I feel a bit of an imposter posting on this forum.
Although I have always loved engines, especially miniature ones, I do not own a lathe and I certainly don't have the skills to use one if I did.
My only saving grace is that I do collect small steam engines, mostly German, some dating back to the early 20th century
http://www.youtube.com/user/calypso22.
I have frequently wished I could make parts, as some have been very difficult to source, so maybe the time will come when I will make a start.
Anyway, from what I've seen from your forum, I think I will be spending a lot of time reading and learning. Fascinating stuff.