MINIATURE INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES Hardback – 176 pages. Author Malcolm Stride ISBN 978-1-861269-21-8

Miniature internal combustion engines have always been a crowd puller at model engineering exhibitions and the 1/5^th scale model of a Rolls Royce Merlin in full song has brought a tear to many eyes. Some of the large multi-cylinder sleeve valve engines and the American double row radials are true works of art and leave most model engineers standing in awe. This aspect of model engineering has been somewhat neglected compared to the steam locomotive but Malcolm Stride better known by the nom de plume of Nemett has been a regular contributor on this subject for many years. Probably more than anyone else, he is well qualified to write on the subject and his book Miniature Internal Combustion Engines will surely become a definitive work.

The book is divided into three sections. Part I: covers Operating Cycles and Engine Design Basics with an overview of the Workshop Equipment and Tooling required. Part II: covers in very comprehensive detail manufacturing methods for the individual components, a total of 15 chapters covering Crankshafts, Connecting Rods, Cylinders, Pistons, Carburettors, Ignition Systems with a very detailed section on Valve Gears and Ignition Electronics. Part III: covers Other Types including Sleeve Valve, Rotary, Wankel, Radial & Rotary Engines with a final chapter on Engine Operation, 21 Chapters in total, forming a truly comprehensive work of reference.

Compared to the steam locomotive, internal combustion engines run at very high temperatures, pressures and speeds with correspondingly high stress levels, thoughtfully, each chapter suggests suitable materials for each component, essential for the novice. This book will appeal to beginner and expert and unlike large steam locomotive can be built with a minimum outlay on castings and materials, as a final bonus they need no painting.

Colin Usher