Empire Model Number 32
The latest addition to the collection is an American engine. This was listed on ebay as an 'Empire Number 32
Model Steam Engine' and stamped on the underside of the base is 'Empire CAT #32'. The problem is that
there is very little information on the net about Empire engines. What i do know is that Empire's parent company
The Metal Ware Corporation of Twin Rivers, WI U.S.A. made model steam engines from about 1920 to the 1960s,
mainly from cast iron and brass but a few like this one from pressed sheet. The plugged holes at the end of the
boiler indicate that once this engine probably had a water sight glass. These pics were taken straight out of the box,
it needs a good clean and some repainting. The big question is whether the element is still working? Video here.
A couple of shots taken just after the successful heating element test. The element was open circuit but
fortunately it was easily repaired and there was steam coming from the holes in the top of the boiler.
This is it pretty much finished and just before it's first steaming. I know that the engine mount should be painted
red but after cleaning up such a wonderful piece of cast brass i couldn't bring myself to paint it! Video to follow.
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