I wonder if anyone here can help or direct me to the right place?

I am looking for info on the Elvin type of mechanical stoker. On my website I have a small amount of info at: http://www.martynbane.co.uk/modernsteam/tech/elvin.htm and also have a loco crew's guide to the device but not much more.

Does anyone know if any loco retains this type of stoker? Having a real one to poke and prod would be very useful.

Why? Well beause there is coal railway way down in the south of Argentina which is on the verge of re-introducing steam as part of a tourist related extension but there was (last time I heard) also the possibility of coal fired machines hauling 2000t+ coal trains to the port. The locos are to be thoroughly updated (using Porta type technology) with one area to be addressed being coal distribution. The distribution of the Elvin shovel type is preferred (I understand for various reasons) to the more common steam jet system. So to be able to adapt the system to suit more details (principally the shovel distribution system) are required.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks.

Martyn.

Saw this sales booklet on Ebay

http://cgi.ebay.com/1923-Elvin-Stoker-A ... otohosting

And this from India:

http://www.iricen.gov.in/modules.php?na ... id=3918858

I think the Erie RR used them here in the USA

Ray