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 5" Frequently Asked Questions

Why have you introduced the Project Loco 2 in 5" gauge?

When we designed the new Project Loco 2 we decided we should also design a dedicated 5” gauge version. We have been asked for a more compact version which would be scaled to suit the smaller garden railway and use on raised track.

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 5" gauge Project Loco 2 kit?

Chassis, chassis side cover plates, cab and bonnet panels, buffer beams, brackets, rubber suspension bobbins, wheels, axles, two trailing arm assemblies. Two 12v 150w DC motors, motor-drive sprockets, motor speed controller, remote handset, fuse holder and fuse, all wiring, battery connector leads, illustrated instructions, stainless steel window frames, glazing, all fasteners and decal set.

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. You can select the colour of your choice from the colour chart

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.

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.
• Bolt the chassis side cover plates on.
• Mount the trailing arm brackets.
• Attach the trailing arms to the brackets.
• 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. We will repair or replace any item, which fails. We do however exclude items that have been mis-used.

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