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[–] • 1 pt (edited )

Those big tractors are no more than 10-15HP, although some came in more from the factory, up to 60ish. It takes a lot of steam to do that much work, not to mention the boiler needs to be maintained or it explodes. See the Medina explosion from 2001. https://www.farmcollector.com/steam-engines/tragedy-at-medina-county-fairgrounds/

I'd prefer a simple gasoline engine. The early ones were very simple and could be repaired with just about anything you had.

[–] • 1 pt

Yeah, but it can't run without gasoline and oil. With a steam engine, anything that burns can give you power, and a little bear fat once in a while for lubrication can keep it running smooth.

(sorry for the Yeahbut. I always hate hearing from the "yeahbut" guy.)

[–] • 1 pt

You're probably going to need petroleum based products for lubrication, but it's moderately easy to crack petroleum yourself. Not much different than distilling alcohol.

[–] • 0 pt

I.C.E. are far superior as long as you have a supply of fuel. But steam power has been around for centuries. Hasn't there been any modern improvements since the '50s or '60s to make steam engines more competitive? ...or at least improved enough to be an alternative source of power? I only ask because you seem to know a lot on this subject and it's damned interesting. You would think there'd be much more interest in steam power among preppers and the Ted-in-the-shed types.