type. The square fuel tank is made from folded brass with soldered joins. The tube has 5 lateral slots cut into it and fits through the hole in the firebox. This protects the tank from the heat of the flame.
The brass boiler is 1.75" diameter x 4.5" long. It is a simple pot boiler with a safety valve which also doubles as filler. There is no water gauge or overflow plug. The steam pipe issues from a very nominal steam dome at one end of the boiler and goes directly to the engine bracket.
The engine is a traditional single acting oscillating type, 3/8" bore x 3/4" stroke. The piston rod is a flat bar connecting to a disc crank on one end of the crankshaft. The crankshaft fits through the engine bracket and the support forming part of the base casting. This arrangement gives a good long bearing surface. There is a drilling in the casting for oiling. On the other end of the crankshaft is a 1.875" diameter machined flywheel.
On the whole, this example is well made and is in good condition. It runs very well and smoothly, and is a credit to it's maker, especially if he/she was a pupil still learning metalworking skills.
The last photo on the left shows the size comparison between the AM Mk4 and the CL Mk1.
