Hi belli, the pics for the build need resizing or I need to find a hosting site .My computer ability is rather poor as is my patience with the things
On the front of the engine is the forward/reverse valve on the bottom of the disc a pin hangs down vertically
On the flywheel are two pins that are aligned for TDC and BDC so as the arm goes to the stop position one of the flywheel pins hits the controllers pin and stops the engine .To restart the pin in the arm pushes the engine from TDC or BDC enough to allow steam into the cylinder it also has a larger flywheel fitted that may be helping I dont know
Its not my idea and Iv seen it used several times . I think there is some more info on the French forum BloOOo
Iv put a couple of pics up on this site that may help
https://www.homemodelenginemachinist.com/threads/self-starting-single-d-a-wobbler.32169/Hi Mr Zippy
The mods look like a slip eccentric and the motor starts the engine and moves the eccentric to the right position
I think George is going to contact you soon with some info about a mod he made on a similar engine
Try swapping inlet for exhaust to see if she will run tuther way
There is some drawings knocking about for La Mouetta an open launch that uses a Wilesco plant and has a motor driven device fitted for reversing the motor
I tried heating the resin with no luck or maybe Im just to impatient . I like the look of the twin Midwest boat you posted a link for although it will be a single
Iv a soft spot for these boats and have fancied one for sometime after seeing Reciproca sailing
cheers