This interesting engine represents somewhat of a mystery while demonstrating exactly the situation that the Joe Martin Foundation is trying to avoid. These engines were given to Joe Kunkler, of Vista, CA in a box of items that failed to sell at an estate sale. No data about the builder was provided with the engines, so we may never know who built them.
The engine is a horizontal steam engine with an overdriven geared flywheel. Originally covered, after Tom Boyer restored the engine, we decided to expose the flywheel so observers could see how it works. The engine is reversible by means of a lever. The original very crude castings were a puzzling contrast to the skill with which many of the other parts were made. The Foundation’s shop craftsman, Mr. Boyer did a lot of work re-machining and sandblasting the basic castings to do justice to the rest of the engine. A new oak base was also constructed.
