What the D365 actually is

Unlike Wilesco’s purely stationary engines, the D365 is designed to do two jobs:

• Mobile: drives itself forwards or backwards.

• Stationary: the drive can be disengaged so the engine can power Wilesco accessories/Drive models through its transmission.

The model has a 230 cm³ boiler, 80 mm flywheel, chain steering and a transmission clutch. Wilesco rates its performance at 5.

The standard D365 measures approximately 320 × 150 × 200 mm and weighs 1.9 kg.

D365 variants at a glance

The important point is that D365, D366 and D368 are fundamentally the same type of steam roller. The major differences are finish, weight and market/collector positioning rather than a fundamentally different engine design. The kits D375 and D376 are the corresponding build-it-yourself versions.

The standard D365 – The one to buy for most people

Wilesco D365 Old Smoky

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE D365 PRICE ON THE PRODUCT PAGE

Finish: traditional red/green
Construction: factory assembled
Fuel: WITABS dry fuel. Gel fuel is supplied for UK buyers due to regulations, with Forest Classics offering the option to upgrade to gas or methylated spirit burners.
Boiler: 230 cm³
Flywheel: 80 mm
Dimensions: 320 × 150 × 200 mm
Weight: 1.9 kg
Performance rating: 5
Operation: mobile and stationary
Steering: chain
Drive: reversible
Typical running time: approximately 15 minutes per Wilesco WITABS charge. Upto 35 minutes with a Bix gas conversion kit.

The D365 is the reference model for the entire Old Smoky family. If you want the classic Wilesco steam roller rather than a particular collector finish or a construction project, this is the model to choose.

It comes assembled and ready to operate after filling the boiler, preparing the fuel and carrying out the normal lubrication/start-up procedure. The supplied equipment includes two WITABS fuel tablets (A bottle of fuel Gel and a gel burner slide in the UK), filling funnel, tightening key and operating instructions.

Why the D365 is the sensible default

The standard D365 has three advantages over the more expensive finishes:

1. Lowest purchase price among the current assembled Old Smoky variants.

2. Lowest weight.

3. The classic 1960s colour scheme.

There is no meaningful performance reason to spend more on the D366 or D368. Buy those because you prefer their appearance or want a particular collector version.

Wilesco D366 black and brass

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE d366 PRICE ON THE PRODUCT PAGE

What changes?

The D366 is the black/brass version of the Old Smoky.

Mechanically it retains the same basic arrangement:

• 230 cm³ boiler

• 80 mm flywheel

• reversible drive

• chain steering

• transmission clutch

• mobile/stationary operation

• approximately 15-minute running time

Its dimensions are also 320 × 150 × 200 mm, but its listed weight is 2.6 kg, compared with 1.9 kg for the D365.

The principal reason to buy a D366 is therefore appearance, not additional power.

D366 advantages

• More elaborate black/brass appearance.

• Brass detailing makes it particularly attractive as a display model.

• Heavier than the standard D365.

• Same basic operating capability as the D365.

• Particularly suited to collectors who want something different from the traditional red/green model.

D366 disadvantages

• Significantly more expensive than D365.

• No corresponding increase in rated performance.

• The extra money primarily buys the finish.

Verdict: choose the D366 if you prefer the black/brass appearance. Do not buy it expecting a more powerful steam roller.

Wilesco D368 – black and nickel

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE d368 PRICE ON THE PRODUCT PAGE

The D368 is the black/nickel version.

It retains the same basic mechanical specification as the D365/D366 family:

• 230 cm³ boiler

• 80 mm flywheel

• reversible drive

• chain steering

• stationary/mobile operation

• approximately 15-minute running time

The listed dimensions remain 320 × 150 × 200 mm, while weight rises to 2.4 kg. Our current price is £348.99, making it the most expensive regular assembled Old Smoky variant.

Why buy a D368?

The D368 makes the most sense when the engine is being purchased primarily as a collector’s model.

The black/nickel finish gives it a noticeably different character from the brightly coloured D365 and brass-heavy D366.

Important point

There is no performance upgrade over the D365. The premium is for finish, presentation and collectability.

The D368 is also particularly relevant to buyers looking at older examples because Wilesco specifically identifies the black/nickel model as a collector item.

Wilesco D375 – the D365, but as a build your own kit

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE D375 PRICE ON THE PRODUCT PAGE

The D375 is the kit version of the traditional red/green Old Smoky.

It is not a different engine concept. It is essentially the Old Smoky supplied for assembly rather than ready assembled.

Specification

• Red/green finish

• 230 cm³ boiler

• 80 mm flywheel

• 320 × 150 × 200 mm

• 2.6 kg

• Performance rating: 5

• Mobile and stationary operation

• Chain steering

• Reversible drive

• Approximately 15 minutes’ operation

• Approximately 3–4 hours assembly time

What you are actually buying

The main attraction is building the engine yourself.

Wilesco supplies an illustrated assembly manual and states that the kit is suitable even for inexperienced steam-model builders. The manufacturer recommends completing the assembly without long interruptions.

Wilesco D375 vs D365

The D375 is the better choice if the construction process is part of the hobby. The D365 is better if you primarily want to steam the model.

Wilesco D376 – black/brass kit

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE D376 PRICE ON THE PRODUCT PAGE

The D376 combines the black/brass appearance of the D366 with the build-it-yourself format.

It is therefore effectively:

D366 appearance + kit construction.

The D376 weighs approximately 3.04 kg and measures 320 × 250 × 200 mm according to Wilesco’s current listing. Wilesco specifies an approximately 3–4 hour assembly time.

Buy the D376 if:

• you specifically want black/brass;

• you enjoy model engineering;

• assembly is part of the appeal;

• you want a more substantial collector/build project.

Do not buy it if:

• you simply want the cheapest route into an Old Smoky;

• you dislike assembly;

• you expect additional power over the D365.

The mechanical specification is fundamentally the same Old Smoky concept.

Wilesco D365/60 – 60th Anniversary Edition

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE D365/60 PRICE ON THE PRODUCT PAGE

The D365/60 is the significant collector variant for 2026.

Wilesco introduced it to mark 60 years of the steam roller, 1966–2026. It uses a distinctive blue, black and red colour scheme, special anniversary nameplates and is limited to 160 examples worldwide. Each model receives a numbered certificate. Our current price is £433.99

This is a fundamentally different buying proposition from the normal D365.

D365/60 makes sense if:

• you collect Wilesco engines;

• limited production numbers matter to you;

• you want a 2026-specific commemorative model;

• long-term collectability is more important than lowest cost.

D365/60 does not make sense if:

• you simply want to operate an Old Smoky;

• you are buying your first Wilesco;

• you want the best performance-per-pound/euro.

The standard D365 provides the actual Old Smoky experience for considerably less money.

What all the Old Smoky versions have in common

The core engineering is remarkably consistent.

230 cm³ boiler

The Old Smoky’s boiler holds approximately 230 cm³. This is enough for the engine’s intended combination of mobile running and stationary accessory work.

Do not interpret the 230 cm³ capacity as a specification comparable with a full-size steam engine. These are model steam engines, and operating time depends on fuel, load, water level, running speed and conditions.

Reversible drive

The flywheel can be started in either direction. This allows the roller to run forwards or backwards.

That is an important advantage over many simple stationary steam models.

Chain steering

The front roller is controlled using the model’s steering chain. This is both functional and visually important because it reproduces the steering arrangement associated with a traditional road roller.

Mobile and stationary operation

The transmission clutch allows the engine to be operated as a stationary power source. This means you can use it to drive compatible Wilesco accessories/models rather than simply watching it move around.

This dual-purpose capability is one of the strongest reasons to choose an Old Smoky over a purely stationary Wilesco.

Authentic smoke effect

The chimney produces the characteristic visible steam/smoke effect during operation. It is one of the defining visual features of the Old Smoky.

Fuel: WITABS vs gel, and alternative fuels

This is one area where buyers need to pay attention to the exact version being purchased.

Wilesco’s current listings offer the Old Smoky models in versions using WITABS dry fuel, while the manufacturer also identifies gel fuel export versions.

The standard D365 listing specifies approximately 15 minutes’ running time with a charge of original WITABS. Wilesco notes that other dry fuel brands may give somewhat shorter operating times.

Buying advice

If buying new:

• check the exact fuel configuration before ordering;

• make sure you can obtain the appropriate fuel in your country;

• do not assume every D365-family engine uses exactly the same fuel setup;

• budget for fuel if you intend to run the engine regularly.

The manufacturer’s export versions are explicitly marked as such and may have different certification/status from the versions intended for its domestic market.

Alternative fuels

Our alternative fuels offer cleaning burning, less cleanup, longer running times, and cheaper fuel sources.

When buying the model from Forest Classics, you will have the option of upgrading to a BIX gas conversion kit, or you can find the Bix 028 methylated spirit burner in our shop. Both of these options will give better performance than the gel alternative, but which one you choose will depend on your budget and experience. 

What accessories can the D365 and its variants run?

The D365 is not just a self-propelled model.

Its transmission allows it to drive Wilesco accessories and other compatible driven models while stationary.

Wilesco’s general guidance is that when a steam engine drives propulsion models, the combined star rating of the driven models should not exceed the star rating of the steam engine. The D365 is rated at 5.

This matters if your goal is to build a complete Wilesco steam layout.

Check out Wilescos drive models by clicking here.

Their fairground drive models by clicking here.

And their steam driven model workmen by clicking here.

If you want a display only roller:

You do not need to worry much about the accessory-driving capability.

If you want a steam-powered fairground/workshop layout:

The D365’s stationary drive becomes much more important, and you should choose accessories according to the engine’s available power rather than simply buying whatever looks attractive.

Buying a used Wilesco D365 steam engine

A used Old Smoky can be an excellent purchase, but condition matters more than the colour.

The D365 has been around for decades, so second-hand examples can differ substantially in age, specification and condition.

Inspect the boiler first

This is the single most important component.

Look for:

• corrosion;

• dents;

• damaged fittings;

• damaged sight glass;

• damaged safety valve;

• evidence of leaking;

• excessive scale;

• amateur repairs;

• soldering or brazing repairs;

• missing fittings.

A dirty engine can be cleaned.

A seriously compromised boiler is a much bigger problem.

Wilesco currently lists replacement boilers for the D365/D368 family, which is a useful indication that the boiler is a serviceable replacement component rather than an inherently disposable part.

Check the safety valve

Do not operate a used steam engine simply because it appears mechanically complete.

The safety valve is a critical component. Check that the correct valve is present and that the boiler has not been modified with an inappropriate component.

Wilesco’s FAQ specifically warns that some very old whistle/safety arrangements no longer comply with modern safety requirements.

Check the drive

Turn the flywheel by hand.

It should move smoothly without:

• severe tight spots;

• grinding;

• obvious excessive play;

• binding;

• damaged teeth;

• visibly bent components.

A seized or badly worn engine may still be repairable, but its price should reflect that.

Wilesco currently sells a complete replacement D365 power unit, demonstrating that the drive assembly can be replaced rather than requiring the entire roller to be discarded.

Check the steering

Inspect:

• steering chain;

• front roller;

• steering mechanism;

• pivots;

• attachment points.

The steering should operate without excessive looseness.

Check the transmission clutch

Make sure the clutch/disengagement mechanism actually works.

This is important because the D365’s ability to switch between mobile and stationary operation is one of its main features.

Check the rollers

Inspect the aluminium roller surfaces for:

• severe impact damage;

• cracks;

• distortion;

• excessive corrosion;

• poor repainting;

• missing components.

Cosmetic wear is usually less concerning than mechanical damage.

Determining the age of an older Wilesco

For vintage buyers, Wilesco provides several useful dating clues.

According to Wilesco:

• grey-blue cylinder cladding was used from the beginning of production until the early 1970s, although steam rollers retained black cylinder cladding;

• black cylinder cladding was introduced from the mid-1970s;

• weighted steam whistles were produced until the mid-1980s;

• production markings underneath the base can be used from 1980 onward;

• on steam rollers, these markings are under the bottom plate of the cab;

• red handwheels continued until the late 1990s;

• black handwheels were used from 2000;

• plastic levers were introduced from 2005.

These details are useful when a seller claims that an engine is a particular age.

They are dating clues, not proof of an exact production year. For a valuable collector purchase, inspect the actual markings and configuration rather than relying solely on the seller’s description.

Wilesco D365 vs D366 vs D368

Choose D365 if:

• you want the classic Old Smoky;

• you want the lowest-cost assembled version;

• you care about operating rather than collecting;

• you like the traditional red/green colour scheme.

Choose D366 if:

• you prefer black/brass;

• you want a more decorative collector model;

• you do not mind paying more for appearance.

Choose D368 if:

• you prefer black/nickel;

• you want the more subdued collector appearance;

• you are particularly interested in the black/nickel Old Smoky.

There is no compelling performance argument for choosing D366 or D368 over D365. The decision is primarily aesthetic and collectible.

Wilesco D365 ready to run vs Wilesco D375 kit

This is a much easier decision.

Buy D365

If you want:

• immediate use;

• minimum assembly;

• the lightest version;

• the traditional model.

Buy D375

If you want:

• to build the engine yourself;

• to understand how the mechanism goes together;

• a more hands-on modelling project;

• the satisfaction of running an engine you assembled.

The D375 is not a performance upgrade. It is a construction alternative to the D365.

Wilesco D366 assembled vs Wilesco D376 kit

These two are the black/brass equivalents.

D366: assembled.

D376: kit.

If you want to display and run the engine immediately, buy D366.

If construction is part of the attraction, buy D376.

The D376 is substantially heavier at 3.04 kg according to the current Wilesco specification, but that should not be interpreted as greater engine output.

Which version gives the best value?

Best overall: D365

The standard D365 is the strongest choice for most buyers.

You get:

• the complete Old Smoky experience;

• mobile operation;

• stationary operation;

• reversible drive;

• chain steering;

• 230 cm³ boiler;

• 80 mm flywheel;

• traditional finish;

• factory assembly.

There is little reason to spend more unless you specifically want a different finish or collector edition.

Best for building: D375

The D375 provides essentially the same type of engine while adding the construction experience.

Best premium finish: D366

The black/brass finish is the most obvious upgrade if aesthetics are your priority.

Best black/nickel collector version: D368

Choose it specifically for its finish and collector appeal.

Best kit for collectors: D376

It combines the black/brass appearance with the construction experience.

Best for serious Wilesco collectors: D365/60

The 160-unit 60th Anniversary Edition is the one to consider if limited production and provenance matter more than value-for-money operation.

What I would avoid paying a premium for

Do not pay substantially more for an ordinary D366/D368 solely because a seller describes it as “more powerful” than a D365.

The manufacturer’s specifications show the same performance rating of 5, with the principal differences being finish and weight.

Likewise, do not buy a D375/D376 expecting superior mechanical performance. They are kits.

And do not automatically assume an older D365 is more collectible simply because it is old. Condition, originality, rarity of the specific version and documentation matter more than age alone.

What makes a good used example?

A strong used D365 should ideally have:

• original boiler;

• good safety valve;

• intact sight glass;

• complete chimney;

• complete steering chain;

• undamaged rollers;

• working clutch;

• smooth-running engine;

• no serious boiler corrosion;

• no obvious amateur repairs;

• original paint where possible;

• readable identification/production markings;

• operating instructions if available;

• original box if collecting is important.

For a collector, originality is worth paying for.

For someone who simply wants to operate the machine, mechanical condition is more important than perfect paint.

Running cost considerations

The D365 is inexpensive compared with full-size steam hobby equipment, but it is not maintenance-free.

Budget for:

• fuel;

• steam oil;

• regular lubrication;

• water treatment/cleaning;

• replacement seals;

• occasional wear parts;

• storage and transport.

Wilesco itself recommends purchasing dry fuel, steam-engine oil and drive spirals as part of maintaining an operating setup.

The approximately 15-minute operating time per fuel charge also means that a serious running session will require more than the two tablets supplied with a new engine.

Bearing in mind that dry solid fuel’ is now licensed in the UK, we recommend UK buyer either purchase a Bix 028 methylated spirit burner, or a Bix 011 gas conversion kit. Both of these will improve the running time of your D365, and are much cleaner and far more efficient.

Safety

The D365 is a real steam engine, not an electric toy.

The boiler contains pressurised steam and the model uses a heat source. Wilesco’s own guidance stresses safety and adult supervision for steam models.

Particular attention should be paid to:

• boiler condition;

• water level;

• safety valve;

• fuel handling;

• hot metal;

• escaping steam;

• operating surface;

• keeping flammable materials away from the engine.

For export versions, Wilesco explicitly states that certain gel-fuel models have no GS certification and are not toys, with an indicated minimum age of 14.

The most important buying decisions

The D365 family can be reduced to three questions:

1. Do you want to operate it immediately?

Yes → D365, D366 or D368.

2. Do you want to build it?

Yes → D375 or D376.

3. Do you primarily collect Wilesco?

Yes → D366, D368 or D365/60, depending on which finish and rarity matter to you.

That makes the choice considerably easier than the model numbers initially suggest.

Final recommendation

For a first Old Smoky: D365

It gives you the essential Old Smoky design without paying a collector premium for the finish.

For a display/collector model: D366

The black/brass finish is the most obvious visual step up from the standard D365.

For a black/nickel collection: D368

Buy it because you specifically want the black/nickel version.

For an enthusiast who wants to build the engine: D375

This is the most logical kit because it retains the classic D365 colour scheme.

For a collector who also wants the construction experience: D376

Black/brass plus kit construction.

For a dedicated Wilesco collector: D365/60

The 2026 anniversary edition is genuinely different from the normal colour variants because production is limited to 160 numbered examples worldwide.

Bottom line

D365 = the model to buy.
D366/D368 = the models to buy for finish/collectability.
D375/D376 = the models to buy for the building experience.
D365/60 = the model to buy for limited-edition collecting.

The mechanical heart of the range remains the same: a 230 cm³ live-steam Old Smoky with reversible drive, chain steering, stationary-drive capability and an approximately 15-minute operating period per fuel charge. The extra money in the range is therefore primarily buying finish, assembly experience or rarity, rather than additional steam-engine performance.

Official reference material

Wilesco provides a D365 operating guide and spare-parts documentation, and Forest classics hold the current parts catalogue in stock, which includes replacement D365-family boilers and a complete D365 power unit. This makes parts availability an important advantage when buying either new or used.