FEATURE MODEL: March 2011 Tinkerbell
Tinkerbell - a 7 1/4 gauge Freelance loco built by Phil Bellaney
Tinkerbell is based on the design by Roger Marsh from the UK. Roger set out to build the smallest 7 1/4 loco where the driver sits in the loco rather than on a tender behind. The original was built in 1968 and is still in service today at the Moors Valley Railway in Dorset. Many have been built over the years, and Phil's is a fine example.
Phil's Tinkerbell was completed in November 2010 just before the CSMEE Exhibition. Alan Stokes started construction and Phil estimates he completed about 75% before Phil took over and completed the model.
Phil reports that having a roof over your head can be a real advantage but on a warm day having your legs so close to the firebox makes for a hot time. A further benefit of this style of locomotive is that they have generous power output. When you have a ride behind Phil's Tinkerbell you will see this in action.
Some statistics:
Length 66 ins Width 26 ins Height 46ins
Grate area 66 sq ins Coal capacity 20 lbs
Boiler diameter 12.75 ins Water capacity 5 gallons
No of tubes 16 x 0.75 ins plus 4 x 1.25 ins
Boiler pressure 100 psi (although Phil reports he usually only operates at 80 psi)
Cylinder bore 2.5 ins Stroke 4.25 ins Valve gear Heywood
