Building the CoasterDynamix Comet

Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to build a realistic wooden roller coaster model.  I always wondered how to make a roller coaster model. Thanks to CoasterDynamix I’ve finally been able to do so. The Comet is a fully operation HO Scale replica of a classic wooden roller coaster. Designed by the Gravity Group’s Michael Graham, this kit closely resembles a real roller coaster by utilizing an electric model to carry the three car trains to the top of the first hill where gravity then takes over as they traverses the remaining hills and turns.

If you’re looking for a toy to give to a child as a gift you might want to skip this one. The Comet is not easy to assemble (and I consider myself an experienced builder). There were many times when I felt like I needed a third hand to help piece it together. I especially had lots of trouble keeping the cars from falling apart and getting the full three car train to make a complete circuit (one car by itself works really well though).  I’m not exactly sure how long it took me to put together as I worked on it over a period of about four weeks. Also be aware the power supply is not included. Luckily, I had an adapter from an old train set I could use.

I applaud CoasterDynamix for having the skill and the audacity to create the Comet but I feel there is still room for improvement, such as a better order for the instructions and the reliability factor. While some of the construction process was frustrating at times the end result is very rewarding and the model looks fantastic. I am led to believe that CoasterDynamix “steel” roller coaster model kits are much easier to assemble and work more effectively too, so you might want to take that into consideration if you are considering purchasing one of their kits.

I created a short video showing what additional tools I needed to build the Comet model, a sorry attempt at time lapse photography, and the final working model. Enjoy!