Take a quick glance at the exhibitors and attendees at gas engine shows, and it’s easy to think that this is an older person’s hobby. But take a closer look and you’ll find a growing number of younger enthusiasts. You’ll meet them in Young Iron.
Joseph Covais
Age: 34
Location: Upper Saddle River, New Jersey
How many engines do you currently have in your collection?
I have a 1900 Fairbanks-Morse 6hp standard, a 1912 Crossley KB with original paint, four Kohler light plants (1920, 1926, 1924, and 1942-ish), a 2hp Witte, a 5hp Galloway, a recently acquired 2-1/2hp Wisconsin, a circa-1880s Gramme Dynamo, and a Nagle steam engine with original paint.
What’s your favorite engine in your collection?
My favorite engine is probably my Crossley. I love the paint, attention to detail from the original builder, and the sound it makes when it runs. The flyball governor is probably my favorite feature.
Are you currently working on any projects?
I recently got a Nagle steam engine. It needs to be cleaned up and gone through to get it in working order. I’m also working to install a new igniter on my Fairbanks.
What are your favorite engines?
I love anything pre-1915. Also engines with hot tube, original paint, flyball-governors, or special electric.
As a young collector, what are some obstacles you’ve come across in the hobby?
As someone new to the hobby, it is often difficult for me to know how something should work or how an engine is supposed to run. Luckily I have a good friend who lives close, Jeff Holz. He originally got me into the hobby and has helped enormously, teaching me as much as he can.
If money weren’t an issue what is your dream engine to own?
My dream engine is a special electric White and Middleton with a dynamo!
Is this a hobby you share with family or friends?
My father comes with me to shows. He actually first told me about hit-and-miss engines but he hasn’t collected any.
What shows do you attend each year?
I go to the museum in Kent, Connecticut, and Coolspring Power Museum along with other local shows.
What do you keep an eye out for when searching to build your collection?
I try to find things that need work. I love original paint engines; those are always at the top of my list. A barn find is always something I look for, but who doesn’t?!
What do you wish you could find?
I wish I could find a special electric engine. My background is power generator and electricity so this would be a really cool engine to have. I also like how they have oversized flywheels.
What advice would you give to others wanting to become a collector?
I would recommend anyone new start with inexpensive engines. That way they can learn how they work and how to work on them and not worry if anything happens. Additionally, I would recommend they get involved in some online forums as there is a lot of good information out there along with many knowledgeable people.
What has been the most challenging restoration or repair you have completed?
I haven’t gotten myself into much trouble yet, but I am getting a new igniter trip made for my Fairbanks. I had to redo the exhaust valve and a couple of the fittings along with some new gaskets. Nothing too crazy, but one of my more extensive repairs thus far.
What resources do you use in this hobby?
I have found some books that are great! Also, old manuals and magazines are helpful references as well. I hate to admit it, but Facebook has some groups with some great threads.
Young Iron is looking for gas engine collectors, age 35 and younger. If you or someone you know would like to be profiled, please contact editor Christine Stoner: editor@gasenginemagazine.com.
