The purchaser must use his own discretion as to the style of engine he prefers, a horizontal or vertical, side or center crank, as all styles are extensively used with equally good results. It is purely a matter of preference depending, of course, largely upon space or room available for stationary engine.
Do not make the mistake of deeming that any kind of a foundation will answer for a stationary engine. It should be built by a skillful mason in every case and hard brick or stone and cement used in its construction. The best is always the cheapest in the end.
An engine or boiler should never be put in a dark corner or damp cellar, rather place them when possible in dry well lighted rooms and so arranged that every part can be reached when necessary without trouble or delay. Walls and floors should be kept clean and a good supply of oil cans, wrenches, waste and whatever tools are needed should be kept in their proper places.
The purchaser of a traction engine should see that it has a Friction Clutch as an engine with a clutch is much more practical, convenient and safe to handle upon the road than one without a clutch. The matter of brackets, braces, gearing, traction wheels, axle, the manner in which the engine is mounted upon the boiler should be well considered as there are many kinds and styles, all of which have their merit “more or less.” Your own judgment should be used as to the style wanted after thoroughly studying the various kinds.
Do not make the too common mistake of thinking a cheap engineer is the man you want. The engine and boiler are important factors in the success of your business and no matter how simple and strong they may be it will pay you to put them in charge of a competent engineer who is capable of taking the proper care of them. For a small plant, or traction engine, it is not necessary to have the highest grade of ability, as there are several grades among engineers; but it is better to pay a suitable man for competent and faithful work than to pay for what may happen through the neglect or incompetency of one whose only recommendation is that he is cheap.
Do not be deceived by imposters claiming to be first-class engineers, who, the first thing they do, to substantiate their claims, alter the engine in some way that only deranges it. Be watchful of this and see that such men do not tamper with the valves and adjustments of the engine, which are always set properly before it leaves the factory.
DUTIES OF ENGINEERS.
The duties of an engineer are of much more importance and require a better knowledge of the operating of machinery than is generally understood. The responsibilities that rest upon him are very great; this applies to all engineers, but more especially to inexperienced men who take charge of small plants or farm engines, whose knowledge of machinery and the dangers connected with the improper handling of it, is limited. The proper management of boilers and engines is of as vital importance to prevent accident as their proper construction; as they are liable to get out of order and become unsafe unless the engineer is sufficiently informed to know what precautions should be taken under any and all circumstances that might prove disastrous.
Not only should an engineer be ever on the alert to guard against accident, but he should also be capable of keeping the engine, boiler and appliances in good condition, as the life of the machinery depends largely upon his competency and the faithful performance of his duties.
An Engineer: