Full-Size Steam
PrintNEW PRICE Wallis & Steevens 3-ton Steam Tractor No. 2758 of 1904
| Manufacturer | Wallis & Steevens |
| Model | 3-ton Steam Tractor |
| Country of Origin | UK |
| Works No. | 2758 |
| Year Built | 1904 |
| Gears | 2-speed |
| Condition | Excellent, working order |
| Asking Price | £99,000 |
Offered for sale on behalf of the owner, the chance to own a Wallis & Steevens 3-ton tractor! Built originally for Pickfords (as their No. 14), it was used originally around London for pulling horse vans.
No 2658 was built in 1904 for Pickfords. It is believed to be one of seven survivors of this design and has a remarkable history. Whilst originally a tractor used for pulling horse vans, it was returned to Wallis in 1920 to be converted into a steam roller for Blands of Gosforth. It was later acquired by Jack Wakefield in the 1950s before being reverted to a tractor in the early 1970s using mismatched parts. Tom Varley sold it in the late 1970s, at which point it was shipped to Japan.
After spending several decades in Japan, the boiler was failed, and the engine was sold and shipping back to the UK before being bought within the UK by the present owner in 2002. This started a big turning point in No 2658’s life as efforts were now made to return it to a more original looking tractor. The present owner acquired a largely complete set of works drawings from MERL, Reading and used these to make and replace missing or poorly made parts from that 1970s build. The owner also measured up from another survivor, such as an example in the Netherlands which had the only surviving patent starting gear.
As part of the rebuild, it was found that virtually the entire boiler needed replacement. This resulted in needing a new barrel, firebox, hornplates, tubeplate, throatplate and backhead. Sam Ward of Killamarsh made the rivetted replacement boiler shell in 2009; the firebox and stays are welded. The rebuild was extensive and included new, fabricated rear wheels, the cylinder being rebored, new castings such as the perch bracket and much more. The patterns were made by John Hazlehurst Patternmakers.
Efforts were made throughout the restoration to aim for a likeness to the original drawings with even details such as the drivers seat, brake gear and motion covers being a true likeness to the original. It is now fitted with the patent starting gear and a smokebox damper. The chimney top was spun by Hopkins of Loughborough and, more recently, a welded stainless stell chimney has been fitted. Finished in the superb, original ‘Pickford Blue’ colour scheme shown today, it was certainly a huge project which has resulted in a very pleasant steam tractor. The registration is the original number which the owner has managed to obtain from the DVLA.
The latest hydraulic test was conducted in 2019 and reports prove that it is very good order, as would be expected of a boiler rebuilt only 16 years ago. 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. It is fitted with a Penberthy and a Buffalo injector – both are reliable. It is a fun engine to drive being free steaming and described as lively. It is two-speed with a single cylinder and has a top speed of around 4mph.
Overall, a charming steam tractor restored to a high standard and with a great story to tell.
New Asking Price – £99,000
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.
This traction engine is based with the owner. For the sake of logistics, prospective buyers should expect to travel to the East Midlands (England) for viewings. We ask that all viewings are booked in advance by giving us a call on 01392 833301.
Please ask about our flexible part-exchange options. Delivery can be arranged to anywhere in the UK, and beyond, at buyer’s expense.
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.
