I've V&S&F, but not played. I find it a great read.
I'm a bit awash in rule sets and scales; I can't help wishing to borrow a bit here, ransack a section there. You have my deepest admiration for actually getting anything done.
However, G.A.S.L.I.G.H.T.'s Start/Sustain/Restart rates are definitely not for the faint of heart.
"I can just imagine what the first steam vehicles reliability must have been like."
Steam tractors actually developed to be pretty reliable, but steam-driven armor would definitely be a pretty kettle...
I'm part way through The Great Martian Invasion, and that's made VERY clear.
Doug