Hi
In 2014 my two granddaughters wanted to build a Stirling engine after several other projects. Model Engine builder had an article by Norm Jones and picked that one. They started in the shop when they were 8 and 10, now 19 and 21.
The oldest one, Rachel, finished up her engine this week, spent 6 days making parts and fitting it up. She is a senior this fall in Chemical Engineering at Michican Tech in Houghton MI. Being in college she had limited time but would try and visit for a few days each year. When they were younger they would spend almost a month. They are excellent quilters and spend time in grandma's shop also.
Rachel's last issue was the Crankshaft was too long by .022 causing some binding, she fixed that up. Then she put a fire to the engine Saturday morning around 11 am and flipped it over and it took off. The smile and expression on her face was unbelievable. I think all model builders feel the same way when an engine comes alive for the first time, but it is great to see that on a young person interested in the hobby.
Natalie almost had hers done last summer. She had the graphite piston to make and some polishing. She will need to fit the engine up and see how smooth everything is. She also is in college targeting a MD degree. This summer she is taking a class and working to pay for college. Her goal is to get out to grandpa's shop for a building session, if she can find two or three days in a row. Its a 2 hour drive out to my place.
Here is a link to Rachel's engine:
Bob
