This project, undertaken by Richard Day of North Scarle near Lincoln, has involved the complete restoration from an incomplete, derelict wreck of a very rare engine, which spent its working life in Tasmania. Marshall Light Traction engines were made for export and were single speed engines, with a flywheel clutch, designed for direct traction ploughing and had unusual feed water heaters to raise overall thermal efficiency. This engine was the last one exported to Australia, from where it was then transferred to the Cheshunt Estate in Tasmania. It has all the available extras offered by Marshalls. It is a very rare, possibly unique, survivor in that it is a two speed engine with the second speed pinion taking the place of the clutch. The engine returned to the UK around 2007, but restoration did not start until 2016, and has been virtually continuous ever since. Everything apart from the boiler rebuild and pattern making has been done by the owner, including all the machining and fitting. Numerous sub-assemblies have been manufactured from Gainsborough Heritage drawings, including the complete rear man stand, winding drum support and drive, swivelling winch pulley and boiler fittings. The single cylinder engine had a broken trunk guide, so a new one was cast and professionally welded to the original bed plate. The engine is currently in final stages of reassembly. This is a unique traction engine that has been saved from the scrap man and brought back to life. Once complete, the intention is to work the engine to demonstrate threshing and chaff cutting and eventually, once Richard has made a suitable plough, direct traction ploughing. A worthy award winner.
