Large Scale Central

Steaming in the garden in the cool days of Fall

Electronics Live Steam
#1

The thought just occured to me;
When steaming at this time of year up here in the North, the water in the boilers is usuallt cold and it takes that much more fuel and time to raise steam.
Next time the guys steam up here; I’ll fill up my 40 cup perculator, with good distilled water, and they can use it as a supply of hot water for their locos.
It won’t hurt the perculator, as it has a spiget at it’s base and the water can be drawn out into a bowl, for use. The perculator, after reaching boiling temperature, maintains that temperature for as long as it’s plugged in.

It I put it trackside; the perculator will look like a modern design in water towers…!!!

Around here the guys use a Propane/Butane mix that seems to fire very well in cold temperatures, although one person was just suggesting a two way valve with a quick disconnect; where a person could start the firing with a Propane cylinder, and then convert over to the tender tank of Butane/Propane mix, disconnecting the Propane before relighting with the mix.

#2

Who bottles the mix and who carries it??? I looked on Coleman, Jasper and Fire King sites and can’t seem to find it.
Any help will be appreciated. Nick Jr

#3

We get the “Mix” at outlets that supply the “Camping”, and outdoor trade…

#4
Fred Mills said:
The thought just occured to me; When steaming at this time of year up here in the North, the water in the boilers is usuallt cold and it takes that much more fuel and time to raise steam. Next time the guys steam up here; I'll fill up my 40 cup perculator, with good distilled water, and they can use it as a supply of hot water for their locos. It won't hurt the perculator, as it has a spiget at it's base and the water can be drawn out into a bowl, for use. The perculator, after reaching boiling temperature, maintains that temperature for as long as it's plugged in.

It I put it trackside; the perculator will look like a modern design in water towers…!!!

Around here the guys use a Propane/Butane mix that seems to fire very well in cold temperatures, although one person was just suggesting a two way valve with a quick disconnect; where a person could start the firing with a Propane cylinder, and then convert over to the tender tank of Butane/Propane mix, disconnecting the Propane before relighting with the mix.


Fred,

If the temp is below 40 degrees, people use a thermos to keep water closer to boiling temp before putting it in the steamer. I think your idea sounds great.

#5

I get a 30/70 Coleman mix from Cross Creek Engineering, Bob Pennock. Nice guy to deal with. Problem is, you have a Hazmat fee on top of the price, so if you can find it locally you are better off. Some Walmarts carry it, alas mine does not.

Jerry