Full-Size Steam

Offered for sale, on behalf of the estate of the late Michael Davies, is the impressive and well-respected Fowler A7 Road Locomotive No. 13141 ‘Jo’.

No. 13141 is reported as having been supplied new on 26^th September 1913 to Herbert M. Thorpe of Marpledurwell, near Basingstoke, Hampshire as a compound road locomotive on hind and front springs. Mr Thorpe was a contractor who offered steam ploughing, haulage and threshing services and there is a photograph in circulation of it on hire to Worth & Way of Salisbury in 1917 being used for haulage, at which point 13141 was known as ‘Florence’.

Mr Thorpe passed away in 1942, at which point the engine was sold at auction. We understand it likely sold to Thurlows of Stowmarket who hired it out to the Hampshire War Agricultural Executive Committee during the Second World War. The Committee was one of many set up to maximise agricultural output from British farmers during both World Wars so their use of 13141 during that time suggests it was possibly used in an agricultural setting.

Following the War, 13141 was purchased by Cuthbert & Sons of Grenoside, Sheffield. Cuthbert & Sons used the engine for threshing and removed the belly tanks, along with many other road locomotive fittings, to make it more suitable for working on the belt. It was later sold at auction to E. W. Freeman of Banbury in c.1984 before eventually being sold to the long-term owner M. O. Davies of Avon Dassett, Warwickshire in 1986. From the records, it looks as if ownership passed from Mr Freeman to Mr Davies in a part-finished state meaning both owners played a part in the significant restoration during the 1980s.

Between 1984 and 1986, reputable boilermakers AG Bicknell conducted significant works including a new, welded firebox and lower front section of the boiler barrel. During this time, it also had a new front tubeplate, new smokebox, new belly tanks (photos of the 1980s auction show them missing following Cuthbert’s ownership), tender repairs, new brakes, new chimney and base, new third gears, new main bearings and more.

Since that rebuild, Mr Davies spent a long ownership continuing to maintain 13141 to a high standard. We understand it has had a new crankshaft at some point, alongside one of the later jobs being a new handcrafted American white ash canopy in 2014. Outside of the documented work, it is evident that 13141 has been a well-maintained road locomotive which has been looked after over the years. ‘Jo’ has been rallied regularly becoming a well-known part of the preservation scene, under Michael’s ownership.

As with any regularly enjoyed steam engine, the latest boiler reports suggest that the work conducted 40 years ago is due for renewal. The report advises the firebox, throatplate and back head have limited service remaining and may last until hydraulic expiry in 2027, subject to an annual examination. This future work has been considered in the guide price for 13141. The latest report expires on 16^th April 2025. As with any traction engine or locomotive purchase, we always encourage prospective buyers seek the services of an independent inspector to review the boiler to satisfy themselves of the condition prior to purchase.

Aside from the upcoming boiler overhaul, 13141 presents as a very appealing 7NHP Road Locomotive. It drives nicely being docile but clearly powerful. It is to typical road locomotive specification including being sprung front and rear with a compound cylinder block and three-speeds. Most of the paintwork looks to have been applied at the last major overhaul and has fared well. It polishes nicely giving that characterful feel of a much-loved traction engine – it is not perfect but is certainly charming.

Additionally, ‘Jo’ is fitted with a J. Stone & Co. Ltd steam generator on the offside belly tank. This appears to be in working order. It is fitted with a very effective ‘Metcalfe’ injector and crank driven water pump. Rubber tyres are fitted to all wheels with the rear being treaded tyres for better grip on softer ground. Included in the sale is a set of sheets, firing irons and a folder of paperwork outlining 13141’s history and previous boiler tests.

Overall, this sale gives the buyer the opportunity to purchase a delightful road locomotive with a good history and, following required works, potential for many years of enjoyment.

Guide Price – £295,000

We always encourage prospective buyers to view vehicles and steam engines in person prior to purchase. This engine is advertised for sale by Berrybrook Steam & Classics on behalf of the owner and seller.

We ask that all viewings are booked in advance by giving us a call on 01392 833301.

Fowler No. 13141 is located at our premises near Exeter, Devon for viewings and inspections.

Delivery can be arranged to anywhere in the UK, and beyond, at buyer’s expense.

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The Company (Berrybrook Steam & Classics, trading name of Berrybrook Motors Ltd) offers the above details of this vehicle in good faith but cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vehicle. A buyer should instruct their agents, surveyors or inspectors to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated.