steam engins

[Lancashire Lad]

Theres no harm in looking at what Preston Services have to offer, at least it offers a good idea of a bench mark price wise. I suggest you take the time too look around and see what takes your fancy, then if there something inparticular that does, either find something identical or similar. There are plenty of engines in need of a restoration, its just finding the right one which you want to dedicate the time to!

[Al the Steam]

The families Marshall TE came through a classified advert being spotted in Farmers Weekly, admittedly that was in 1998. But Farmers Weekly, Worlds Fair, Old Glory. are worth a look, don't despair things do come up for sale, but admittedly nowadays theres not so many bargains.

As for dealers they are not all bad, we went and looked at a set of Gallopers and Davey Paxman TE that Prestons had for sale, didn't get them in the end, but made very welcome, and shown around so when the lottery win arrives I won't hesitate to go there and splash the cash!

~Alex~

[windmiller78]

Here here well said Joe.
I notice he's/ she's hidden their name! i may not say something folks like but i'll put my name to it.

[b6 Fowler]

I have only met M.L.B the once and that was when we went to his place to have a look at some whistles he had.
He was more than helpful ,got one of his chaps to connect the whistles to an air line so we could get some idea of what they were like etc.
We bought a whistle ,and i can only say we were treated in a most business like and professional way.
So for some one to make derogatory remarks on M.L.B and they have most likely never met him is out of order,which onc eagain brings up the old chestnut of members of this site not having ANY details in the profile at all.
Makes me wonder what they have to hide ?
or do they not give details so they can purely come in here to stir things up with stupid remarks ?

[UJ2225]

Preston Services have lots of portables for sale which I understand are reasonably priced. perhaps one of those might be an ideal 1st project?

Good luck with finding in engine.

JIm S

[hertfordshire boy]

If it wasn't for Michael there may be a few of his restoration projects that would have been scrapped. A very pleasent and helpfully chap on the couple of occassions i have spoken to him.

Matt

[The Melter]

I have bought small stuff from MLB before and would do again without hesitation if he had what i wanted.

The Melter

[craigctt]

Theres nothing wrong with a man making money, after all thats why he is in buisiness.

[Vern]

Viv and I called at Prestons in January, by prior appointment and declared our interest was strictly window shopping at that time. MLB was very ill but still substituted his more than capable Son to look after us. If you take out the few engines that are on brokerage, there is a phenomenal amount of money sat there and until or unless something sells, there is no return. Do some homework on what has fetched what sort of price recently and if you are serious, make an appointment and go- it's the candy store of the road steam world! We will soon be in the market for an engine for a specific job and will not hesitate to deal with MLB if the right choice for us is in stock. Vern.

[Steaming North]

Sorry for my little rant, but by the reponse since it seems I was not out of order.

To bring the subject back for...(the original poster, sorry I've forgotten who), if you're serious. Prestons are a good place to start (plenty of possible engines and also a good gauge as for prices). As someone else said, a portable may well be a good first project and as I am started to think more recently very much underated/unappreciated.

Anyway, to the original poster, I hope this may help you.

Please read the post/statement by the NTET regarding "Interested in buying an engine". Although I have never bought an engine, the advice would appear to be...go in with your eyes open, keep your hands in your pocket and don't let your heart run away with you whilst your brain is still trying to catch up.

All the best,

Joe