BREGAZZI STEAM BUGGY

The Harrogate show never fails to show something different. J. Bregazzi’s steam buggy shown in 2012 is certainly different. It was conceived in 2003 from a desire to own and operate a steam engine. A full-size traction engine would have been too expensive and take up too much space and money.

Also the design had to fit in a normal garage, and on an 8’ x 5’ trailer. To save cost, recycled parts would be used where possible and where safe.

A basic chassis was fitted with a Stuart Turner 5a initially. Needing more power, a set of castings for a second 5a, two-throw 90 degree crank and new bedplate were obtained to produce a ST ‘Swan’ type engine The chassis was also widened.

Other parts include: a roof from a narrow boat, a solid fuel stove chimney, speed boat steering system mated with steering from a lawn tractor, brakes from a quad bike, and a boiler from a steam launch.

The tool box, coal bunker and store are MOD ammunition boxes, and the water tank is the milk churn on the back of the buggy which feeds three old fire extinguishers under the rear platform. Mud guards and front panel were from a neighbour.

There is no suspension but low pressure tyres and padded seats give a comfortable ride.

The buggy has been rallied. But the point was not to produce something other than “for me to indulge in my enthusiasm for steam and to enjoy the genesis of a project. In that, it has been wholly successful and I am hopeful that it will continue to do so.”