Tri-ang "Push and Go" steam engine

 

What can I get my Dad for father's day? That's the question every year, and in 2024, I spotted just the thing - a Tri-ang "Push and Go" steam engine. 

It wasn't something he had expressed a wish for, but for a tenner, it would be a bit of fun, and could then find its way into the Tri-ang Collection.

Finding out more about the railway "Push and Go" range is tricky. There's loads on the road vehicles, but little on the trains. Digging around on the web, I can't find a clear picture of this loco, but there is an American (early Transcontinental?) diesel called "The Diesel Flyer", which could be had with a couple of coaches. For European markets, the same set, but with a German diesel. 

Some excellent photos of the range here. 

You could also have a small (0-4-0) tank enigne with three  trucks, and a old-fashioned single-wheeler. 

This model isn't perfect. One of the wheels is broken, but at least it's reasonably straight. The diesels seem to suffer from distortion, ending up distinctly banana-shaped. 

I love the way the smokebox door is decorated with a wonky transfer. Why did they make it in black, for a red loco? 

And yes, the mechanism does work, but not very well. Rev it up and there's lots of nois, but not much motion!

My Dad was delighted with his present, understanding the spirit in which is given, and having a good laugh about it. Who doesn't want a toy train, and it's better than socks!