Noun
traction engine (plural traction engines)
A wheeled steam engine used to move heavy loads, plough ground or provide power at a chosen location.
traction-engine
Steam-powered machines used belts connected to a traction engine ; often both engine and thresher belonged to a contractor who toured the farms of a district. Source: Internet
The traction engine could also supply electric power for lighting, and tow the calliope in the circus parade, where it traditionally came last. Source: Internet