Unique design has no valves! - Easy to build gift idea!

Please note that this is a kit for hobby machinists.  It cannot be built without machining equipment.

This item is a kit containing the plans and all the metal stock and screws needed to machine the "Thimble" steam engine by Liney Machine. There are NO ready to assemble parts.  You will need a lathe and either a z axis on your lathe or a mill to make this design.

We also sell just the plans.

We make many steam engines here at Liney Machine and this is the one that everyone wants to play with when they see it.  You can get it running at several hundred RPM just by blowing into it with your mouth.  The Thimble does not have any valves like a normal steam engine.  Instead the .02 inch thick piston tips sideways on the return stroke allowing the steam or air to blow by.  This results in very little friction and amazing speed (We have had one up to 10,000 rpm!). You will be amazed by how well this design works and the small amount of pressure required to run.  

The flywheel is only 1.25' in diameter and the bore is 3/8"

It is a very simple project.  If you are expierienced you can make it in an afternoon.  If you are just learning, it is the perfect way to start. 

The designs are two printed pages.  They are CAD drawn with clear easy to read dimensions.  Please bear in mind that these are technical drawings, not machining how-to instructions.  There are often many viable approaches to making a part.  That challenge is left up to you.

The following materials are included:

1.5" of 1/2" inch brass square

2" of 3/8" brass round rod

.5" of 3/16" brass round rod

1.5" of 1/4" brass round rod

1" of 1-1/4" aluminum round bar

a 1/16 x 5/16 steel dowel pin

a 1/4" long 2-56 flat head screw

a 1" 4-40 fillister head screw