Mamod TE1A Steam Traction Engine

Model steam enthusiasts will often reference the TE1A as a classic example of a model steam engine. Mamod have been producing this model and its variants for over 50 years. While older models used different fuel types, the modern versions use dry fuel tablets (as most model steam engines do), but it’s not unusual if you’re buying a second hand model to get one that’s several decades old. Indeed, these models can be passed down generations of families as collectors inherit them from parents and grandparents.

There are a number of different liveries available for this model. The Pickfords variant is very popular and tends to be a bit more expensive. It has a distinctive vivid blue and red colour scheme, whereas other models come in a green and red scheme or polished brass and silver.

The TE1A runs on fuel tablets (you’ll get some with the model if you buy it new, along with lubricant oil to help maintain the engine) – all you need to do is add water to the boiler. When the boiler is hot enough, the engine powers the gears and propels the model forward (top tip – use boiling water to fill up the tank so you don’t have to wait too long for it to heat up). Steam is vented through the chimney on top for added realism!

Modern models have a direction lever so you can reverse the direction of travel and steering rod to help you steer. The Mamod TE1A and it’s variants are top of our list of traction steam engines as they are simply classics.

A great purchase for a first time collector and if any seasoned enthusiasts don’t already have this model in their collection, it will be a welcome addition.

• Fuel type: Dry fuel tablets
• Dimensions: 270 x 137 x 178 mm
• Notable features: Lever to reverse the direction of travel, steerable, available with different livery