Hi Nathan, as Jo suggests, baby steps first. We often recommend to those starting out to begin with a simple barstock oscillating engine to begin acquiring the skills needed for more advanced projects. A multi-cylinder scale model is certainly a worthy goal, but not a good starting place unless your experience level is already more than I am assuming from your introduction post. The problem is that one can easily get frustrated when biting off more than you can chew so to speak. Many if not most of us started out in the same place and if you wish, this hobby can be a rewarding and lifelong journey and you can get to the destination you desire as experience is gained. We have all made plenty of mistakes and scrap parts too along the way too. Actual design of your own engines adds yet another layer of both challenge and satisfaction.
It would also help to know what machinery you have or have access to for model building. Looking forward to hearing more from you.
Bill
