Description
Wilesco D405 Steam Traction Engine
The Wilesco D405 Steam Traction Engine can move forwards and backwards, with a flywheel that can be started in either rotational direction. The boiler has a diameter of 45 mm and a length of 185 mm, capable of holding 230 cm³.
The brass boiler has been polished and nickel-plated to a high gloss. The accompanying water level gauge is designed as a show glass and invites you to take a closer look at the process in the steam engine.
The tractor has chain steering and a transmission clutch. The detachable geared transmission allows the mobile steam engine to be used as a stationary one as well.
What’s Included with the Wilesco D405?
The Wilesco D405 is supplied ready for operation and includes the items required to get started.
The box includes:
- The D405 live steam traction engine
- Water filler
- Steam oil
- Gel burner tray
- Wilesco fuel gel
- Operating instructions.
About the Wilesco D405 Steam Traction Engine
The Wilesco D405 is a fully operational model steam traction engine based on the agricultural traction engines used during the 19th century. The model features Wilesco’s characteristic long roof, two separate front wheels and a working chimney, recreating the appearance and operation of a traditional steam traction engine in a compact display model.
The D405 is designed to be more than a static model. Once the boiler has been filled with water and the burner lit, steam pressure powers the double-action cylinder and flywheel. The traction engine can travel forwards or backwards and can also be used as a stationary steam engine by engaging the transmission.
The 45 mm diameter boiler has a length of 185 mm and a capacity of approximately 230 cm³. The polished and nickel-plated brass boiler gives the D405 its distinctive appearance, while the water level gauge allows the water level inside the boiler to be monitored during operation.
The D405 also features chain steering, a transmission clutch, steam regulator, steam whistle, steam jet oiler and an 80 mm flywheel with grooved pulley. The detachable geared transmission makes it possible to use the engine for driving suitable accessories when operated as a stationary steam engine.
Operating the Wilesco D405
The Wilesco D405 can be operated as a mobile steam traction engine or as a stationary steam engine. Once the boiler has been filled with water and the burner is lit, steam pressure builds within the boiler and powers the double-action cylinder and flywheel.
The D405 features a reversible drive, allowing the traction engine to travel forwards or backwards. The chain steering system operates the front wheels, while the transmission clutch and detachable geared transmission allow the engine to be used for driving suitable accessories when operating in stationary mode.
The water level gauge provides a convenient way to monitor the water level during operation. The steam regulator can be used to control the engine, while the steam whistle and other working features add to the experience of operating this traditional-style steam traction engine.
Wilesco D405 Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Wilesco Product Number | 00405 |
| Length | 300 mm |
| Width | 150 mm |
| Height | 200 mm |
| Weight | 1.72 kg |
| Boiler Diameter | 45 mm |
| Boiler Length | 185 mm |
| Boiler Capacity | 230 cm³ |
| Flywheel Diameter | 80 mm |
| Performance Rating | 5 |
| Fuel | Wilesco Fuel Gel |
| Approximate Runtime | 15 minutes |
| Operation | Mobile or stationary |
| Drive | Forward and reverse |
| Steering | Chain steering |
Wilesco D405 Accessories
Wilesco Water Cart A385
The Wilesco Water Cart A385 is a detailed model accessory designed for use with Wilesco D365 mobile steam engines and D405 traction engines. Featuring a silver-coloured brass water tank with a drain valve, durable zinc die-cast spoke wheels and an easy hook-in coupling, the water cart allows water to be transported alongside the steam engine while adding an authentic, traditional appearance to the model.
View the Water Cart accessory for the Wilesco D405 here
Wilesco Traction Engine Crane Attachment
The Wilesco D405 Crane Extension is a detailed accessory that adds a functional crane to Wilesco traction engines, including both kits and assembled models. Attached to the front axle, the crane replicates the features of the crane fitted to the D405/1 and provides an authentic, practical addition to the model. It is supplied as Wilesco part number Z400 and includes fitting instructions.
View the Wilesco D405 Crane Extension here
BIX 028 Spirit Burner for Wilesco Traction Engines
The BIX 028 Methylated Spirit Burner is a precision-made brass burner designed for use with Wilesco and other compatible model steam engines. Using methylated spirits, it provides a simple and consistent source of heat for reliable engine operation. Available in two sizes to suit different Wilesco models, it is ideal as a replacement burner, spare or for restoring and maintaining a model steam engine.
View the BIX 028 Methylated Spirit Burner here
Wilesco D405 Spare Parts and Maintenance
Forest Classics supplies a range of Wilesco spare parts and accessories to help keep your D405 operating correctly. Replacement and maintenance items are available for many components of Wilesco traction engines, including steering, wheels, drive components, burners and other working parts.
If you need a replacement part for your D405 and cannot find what you are looking for, please contact us and we can help identify the correct Wilesco part.
Convert to gas power with BIX
Now available with BIX 011 gas conversion set at a special price of £363.99 (this would be £381.99 if bought separately).
For even greater savings buy the set plus BIX 019 refill adapter for £380.79 (bought separately total cost £402.98).
No modifications to engine required, and comes with full operating instructions. You still get the original gel fuel burner tray.
This BIX 011 kit fits all Wilesco traction engines and Rollers with no modifications required to the engines.
D405 vs D405/1
The Wilesco D405 and D405/1 are two different versions of Wilesco’s steam traction engine. The D405 is the standard blue traction engine, while the D405/1 is the crane-equipped version. If you are looking specifically for the standard blue Wilesco traction engine without the factory-fitted crane, this page is for the D405 (product number 00405).
The Wilesco D405 is the standard blue traction engine with the long roof and traditional traction-engine configuration.
The Wilesco D405/1 is the crane-equipped version, with a short roof, different colour scheme, tyres and a working crane mounted to the front axle.
D405, D405/1 & D405/2 at a glance
| Model | Colour | Crane | Product Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| D405 | Blue | No | 00405 |
| D405/1 | Black & green | Yes | 00405/1 |
| D405/2 | Black & green | No | 00405/2 |
Wilesco D405 Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Wilesco D405 a working steam engine?
Yes, the Wilesco D405 is a fully working live steam engine.
What fuel does the Wilesco D405 use?
The Wilesco D405 comes with a bottle of Wilesco fuel gel, and you have the option to use a BIX 028 methylated spirit burner or a BIX 011 gas conversion.
Can the Wilesco D405 move forwards and backwards?
Yes. The Wilesco D405 traction engine can move both forwards and backwards. It has a reversible drive, allowing the direction of travel to be changed while the engine is running. The model can therefore be driven in either direction, making it particularly realistic and versatile as a working steam model.
Can the Wilesco D405 be used as a stationary engine?
Yes. The Wilesco D405 traction engine can be used as a stationary engine. When the engine is not being driven, its steam power can be used to operate compatible accessories, such as a generator or other Wilesco machinery, via the flywheel and drive pulley. This makes the D405 suitable for both mobile traction-engine operation and stationary demonstrations.
What is the Wilesco D405 product number?
The Wilesco product number is 00405.
What is the difference between the Wilesco D405 and D405/1?
The Wilesco D405 is the standard blue traction engine, while the D405/1 is the crane-equipped version. The D405/1 has a shorter roof, a different colour scheme and rubber tyres, as well as the front-mounted crane.
Can a crane be fitted to the Wilesco D405?
What accessories are available for the Wilesco D405?
A range of accessories is available for the Wilesco D405 traction engine, allowing you to enhance its appearance, functionality and display. These include the D405 Crane Extension, which adds the front-mounted crane found on the D405/1, as well as water carts for transporting water alongside the engine. Other compatible Wilesco accessories, such as generators, lighting sets and working machinery, can also be powered by the D405, making it possible to create a more complete working steam setup.
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