We know that time is your most valuable resource, which is why our mission is simple: we save you the countless hours it would take to create these masterpieces from scratch. Instead, we deliver you the thrill of assembly, the satisfaction of adding your own personal touches, and the pride of owning a piece of engineering history. With our kits, you’re not just building an engine – you’re building a bridge to the past, powered by your passion.
Each part from Steam Traction World is precision-engineered, fully machined, and ready for your final assembly, deburring, sanding, and painting. Our engines are designed for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship, with many available for purchase on a monthly basis over a fixed period, so you can ‘build as you buy.’ Every step of the process is an accomplishment, turning your efforts into a lasting tribute to the age of steam.
Completing and painting your engine isn’t just a project; it’s a statement. It’s a nod to the heritage that defines us and a future heirloom that can be cherished for generations. When you build with Steam Traction World, you’re not just creating an engine – you’re crafting a legacy.
Who are Steam Traction World?
Steam Traction World is a leading manufacturer of fully machined, large-scale steam traction engines in kit form. We provide enthusiasts with everything they need to build their own steam engine, preserving the heritage of steam while making it accessible to a global audience.
What type of engines do you offer?
We offer a range of steam traction engine, including agricultural engines, road locomotives, and steamrollers, all based on iconic designs from the golden age of British engineering. Our engines are available in various scales, such as 2″ (1/6th scale), 4″ (1/3rd scale) and 6″ (1/2 scale) to suit different levels of experience and space.
How do the kits work?
Our kits are delivered in a series of stages, with each kit containing all the components needed for that stage of assembly. The parts are fully machined and ready for you to assemble, paint, and personalise. We provide detailed instructions and colour images to guide you through every step of the process.
Do I need any special tools or engineering skills to build the engines?
All our engines come as ‘fully machined’ kits. We are the ‘old fashioned’ machinist, and you are the equivalent to the ‘fitter’. Each kit is designed to be assembled, with our support, using hand tools only, such as spanners, files, Allen keys etc. No machine tools (lathes, mills, welders for example) should be required as everything comes just requiring fettling, de-burring, hand finishing, final fitting and assembling, plus painting in your choice of livery.
We do recommend the use of portable hand held tools (like a drill, grinder, power file etc) to assist with fitting and speeding up the cleaning process but these are more to make the cleaning up quicker and easier than a necessity. All parts are supplied unpainted with any fasteners required are also supplied.
All our boilers come fully assembled and hydraulically tested to full British standards. Detailed and comprehensive assembly instructions and Isometric drawings are supplied with every kit plus we also offer a full telephone and email support service to all our customers.
How long does it take to complete an engine?
The time required to complete an engine varies depending on the scale and complexity of the engine, as well as your personal pace.
Depending on the complexity of the engine (or ancillary products) kits range from 2 to 36, with each kit typically requiring about 25 hours to complete. However, the process is designed to be enjoyable, allowing you to invest as much time as you like – putting in 30 hours per kit, for instance, can lead to noticeably enhanced results. The fastest completion time would be around 12 weeks from start to finish, if building all kits in succession.
Do you offer support during the build process?
Yes, we offer extensive support to our customers. Along with the detailed instructions included in each kit, we encourage you to join our Steam Traction World FORUM, where you can ask questions, share progress, and connect with other enthusiasts. Our team is also available to assist you directly with any questions or concerns.
Can I visit your manufacturing facility?
Our facility in Daventry, England, is a state-of-the-art engineering site where all our kits are designed and produced.
Interested in a particular engine? Why not see how it’s made!
If you’re considering one of our steam traction engines, why not take the next step and see the craftsmanship in person? Join us for an exclusive factory tour where you’ll witness first hand how your chosen engine is brought to life.
Meet the team, explore our manufacturing process, and get a closer look at the meticulous detail that goes into every Steam Traction World product.
How do I purchase an engine?
You can purchase our engines directly through our website. Many engines are available for purchase over a fixed period, with kits arriving at regular intervals. This approach allows you to ‘build as you buy,’ spreading out the cost and workload.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship our kits to steam enthusiasts all around the world. Shipping costs and times may vary depending on your location. Please contact us or check our website for more details on international shipping.
Can I purchase individual parts or replacement components?
Yes, we offer individual parts and replacement components for our engines. If you need a specific part or have damaged a component, please contact our customer service team, and we’ll assist you in getting the parts you need.
How can I stay updated on new releases and news from Steam Traction World?
To stay informed about our latest engines, events, and news, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media. We also post updates regularly on our Steam Traction World FORUM, where you can join discussions and stay connected with the community.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept a variety of payment methods, including major credit and debit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. For engines purchased over time, we offer flexible payment options to suit your needs.
