Another one of Rudy Kouhoupt’s larger projects, this is a model steam-powered traction engine built at a scale of 3/4”:1’. It was modeled after a prototype that burned oil instead of coal or wood. The miniature traction engine is on display towing a scale model water tank.

One of the first large donations to the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum was the collection of famed model engine builder Rudy Kouhoupt. After retiring as a chemist, Rudy had a second career building engines and writing magazine articles documenting the process. Many people have built his models, but we have the honor of displaying all of his original prototypes. Rudy’s collection includes scale model engines, locomotives, tractors and more. Additionally, thirteen of Rudy’s model steam engines are hooked up to run on compressed air to demonstrate their function. 

Exhibit added: November 16, 2023 - Last modified: February 5, 2024

Presented by The Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship