Scott vacuum engine (flame gulper)

[Sanjay F]

Timing set to open port just before BDC.
Used the blowtorch at various angles and intensities
Made a tiny v shaped section which is down the end of the blow torch to widen the flame
Super glue is now breaking down after a day of trying and water leaking everywhere
Made an axe for my daughter's school project on Vikings

Have not yet taken the axe to the engine, but it's coming 

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUe9fOvxcbM" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUe9fOvxcbM</a>

Sigh ...............any more thoughts or ideas?

[PaulR]

Sigh ...............any more thoughts or ideas?

Yes, you need to sharpen that axe  Daft question but it isn't some other mechanical issue that's causing binding is it (and the timing is just a red herring)?

[Sanjay F]

It feels a little like the engine wants to go but something is holding it back; it doesn't feel like friction. Unlike a steam engine, I'm somewhat lost in terms where and what next to try ........other than a blunt wooden axe 

[Sanjay F]

I have to hold my hands up at this point declare defeat ....................I've tried everything I can, and more importantly, that you guys have suggested and am not getting anywhere. I like to think I'm reasonably patient, but each tweak I'm doing is not progressing me any further 

I think its time to tidy it up put it on the shelf and move on unless there's anything else anyone can suggest......................so annoying! 

[Alyn Foundry]

This is one of the main reasons why I don’t have much of a fascination for steam engines. I like a challenge….

The timing IS hyper critical even a couple of degrees out and they will not run. I’ve watched your videos Sanjay and you will not get results with the hand torch flapping about the port, you need to create a fixture that securely supports it whilst you rotate the flywheel.

I did notice on several occasions in the latest video that a vacuum was being formed pulling the piston back so you just need to close the port a tad later in the cycle.

I do know first hand your feelings of frustration, been there and got a wardrobe full of Tee shirts….  I shelved little Nattie for nearly 20 years.

I have been trying to do some video for you but my current situation finds me physically lacking luckily my third Hand with be back from holiday later this coming week.

   Graham.

[Sanjay F]

Graham, your words have encouraged me to keep going. I'm going to take a break from it for a few weeks and finish off another engine and then I have to go away for work. I think the break will let me come at it with fresh eyes and enthusiam.............

[Zephyrin]

when you are turning slowly the engine by hand on test 5 and 7, when the valve is closed, you don't feel like you're fighting against the vacuum, no feeling of vacuum in the cylinder, or only in 1 or 2 occasions, which is mandatory for the function.

[Sanjay F]

Okay folks its back to the flame licker; I'll do another tear down, cleanup and reassemble and I've made this little hood which I've seen on a few of these engines. It must be there to keep hot air around the valve rather than sucking cold air in?

Anyway its going to be my 3rd attempt, so let's see..........

[Sanjay F]

As far as I'm concerned I'm calling it a runner, it may not be running smoothly or it may not run again, but it has run!!!

I'm not sure if its the designer 'hood' which was the success factor or maybe just taking it apart and cleaning it up ......whatever, I'll take it. Right let's give this a lick of paint and move onto pastures new! 

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6O7isO4akmY" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6O7isO4akmY</a>

[PaulR]

You got there!! Well done!! 

[Jasonb]

Good to see it finally running.

[Dave Otto]

Nice that you finally got there, good to see it going under its own power. 

Dave
 

[Michael S.]

Hello Sanjay, I didn't have any success with my flame eater at first either. But after a while, I tried again and it worked. And honestly, I don't know what the problem was.

Best regards, Michael

[Kim]

Well done, Sanjay!  Congratulations!   

Kim

[Admiral_dk]

Great to finally see it Run 

Per