Buying a Steam Engine (or Vehicle)

Buying a Vehicle from Start to Finish

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Here at Marston we understand buying a steam engine or vintage vehicle (big or small) can be a daunting prospect. For many customers to purchase such a vehicle is the ambition of a lifetime that we can help to fulfil with our expertise. We will help you every step of the way from first discussing a vehicle with us over the phone right through to delivery or collection of your new purchase.

 

For those who are purchasing a miniature engine (generally 6" & Under) for the first time, we strongly recommend joining a local Model Engineers club/society. Here future boiler inspections can usually be done under the clubs own boiler inspector and you can gain further knowledge about your engine should you wish to know more. 

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Steam Today

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With the climate change talks, the movement away from fossil fuels, political unrest and becoming a net zero country by 2050 you may be asking yourself has steam got a future? It has been worrying of late, however it is unlikely that this will stop the preservation movement. As a whole, the industry annually injects over £700 million into the economy with heritage railways being the main contributor. Railways buy the bulk of coal and as a country will need to either import or mine coal to feed smelters to produce steel.

 

Merchants will still be able to import coal from other countries but this may be further afield, however we have witnessed encouraging signs developing new and sustainable fuels made up of olive seeds, molasses and other combinations which have proved encouraging to date. Our practices may have to change in the future, is it not unheard of for engine owners to install 'brick arches' within a firebox which can do two things; a) to preserve tubes and b) to increase fuel economy.

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Guaranteed Peace of Mind

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Along with our own expertise, we work closely with independent inspectors to ensure each engine or vehicle sold has a thorough check The aim of these checks is to put your mind at ease that the vehicle is to the standard we advertise it at. To the best of our knowledge we will list any work that maybe required to the vehicle. When viewing any engine, we strongly recommend you do bring your chosen boiler inspector with you. 

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Taking Delivery or Collection of a Vehicle

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Need a low loader? We can arrange delivery of your new vehicle using our trusted partners who have many years experience moving both steam and other vintage vehicles around the United Kingdom.