Welcome to the forum. One couid probably build a 2" scale traction engine with a Myford, but for 3" there would likely be a few parts (final drive gears and flywheel) that would be too large. I'm building 4" scale engines but my lathe will swing 18" in the gap. It is perfectly possible to build at least the smaller scale traction engines without a mill, but having a mill makes life a whole lot easier. Irrespective of the capability of the lathe for milling, having a separate mill avoids the need to set the lathe up time for milling, and then take it all apart again for turning.

Andrew

Hi Michael & welcome to the Forum. Many members have the Myford lathe of different models etc. The super 7 has a gap bed so technically you could swing up to 10" if using a backplate or fixture. But as said above it is only a small lathe. Hope to see some projects from you in the near future.

I have not ventured into steam as yet, but never say never i guess. Some members have made some stunning machinery. So you will have no shortage of help at hand.

Steve.

Hi Michael,

A Myford is big enough to make the majority of parts for a 2" or 3" traction engine. And you can get the others made elsewhere. I only have a 9" Southbend lathe (4.5" swing) and built a large model traction engine with a 10" dia boiler and 24" dia wheels. Join a club and you will find members who can help.

Paul.

Welcome to the Forum!

Since you plan to start by building a traction engine, presumably, you are familiar with machining techniques, and well equipped?

Whereabouts are you in East Northamptonshire?

If possible, join a M E Club. Peterborough S M E is getting back into its stride after been locked down for so long, and so will others, no doubt.

Howard