I saw this kit on sale at Little Machine Shop (www.littlemachineshop) so I picked it up.  The kit, part number 3485, normally sells for $60 but was (and still is as of this writing) on sale for $45.  The kit includes all materials needed (i.e. the aluminum and steel) AND an instructional DVD showing how to make each part done by swarfrat.com. 

This is a great project on many fronts.  Although the DVD is great, you still have to read the drawings.  You also have to turn some fairly precise cuts on the lathe (although if your cuts aren’t super precise, the engine should still work).  The DVD is nice because it walks you through each part, giving a visual tutorial as well as tips and tricks.

You can see in the video and photos that although mine is working, it isn’t perfect on the “fit” and also doesn’t look very pretty.  I’m going to re-work a few of the parts to improve the fit and allow it to run more smoothly.  I’m also going to sand/polish and re-profile a few parts to make this look cooler.  Since it’s main purpose is to be a display piece, I think it will be worth the extra step to improve the aesthetic.

If you’re interested in making this, I highly recommend you buy the kit with the DVD (part number 3485).  You’ll also need a lathe, a drill press, and a few taps & dies (as well as standard shop tools like drills, calipers, etc).  Hit me up if you have questions.