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.

Comet Frequently Asked Questions

I have a 5" gauge garden railway, can I run a Comet?

Yes. We can supply the Comet loco with 5" gauge wheelsets

What is the Garden Railway gearing option for?

Many people want to run their locos at a slower pace in the garden, especially if they are replicating the narrow gauge scene of agricultural and plantation railways. In full size the narrower gauges run at lesser speeds as speed was often less essential than the ability to haul large loads around tight bends so locos were geared accordingly. The large DC motor in the Comet loco runs more efficiently at higher revolutions so the extra gearing allows the motor to run efficiently but the loco speed is reduced by the extra gearing.

What if I want to change the gearing for a higher speed?

The electronic controller has a speed limiting switch which can run at full or half speed.

With the extra gearing the loco has a range of 6mph or 3 mph. If you disconnect the secondary lay-shaft and drive from the motor to the primary lay shaft the speed range will be increased to 10mph and 5mph. The whole changeover will take about 20 minutes to achieve.

How long will it take to build the kit?

You can build a Comet Loco in a weekend, the parts all bolt together and we supply a pre-made wiring loom and a fully illustrated build manual.

Will I need anything else to complete the loco?

Yes, you will need to add a pair of 12v batteries; we can advise on type and supply them for you.