The Layman's Guide To Mamod Steam Engines (Black & White)

This book was interesting, but, I returned it as it did not suit my needs,

useful and overal good informative book

This is a great specialised book on Mamod engines. It gives a perspective on the bewildering array of the different models. The history is very good, showing which models were produced at which dates. There are some good tips on which models are best to restore as well as now to maintain them. It is a shame the book is not so thorough on how to restore engines, most of which is glossed over. So don’t expect to be able to restore an engine from the content of this book. For example it cites the case of the whistle on the boiler of a steam roller not unscrewing and it twisting on the boiler when unscrewing. This is the most common problem in restoration. The book does not tell you how to correct this. In fact you have to drill out the rivets in the firebox, and even have to cut off the whistle. Then you have to unsolder the boiler end cap, and finally pull out the whistle holding insert screw from inside the boiler. Hmmmm. However there is nothing to match this book for a new Mamod enthusiast and I can recommend it. And in particular I can recommend this seller, unmatched for price and delivery.

I bought this after looking around the author's website. I used to play around with Mamod engines long before I had children of my own and from what I remember I screwed a few of them up good and proper trying to "fix" them. Anyways I recently was bought a Steam Wagon as a gift from a flea market, and with two of my kids still at home we thought we would bring the thing up to working order.The book is laid out very clearly and logically and in such a way that you can pick it up and delve in anywhere for interesting reading. I especially like the the more advanced technical information, which is often set in separate text boxes so you don't have to wade through them if you don't want to.The author has included a lot of information that helps you avoid un-necessary work whilst still achieving the end result.As I home-educate my younger children this book has become an invaluable addition to our learning library, but it is in no way just for juniors or beginners. I'm 50 years old, and this book has given me the confidence to get stuck in and enjoy restoring and running my new acquisition. Hopefully the book will sell enough to merit a colour version at some point.Buy it!

Very informative and interesting. A credit to the author.Would have paid more for coloured photos which I believe would attract a wider audience.

Even thought the book is printed in black and white, it is very informative.I was starting out in the restoration of these steam engines and found very helpful information.Worth a read.

Obviously written by a true fanatic. It's got a lot of detail and history in, though not the most professional text. Would recommend for anyone restoring or even just pondering about their Mamod.

good book