Speaking of steam engines, I have been wondering about converting a gasoline engine (1-2 cylinder) for steam. Motorcycle engines come to mind (Don’t come for my ‘rag’ and leathers just yet, folks!), in that it might be easier to re-time the valves. Two-strokes might work best. I’m not sure how many people have given that thought—chances are someone has it already figured out, and could save reinventing the wheel, but being able to power a small generator with most anything that would burn would be a good start, and could power the tools to build better.
Check these out of people who have gotten ito to work on air compressor (easiest way to test a prototype steam engine)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdkdaxkSXDI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOqWzefvlfg
http://www.dutchforce.com/~eforum/index.php?s=5cbf631e38d29919a389f2ad29d74dd7&showtopic=37264
and finally
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dI-Zl7nEzA8
Fresnel lens is cool...or rather hot. Scanvenge one from a discarded old big screen TV and get one hot point of light :)