Phoenix locos are UK based international distributors of high quality, affordable battery electric model locos,
rolling stock and loco bogies in 5 inch and 7.25 inch gauge that are ideal as club locos or in garden railways.

Project Loco 2 7.25" Frequently Asked Questions

Why have you changed the Project Loco?

The Project Loco has been tremendously successful over the years and we would like it to remain successful. The original loco was designed to be easy to build, easy to run and easy on the pocket. Project loco 2 is even easier to build, easier to run and is definitely easier on the pocket as you get a lot more loco for the same price!

Technological advances in CNC and laser cut production have made it possible to incorporate an all steel cab and bonnet, folded to precise tolerances to allow easy construction. The powder coat finish means you can get on with the kit and build it as soon as it arrives. The new iDrive 180amp digital control system simplifies the wiring and yet gives more flexibility with additional features such as a safety cut out, system on/off switch and additional switches for accessories such as horn, sound and lights.

What do you get with a Project Loco 2 kit?

Chassis, chassis side cover plates, cab and bonnet panels, buffer beams, brackets, suspension units with self aligning bearings, wheels, axles, lay shaft with roller bearings, taper lock sprockets, chain, and motor-mounting bracket. DC motor, motor-drive sprocket, motor speed controller, remote handset, fuse holder and fuse, all wiring, battery connector lead, illustrated instructions, stainless steel window frames, glazing, all fasteners and decal set.

Why is it 24volt?

We fit a 24volt motor and control system as standard on all our larger locomotives as it will give enhanced performance along with an increased running time between charges.

Do you need special paint?

You don’t need any paint. We have all the structural parts powder-coated. This is an industrial process whereby the bare metal part is electro-statically charged and the coloured powder is blown on to it. The part is then baked in an oven to provide a durable industrial finish. This process is commonly used on domestic appliances such as washing machines and cookers and by the bicycle and car industries.

The chassis, side cover plates and cab roof are finished in Satin Black, the buffer beams in Red and the cab and bonnet can be finished in your choice of colour from a range of powder coat finishes.

We can also arrange special colour schemes at additional cost.

What happens if I scratch the powder coat finish?

Unfortunately scratches and marks are a consequence of a hard working loco. The powder coat finishes we use are all taken from a standard colour range called the RAL colours, we supply the code for your loco colour and you can purchase touch up paint to match your loco and treat it the same way you would with any scratched, finished part. We particularly recommend enamel paints as they are thicker and closely replicate powder coat finishes in thickness and texture.

Is it only available in 7¼” gauge?

We now offer a dedicated 5" gauge version of the Project Loco which is scaled at 69% of the 7¼" gauge version. However, should you wish to have an over-scale version we can re-gauge the larger version to 5” for use on ground level railways.

Do you need engineering skills to build the kit?

Absolutely not, the kit is designed to be built with hand tools only. We do all the machining and supply all fasteners. The comprehensive illustrated building guide takes you through the whole process of building your loco.

What is involved in the building process?

The following list demonstrates the principal stages in construction.

• Bolt the buffer beams onto the chassis
• Build up the axle assembly from the machined parts.
• Build up the layshaft assembly
• Mount the layshaft and axle bearings
• Position the wheels sets and put the chain on.
• Bolt the chassis side cover plates on
• Attach the motor drive sprocket
• Mount the motor and drive chain.
• Build up the bonnet and cab using the fasteners provided.
• Mount the motor speed controller in the cab.
• Install the wiring for the batteries and connect the motor.
• Install your batteries and connect them through the fuse.
• Test your loco and enjoy!

The kit comes with comprehensive illustrated instructions and we are always happy to demonstrate any stage of the build and we are also happy to discuss any aspect of Project Loco ownership at any stage.

Is there a choice of graphics?

We include a set of graphics with each loco, you can choose from manufacturers such as Barclay, Hunslet and Ruston, you can also choose from a range of industrial owners such as Tunnel Cement, Castrol Wakefield or Cadbury. Chassis graphics are also supplied with every kit. We can also offer custom graphics at extra cost. Please refer to ordering details for further information.

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes, we do, subject to certain conditions we guarantee your locomotive for 12 months from day of purchase. The motor speed controller is warranted for an additional 12 months. We will repair or replace any item, which fails. We do however exclude items that have been mis-used.

What is the riding car chassis?

The riding car was designed to complement the Project loco and provide owners with a simple riding car of their own. It consists of a chassis fitted with the same wheels etc; as the loco with plain axles instead of driven ones. It is supplied as a rolling chassis kit and you will need to supply and fit a suitable seat. The chassis is powder-coated in Satin Black along with the side cover plates and Red buffer beams.

We do not recommend use of the riding car on raised track; it is designed for ground level working only.

How fast is a Project Loco and what will it pull?

Speed is around 8-10 mph maximum. Passenger hauling is around 1 to 12 passengers depending on gradients and track conditions.

What kind of delivery time can I expect?

We have project Locos in continuous production and can usually supply one within 3-4 weeks. The choice of colour is usually the governing factor with delivery. Although the powder coating process is fairly quick, it is governed by the availability of the colour and the fact that the process can only do one colour at a time. However, the finish is very robust and saves an enormous amount of painting!

What else will I need for my Loco?

You will need two 12v batteries, we can advise on type and size and we can supply if required. You will also need a battery charger.

I have an older model Project loco will I still be able to get parts for it?

We will continue to support and service the Mk1 Project loco.

How do I place an order?

You can order by telephone, mail or email.

Payment can be made by credit or debit card, cash, bank transfer (BACS) or cheque. We require a deposit and the balance on collection or prior to shipping.

Do you deliver?

We can arrange delivery by carrier at extra cost or you can collect your Project Loco from us.

We can arrange delivery worldwide with a few exceptions. Please contact us for further details regarding export sales.

E&OE we reserve the right to change specifications at any time as part of our on going product development programme 01.01.2013