Bidspirit auction | Wilesco D305 Live Steam Fire

Wilesco D305 Live Steam Fire Engine - This is a Wilesco D305 live-steam fire engine pumper model. The toy is constructed primarily of red-painted tinplate and sheet steel, with a vertical brass boiler, engine components, and a brass bell. The vehicle features a single-cylinder steam engine centrally mounted, which drives the rear wheels via a brass gear-and-chain transmission system. The front of the vehicle includes a steering wheel, a driver's bench with black upholstery, and two carriage-style lamps. A decorative brass bell is mounted on a curved bracket above the front seat. The rear section houses the vertical brass boiler equipped with a black chimney, a safety valve, and a glass water level sight gauge. Two manual hose reels with rubber hoses are mounted on the sides of the chassis, and a rear platform features a set of ladders. The wheels are painted red with black rubber tires. An oval brass-colored adhesive label is present on the side of the chassis, reading Wilesco in cursive script. A separate gold-tone oval label on the front dashboard depicts a crossed ladder and fire ax motif. Measurements: The model measures approximately 15 inches in length from the front bumper to the rear steps and stands approximately 7 inches tall to the top of the boiler chimney. The model shows significant accumulation of dust and surface grime across all components (photo 1). The red paint exhibits minor scuffs and small chips on the fenders and chassis edges (photo 3). The brass boiler and engine components show oxidation, spotting, and general tarnish consistent with age and storage (photo 5). The rubber tires and coiled hoses appear dry and dusty; the hoses show visible surface cracking (photo 4). The drive chain is present but appears dry and unlubricated (photo 3). The overall mechanical functionality is untested.