8 best hallmark electric train sets

Hallmark is a well-known brand that offers a range of products, including electric train sets that are popular among hobbyists and enthusiasts. These train sets typically cater to collectors and individuals interested in model railroading. Here are some key aspects related to Hallmark electric train sets:

  1. Collector's Items: Hallmark electric train sets are often produced as collector's items, featuring intricate details and high-quality craftsmanship. These sets are designed to appeal to both train enthusiasts and collectors of Hallmark products.

  2. Seasonal Themes: Hallmark often releases electric train sets with seasonal and holiday themes. For example, they may create Christmas-themed train sets that are perfect for holiday decorations and displays.

  3. Scale and Gauge: These train sets are typically available in various scales and gauges to suit different preferences and display sizes. Common scales include HO (1:87), O (1:48), and N (1:160).

  4. Intricate Design: Hallmark places a strong emphasis on the design and authenticity of their train sets. You can expect attention to detail in locomotives, rolling stock, and accessories to make them as accurate and visually appealing as possible.

  5. Limited Editions: Some Hallmark train sets are released in limited quantities, making them particularly sought-after by collectors. These limited editions often feature unique features or designs.

  6. Track Systems: Hallmark electric train sets typically come with a complete track system, allowing enthusiasts to set up and run their trains right out of the box.These sets may include straight tracks, curved tracks, switches, and more.

  7. Compatibility: Depending on the scale and gauge, Hallmark train sets may be compatible with standard tracks and accessories from other manufacturers. This can provide flexibility for expanding layouts and customizing setups.

  8. Sound and Lighting Effects: Many Hallmark train sets come equipped with sound and lighting effects to enhance the realism of the model. These effects can include locomotive sounds, working headlights, and more.

  9. Collectible Packaging: The packaging of Hallmark train sets is often designed to be collectible as well, with themed boxes and artwork that complements the overall appeal of the product.

  10. Display and Decor: These train sets are not just for operation; they are often used for display and decoration. Many collectors showcase their Hallmark train sets as part of holiday decorations or themed displays.

Hallmark electric train sets are known for their quality and attention to detail, making them appealing to both train enthusiasts and collectors. They offer a unique opportunity to combine the joy of model railroading with the charm of Hallmark's seasonal and holiday themes. When considering a Hallmark electric train set, it's essential to choose the scale, gauge, and theme that align with your preferences and collection goals.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best hallmark electric train sets on the market
  

Lionel Santa Fe Super Chief Electric O Gauge Model Train Set w/ Remote and Bluetooth Capability

Lionel

Based on 295 reviews Check latest price

Product description

One of the most beautiful trains to grace the railway is back in our Ready-to-Run line-up and better than ever, the Santa Fe Super Chief! Last produced in 2013 by Lionel, we have taken this iconic set and additional rolling stock to a new level by adding our LionChief remote and Bluetooth technology giving you multiple ways to operate your set. You are not going to want to miss putting this beauty on your layout!

  • Set Includes: Santa Fe FT diesel locomotive, Two coach cars, Observation car, Eight curved O36 FasTrack track sections, one 10" straight FasTrack, Plug-Expand-Play power lock-on section, one FasTrack terminal section, and two 10" straight, Wallpack power supply, LionChief remote
  • Locomotive Features: Electric locomotive controlled by LionChief remote or Bluetooth LionChief app, On/Off switch for sound, RailSounds RC sound system with diesel revving and background sounds, horn, bell, and user-activated announcements, Operating directional headlight, Two powerful maintenance-free motor, Operating couplers, Illuminated cab interior
  • Passenger Car Features: Die-cast metal trucks and operating couplers, Illuminated and detail interior, Flexible diaphragms between cars, Opening doors
  • LionChief Remote Features: Forward and reverse speed control knob, Three buttons to activate horn, bell, and special announcements, Requires three AAA alkaline batteries (not included)
  • Minimum Curve: O31 | Set Length: 52 1/2" | Recommended Age: 10 years +

User questions & answers

Question: Descripción del producto
Answer: Lots of train accessories @train world.com
Question: Where do I find the tunnels and stations ect
Answer: I added three extra passenger cars and a small amount of extra track. The engine pulls with ease on a flat service. I posted a video recently and ran the train very slowly to capture close ups as I also added passengers to the cars. The engine was only at 15% power. At 60% it flies. Clean track and good solid connections are key. This is using the wall wart power supply which is included with the set.
Question: Can it pull the 2 extra add ons
Answer: Won’t let me leave a video in the comment, or I would. This a great set though. I even went and got the two additional cars.
Question: Does anyone who has purchased this train set mind posting a video of the train in action? It would be great to hear the horn, bell, announcements
Answer: If the switch for smoke is in the on position per guide pages 11 and 15 and you have added smoke fluid then smoke should operate when the locomotive starts to run. I have found with other locos that if smoke fails to appear after a short period carefully blow down the chimney to clear a possible airlock. I am not saying this works every time but worth a try.

Lionel The Polar Express Battery-powered Model Train Set, Ready to Play with Remote

Lionel

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This year, showcase the magic of Christmas with The Polar Express train set. Witness the children’s shadows as they sit in the passenger cars drinking steaming mugs of hot chocolate and chattering excitedly about Santa. This train is sure to make your home glow with Christmas spirit this season. You can operate this train using six conventional C batteries (not included)! The set also comes with an easy-to-operate RC remote control (requires three AAA batteries). With this Ready-to-Play set comes an exclusive track system which allows you to create; a circle, a rectangle or an oval layout. As this track system is exclusive to Ready-to-Play set, it is not compatible with Lionel G Gauge or other G Gauge track systems.

  • This year showcase the magic of Christmas with the iconic Polar Express train set.
  • Dimensions: 50" x 73.2" oval of Ready-to-Play track. 24 pieces of curved and 8 straight plastic track pieces. Fixed knuckle couplers.
  • Remote Control: Buttons allow train to go forward and reverse, sound the whistle, ring the bell, and play announcements
  • Batteries Required: Three AAA batteries for controller and six C cell batteries required for train (not included)
  • The set includes a working headlight and 3 train cars. Witness the children’s shadows as they sit in the passenger cars.

User questions & answers

Question: would this train set fit into a christmas village setup or is it too big? if the train is bigger than the homes it may not look right. If too large
Answer: The bodies of the rolling stock are plastic, but the trucks and wheels are all die-cast metal. The engine is a mix of metal and plastic.
Question: What is the difference between the ready to play set and ready and straight track pack
Answer: Sorry , I really don't know !
Question: Can you turn the sounds off
Answer: Note that you'll need two different engineers. This train comes with engine 4520, make sure your second engine is a different number.
Question: Are there cars and accessories that can be added to this train
Answer: Plug-in with inline transformer

Lionel Pennsylvania Flyer Battery-powered Model Train Set Ready to Play w/ Remote

Lionel

Based on 593 reviews Check latest price

Product description

One of the most famous names in railroading is featured in this realistic freight train set. Load and unload the box load from the silver gondola and wave goodbye to the dashing red caboose.With this Ready-to-Play set comes an exclusive track system which allows you to create; a circle, a rectangle or an oval layout. As this track system is exclusive to Ready-to-Play set, it is not compatible with Lionel G Gauge or other G Gauge track systems.

Brand Story

By Lionel Trains

  • Set Includes: Steam locomotive and tender, Gondola with crate load, Center cupola caboose, 24 curved and eight straight plastic track pieces, RC remote control
  • Locomotive Features: Highly detailed, sturdily constructed Berkshire-style locomotive, Authentic train sounds, including bell and whistle, Working headlight, Requires six C cell batteries (not included)
  • Freight Car Features: Fixed knuckle couplers, Removable crates on gondola
  • Remote Control Features: Designed for easy use, Clearly marked buttons allow train to go forward andreverse, sound the whistle, and ring the bell, Requires three AAA batteries (not included)
  • Set Length: 50" x 73" | Recommended Age: 4 years +

User questions & answers

Question: Can this train be used outdoors
Answer: Yes, it can puffs a little steam which looks like smoke.
Question: Are there additional cars sold separately
Answer: No, TEMI has no separate tracks available for sale anywhere. You'd basically need to buy a whole full set to get more tracks.
Question: Are the cargo boxes removable
Answer: UPDATE: Water DOES work, and very well. If you put it in the correct hole, which is not obvious given that there are no real instructions. There is a bit.ly site given to watch in place of printed instructions, but the site does. not work because the "youtube account has been terminated." A second problem was the train kept jumping the track. Very slightly loosening the screw holding the front wheel assembly on the engine (like 1/4 turn) fixed this. The train is now better than expected for the price. Just be prepared to figure out a few things without instructions and MAYBE make an few small adjustments.
Question: Can you buy extra tracks
Answer: I thought the very same thing when I ordered it. However, it just happens to fit perfectly in the space that I set aside for it. I do not know why we cannot get extra tracks. Perhaps if we could, I might have picked a different space? I hope this helps.

Lionel Pennsylvania Flyer Electric O Gauge Model Train Set w/ Remote and Bluetooth Capability

Lionel

Based on 681 reviews Check latest price

Product description

All aboard for brand New adventures on rails! The Lionel trains Pennsylvania flyer ready-to-play train set is leaving the station on a non-stop run to fun. This electric RC locomotive set features a detailed and ruggedly built berkshire-style locomotive with working headlight, smoke, and sounds. The set includes a steam locomotive and tender, 3-domed tank car, boxcar, and caboose. Download the Bluetooth app to control you train from your phone, and prepare for non-stop adventure with the Lionel trains Pennsylvania flyer.

  • Set Includes: 0-8-0 locomotive and tender, Three-dome tank car, Boxcar, Caboose, Eight curved O36 FasTrack track sections, one 10” straight FasTrack Plug-Expand-Play power lock-on section, one FasTrack terminal section, and two 10” straight FasTrack sections, 54W Wall-Pack Power Supply, LionChief remote for locomotive
  • Locomotive Features: Electric locomotive controlled by remote or Bluetooth LionChief app, Operating headlight, On/Off switches for smoke and sound, RailSounds RC sound system with steam chuffing and background sounds, and useractivated whistle, bell, and announcements, Puffing smoke, Powerful maintenance-free motor, Operating couplers, Chuffing sounds in synch with puffing smoke
  • Rolling Stock Features: Operating couplers, Opening doors on boxcar, Metal handrails and ladders on tank car
  • LionChief Remote Features: Forward and reverse speed control knob, Three buttons for whistle sound, bell and special announcements, Requires three AAA alkaline batteries (not included)
  • Minimum Curve: O31 | Set Length: 45" | Recommended Age: 10 years +

User questions & answers

Question: Why won't the smoke work
Answer: Yes, each section has 1 or 2 holes which go right through the plastic through which screws can be put through into wood or anything else underneath. Do not screw it down to solid as if the temperature goes up and down then the track expands and contracts and the track can be distorted. I find a screw here and there is enough.
Question: can the tracks be secured to plywood
Answer: The cars have a plastic top and a steel pressed chassis with metal wheels and axles. The tender is the same with the loudspeaker only in it. The locomotive has a die cast upper removable body. The chassis is a mixture of metal and composite plastic. All the electronics are in tge locomotive.
Question: Is the engine die cast metal
Answer: I recently bought one of these sets and it was made for the 2017 season. The associated books are copyright 2017. We are now in 2017 and it looks like Lionel do a Lioncheif extra for some models with more facilities on the remote and better announcements. However this works well and the bell,, whistle, and chuff work very well. The volume of the sound can be changed from the handset with even more changes possible on bluetooth. Bluetooth seems to only work on an i phone or android.
Question: What year is this model? Is it the most current? There is another one listed for $227.99, what is the difference
Answer: Good luck finding it, we never did. Ordered 3 of them, 2 for the grandkids. Set up ours before xmas and was VERY disappointed in it. I was told there was a switch, but could not find it. Could not keep train on the track. Thought the cars were very light and cheaply made. We returned all 3 sets. Asked others for their opinions, and they all thought it was pretty much junk. I was excited for this for the kids, but knew it was junk.

Lionel Santa Fe Diesel Passenger Ready-to-Play Set, Battery-powered Model Train with Remote

Lionel

Based on 275 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lionel is now offering one of the most beautiful trains to grace the railway, the Santa Fe Diesel, in our Ready-To-Play lineup! Our new Santa Fe Diesel Ready-To-Play set is the perfect way to get your little engineer started in the world of model trains!With this Ready-to-Play set comes an exclusive track system which allows you to create; a circle, a rectangle or an oval layout. As this track system is exclusive to Ready-to-Play set, it is not compatible with Lionel G Gauge or other G Gauge track systems.

  • Set Includes: Battery-powered diesel locomotive, Coach passenger car, Observation passenger car, 24 curved and 8 straight plastic track pieces, RC Remote Control
  • Locomotive Features: Authentic train sounds including horn and whistle, Working Headlight, Requires six C cell batteries (not included)
  • Freight Car Features: Fixed knuckle couplers
  • Remote Control Features: Designed for easy use, Clearly marked buttons allow train to go forward and reverse, sound the whistle, and ring the bell, Requires three AAA batteries (not included)
  • Ready-to-Play | Set Length: 50" x 73" | Recommended Age: 4 years +

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with batteries
Answer: No it does not
Question: Can i connect other lionel "ready-to-play" cars to this ready-to-play set? i see conflicting answers, some say yes, others say no. ???? thanks
Answer: No
Question: Will this train make a 90° turn
Answer: Ready to Play is G gauge so, no, this would not work
Question: Does it run on lgb track
Answer: There is just a special marking on the car. Other than that, nothing else. -Nicholas Smith Trains

Lionel North Pole Central Ready-to-Play Battery Powered Model Train Set with Remote, Multicolor, 50 x 73"

Lionel

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas! Celebrate the wonder of theseason with this North Pole Central Freight Set and bring thegoods from Santa’s top-secret location to your layout!With this Ready-to-Play set comes an exclusive track system which allows you to create; a circle, a rectangle or an oval layout. As this track system is exclusive to Ready-to-Play set, it is not compatible with Lionel G Gauge or other G Gauge track systems.

Brand Story

By Lionel Trains

  • Set Includes: Battery-powered General-style locomotive and tender, Gondola with crate load, Center-cupola caboose, 24 curved and eight straight plastic track pieces, RC remote control
  • Locomotive Features: Authentic train sounds, including bell and whistle, Working headlight, Requires six C cell batteries (not included)
  • Freight Car Features: Fixed knuckle couplers, Removable crate load in gondola
  • Remote Control Features: Designed for easy use, Clearly marked buttons allow train to go forward andreverse, sound the whistle, and ring the bell, Requires three AAA batteries (not included)
  • Ready-to-Play, Set Length: 50" x 73", Recommended Age: 4 years +. Scale type - semi-scale

User questions & answers

Question: What scale is the train
Answer: No.
Question: Does this play Christmas music? I noticed a musical note button on the remote control
Answer: Yes it should turn on and then you can run it with the remote or the transformer like any other train
Question: Is there any way to configure the track so it is more narrow than 50"? I would love to use it on a table
Answer: O scale is about twice the size of h.o. The ratio of model to real in O scale is 1:48. HO scale is 1:82. Lionel is famous as an o scale pioneer.
Question: Can you take out the green block looking things in the 2nd car
Answer: You don’t want to return it but you want a new one? I’d suggest buying a new one then...

Bachmann Trains - Thoroughbred Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale

Bachmann Trains

Based on 616 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Thoroughbred Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale. Wheels rumble like the pounding of hooves as this iron horse rounds the bend. Hauling freight with the ease and grace of a champion, the Thoroughbred delivers fun and adventure to your stable of trains. View video to see this set in action. This ready-to-run train set includes: F7 diesel locomotive with operating headlight, open quad hopper, gondola, wide-vision caboose, body-mounted E-Z Mate couplers,47" x 38" oval of snap-fit E-Z Track including 12 pieces of curved track, 1 piece of straight track and 1 plug-in terminal rerailer, power pack and speed controller, illustrated instruction manual.

From the Manufacturer

Wheels rumble like the pounding of hooves as this iron horse rounds the bend. Hauling freight with the ease and grace of a champion the Thoroughbred delivers fun and adventure to your stable of trains.

  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a F7 Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Open Quad Hopper Car, Gondola Car, and Wide-Vision Caboose
  • 47" x 38" Oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87

User questions & answers

Question: does the power pack work in australi
Answer: If you guys use 220 volt, this will NOT work over there. This use 110 volt only.
Question: is this train electric or battery powered remote controled
Answer: 110v transformer controls it. no batteries
Question: Does the engine blow smoke
Answer: No, the engine does not blow smoke. Usually only the steam engine replicas do and not all. If the train does have a "smoker" it will be clearly advertised on the package. It is an option many want so it will be promoted clearly on the packaging.
Question: Can these trains pull more cars if I expand
Answer: yes. he could pull 10 cars

Product features

Discover Everything Bachmann Trains Offers to Get Started in Model Railroading

Since 1833, Bachmann has been known for providing innovative design at a good value. We are now one of the world's largest distributor, by volume, of ready-to-run train sets, locomotives, track, and accessories. Bachmann is also the only train company to offer products in all five of the most popular scales: N, HO, On30, O, and Large Scale.

As a distributor of beloved Thomas & Friends products, Bachmann brings the adventures of Thomas the Tank Engine to life with a growing line of complete train sets, separate sale items, and accessories for children from 8 to 80-just add your imagination. Thomas & Friends is available in both HO and Large Scale.

Bachmann's exclusive snap-together E-Z Track System makes track setup quick, easy, and fun. Plasticville U.S.A. and SceneScapes buildings and accessories let you add the finishing touches for the perfect layout.

If You Are Purchasing a Train Set, It Will Include

  1. Locomotive
  2. Cars (Rolling Stock)
  3. E-Z Track – available in either black roadbed with steel alloy rail or gray roadbed with nickel silver rail
  4. Terminal/Rerailer
  5. Terminal Wire
  6. Speed Controller
  7. Power Supply
  8. List of Components

Track Assembly

  1. Decide where to set up your train – a dry, firm, flat surface works best!
  2. To make sure you have enough working room, make a test track layout by loosely placing track in desired configuration.
  3. The terminal/rerailer section will later be connected to a power pack and power supply, so place it near an outlet or power strip.
  4. Install under-track magnet, if your set comes with one. If your set does not come with one, magnets are available separately (HO Item No. 78999; N Scale Item No. 78998).
  5. Assemble the track by pushing together. Make sure the rail and joiners are seated properly. Be careful that the rail joiners do not slip under the rail without properly connecting. This can cause train derailments and electrical circuit interruptions.
  6. After track is assembled, double-check for joint connection and fit by lightly running your fingers over the top of the rails in both directions.
  7. If you detect bumps or distortion on the track surface, recheck the rail joiner fit.

Power Connections

  1. Power supply and speed control are plug and play; no tools are needed.
  2. Power is supplied to the track and the locomotive by the power supply, speed controller, terminal wire, and E-Z Track terminal/rerailer.
  3. First – turn knob on the speed controller counterclockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
  4. Next – attach terminal wire to the speed controller by plugging it in where it says 'To Track.'
  5. Then – plug terminal wire into the E-Z Track terminal rerailer. Firmly push connector onto the track terminals.
  6. Finally – plug the connecting wire from the power supply into jack on the speed controller labeled 'In.' Then plug power supply into a live wall outlet.
  7. Some sets may come with a speed controller with two push button connectors. These are used to supply AC power to accessories.
  8. To make positive and secure connections to these, push in buttons and insert each of the bare ends of the connection wire from your accessory.
  9. The speed controller is capable of powering one accessory at a time.

Putting the Train on the Track

  1. Put the locomotive on the track and run the wheels back and forth over the terminal rerailer track.
  2. When the wheels glide smoothly over the track, you know the wheels are all on the track. If your set comes with a tender, attach it to the locomotive.
  3. Add the rest of the cars that come with your set by placing them on the track and running them back and forth over the terminal rerailer until they glide smoothly. Then gently push the cars together – they will engage automatically.
  4. Do not try to connect cars when positioned over an under-track magnet.

How to Use E-Z Mate Couplers (HO and On30 Scale)

  1. Your set may be equipped with E-Z Mate magnetically operated knuckle couplers that let you perform real railroad switching and yard operations.
  2. Coupling two cars with E-Z Mate couplers is as easy as pushing them together when they are not over an under-track magnet.
  3. Uncoupling occurs only when over an under-track magnet and when there is no tension between the cars.
  4. To uncouple E-Z Mate couplers, stop two couplers directly over the under-track magnet. With no tension between the cars, the couplers will open automatically.
  5. If cars will not couple, check to be sure cars are not positioned over the uncoupling magnet or parked on a curve.
  6. If cars will not uncouple, check to be sure the couplers are positioned directly adjacent to the magnet position indicator and that the indicator is placed in line with the center line of the under-track magnet.
  7. Check that the magnet is secured to the underside of the track and fitted with the steel plate provided.

How to Run Your Train

  1. Turn the knob on the speed controller clockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
  2. Plug in the power supply.
  3. Begin feeding power to the track by slowly turning the knob on the speed controller clockwise.
  4. Observe the direction of your train.
  5. If it moves backwards when the controls indicate forward, stop the train.
  6. Then simply disconnect, flip, and reconnect the terminal wire to the terminal rerailer track.
  7. Remember – never leave your train running unattended!

Action Checklist (Troubleshooting If Your Train Doesn’t Run or Stops Running)

  1. Is the power supply plugged in to a live receptacle?
  2. Are the wheels on the track?
  3. Is the wiring secure?
  4. Is the track properly assembled?
  5. Is the track properly seated in the rail joiner?
  6. If your train stops or fails to start, a short circuit may be indicated. If this is the case, Unplug The Power Supply Immediately.
  7. Common reasons for a short circuit: derailed wheels may cause a short. Check to make sure all wheels are on the track. Also check all connections and make sure there is no metal of any sort across the rails.
  8. After checking everything carefully, resume operation.
  9. Please note, your power supply is protected by a circuit breaker that automatically resets after a short circuit is corrected.
  10. Allow up to 5 minutes for the circuit breaker to reset before resuming operation.

Keep Your Train in Top Operating Condition

  1. Works better after couple hours of break-in time.
  2. Train performs best under clean operating conditions.
  3. Clean wheels and a clean track ensure good electrical contact.
  4. After about every 8 hours of operation, wipe the track rails and exposed wheels with a soft, lint-free cloth.
  5. Removal of black residue is normal.
  6. Do Not Use Steel Wool To Clean Your Track.
  7. Do not use common solvents, they may damage plastics - use track cleaner.
  8. After 24 hours of use, light lubrication is required to keep train in top operating condition. Bachmann E-Z Lube or other hobby-grade lubricants are recommended.

Bachmann hopes you enjoy your train for many years to come!

Bachmann Trains - Jingle Bell Express Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale

Bachmann Trains

Based on 328 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Bachmann Trains Jingle Bell Express HO Scale Electric Train Toy will make a special addition to holiday decor. It is decked out in red and green and is carrying a sweet cargo of holiday treats. The ready-to-run electric train set for kids will delivery merry dreams around your Christmas tree for years to come. This item includes one 0-6-0 steam locomotive with an operating headlight and coal tender, a single-dome tank car, a box car, a quad hopper car and an off-center caboose. It also comes with a large E-Z track oval, a power pack and speed controller and an illustrated instruction manual. This Bachmann electric train set will delight both kids and adults.

  • Complete Ready To Run Holiday Train Set
  • Powered by a 0-6-0 Steam Era Locomotive and Tender with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Single Dome Tank Car, Box Car, Quad Hopper Car, and Off-Set Cupola Caboose
  • 47" x 38" Oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
  • Complete Ready to Run Electric Train Set
  • Features a Holiday Decorated Locomotive

User questions & answers

Question: I just bought this but I have no idea what size/scale and where of christmas village should I buy. Does anyone have an idea
Answer: The train set is HO scale.
Question: Is it possible to set the train to start working as soon as it has power or do you need to press a button/turn it on each time to get it working
Answer: Yes, that should be the default setting - you will be able to control the power via the transformer.
Question: Delliver they also to Belgium
Answer: Thanks for visiting our store! Unfortunately, we do not ship internationally at this time and apologize for any disappointment.
Question: Train derailed often
Answer: We struggled for years with the train derailing. This year I decided to do some research. I read that though the track looks perfectly connected the rails may not be perfectly lined up. I checked and three of our connections we're not flush on the top. After I fixed this, we put the train on and now it runs perfectly. So happy.

Product features

Discover Everything Bachmann Trains Offers to Get Started in Model Railroading

Since 1833, Bachmann has been known for providing innovative design at a good value. We are now one of the world's largest distributor, by volume, of ready-to-run train sets, locomotives, track, and accessories. Bachmann is also the only train company to offer products in all five of the most popular scales: N, HO, On30, O, and Large Scale.

As a distributor of beloved Thomas & Friends products, Bachmann brings the adventures of Thomas the Tank Engine to life with a growing line of complete train sets, separate sale items, and accessories for children from 8 to 80-just add your imagination. Thomas & Friends is available in both HO and Large Scale.

Bachmann's exclusive snap-together E-Z Track System makes track setup quick, easy, and fun. Plasticville U.S.A. and SceneScapes buildings and accessories let you add the finishing touches for the perfect layout.

If You Are Purchasing a Train Set, It Will Include

  1. Locomotive
  2. Cars (Rolling Stock)
  3. E-Z Track – available in either black roadbed with steel alloy rail or gray roadbed with nickel silver rail
  4. Terminal/Rerailer
  5. Terminal Wire
  6. Speed Controller
  7. Power Supply
  8. List of Components

Track Assembly

  1. Decide where to set up your train – a dry, firm, flat surface works best!
  2. To make sure you have enough working room, make a test track layout by loosely placing track in desired configuration.
  3. The terminal/rerailer section will later be connected to a power pack and power supply, so place it near an outlet or power strip.
  4. Install under-track magnet, if your set comes with one. If your set does not come with one, magnets are available separately (HO Item No. 78999; N Scale Item No. 78998).
  5. Assemble the track by pushing together. Make sure the rail and joiners are seated properly. Be careful that the rail joiners do not slip under the rail without properly connecting. This can cause train derailments and electrical circuit interruptions.
  6. After track is assembled, double-check for joint connection and fit by lightly running your fingers over the top of the rails in both directions.
  7. If you detect bumps or distortion on the track surface, recheck the rail joiner fit.

Power Connections

  1. Power supply and speed control are plug and play; no tools are needed.
  2. Power is supplied to the track and the locomotive by the power supply, speed controller, terminal wire, and E-Z Track terminal/rerailer.
  3. First – turn knob on the speed controller counterclockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
  4. Next – attach terminal wire to the speed controller by plugging it in where it says 'To Track.'
  5. Then – plug terminal wire into the E-Z Track terminal rerailer. Firmly push connector onto the track terminals.
  6. Finally – plug the connecting wire from the power supply into jack on the speed controller labeled 'In.' Then plug power supply into a live wall outlet.
  7. Some sets may come with a speed controller with two push button connectors. These are used to supply AC power to accessories.
  8. To make positive and secure connections to these, push in buttons and insert each of the bare ends of the connection wire from your accessory.
  9. The speed controller is capable of powering one accessory at a time.

Putting the Train on the Track

  1. Put the locomotive on the track and run the wheels back and forth over the terminal rerailer track.
  2. When the wheels glide smoothly over the track, you know the wheels are all on the track. If your set comes with a tender, attach it to the locomotive.
  3. Add the rest of the cars that come with your set by placing them on the track and running them back and forth over the terminal rerailer until they glide smoothly. Then gently push the cars together – they will engage automatically.
  4. Do not try to connect cars when positioned over an under-track magnet.

How to Use E-Z Mate Couplers (HO and On30 Scale)

  1. Your set may be equipped with E-Z Mate magnetically operated knuckle couplers that let you perform real railroad switching and yard operations.
  2. Coupling two cars with E-Z Mate couplers is as easy as pushing them together when they are not over an under-track magnet.
  3. Uncoupling occurs only when over an under-track magnet and when there is no tension between the cars.
  4. To uncouple E-Z Mate couplers, stop two couplers directly over the under-track magnet. With no tension between the cars, the couplers will open automatically.
  5. If cars will not couple, check to be sure cars are not positioned over the uncoupling magnet or parked on a curve.
  6. If cars will not uncouple, check to be sure the couplers are positioned directly adjacent to the magnet position indicator and that the indicator is placed in line with the center line of the under-track magnet.
  7. Check that the magnet is secured to the underside of the track and fitted with the steel plate provided.

How to Run Your Train

  1. Turn the knob on the speed controller clockwise until it stops (all the way to the left).
  2. Plug in the power supply.
  3. Begin feeding power to the track by slowly turning the knob on the speed controller clockwise.
  4. Observe the direction of your train.
  5. If it moves backwards when the controls indicate forward, stop the train.
  6. Then simply disconnect, flip, and reconnect the terminal wire to the terminal rerailer track.
  7. Remember – never leave your train running unattended!

Action Checklist (Troubleshooting If Your Train Doesn’t Run or Stops Running)

  1. Is the power supply plugged in to a live receptacle?
  2. Are the wheels on the track?
  3. Is the wiring secure?
  4. Is the track properly assembled?
  5. Is the track properly seated in the rail joiner?
  6. If your train stops or fails to start, a short circuit may be indicated. If this is the case, Unplug The Power Supply Immediately.
  7. Common reasons for a short circuit: derailed wheels may cause a short. Check to make sure all wheels are on the track. Also check all connections and make sure there is no metal of any sort across the rails.
  8. After checking everything carefully, resume operation.
  9. Please note, your power supply is protected by a circuit breaker that automatically resets after a short circuit is corrected.
  10. Allow up to 5 minutes for the circuit breaker to reset before resuming operation.

Keep Your Train in Top Operating Condition

  1. Works better after couple hours of break-in time.
  2. Train performs best under clean operating conditions.
  3. Clean wheels and a clean track ensure good electrical contact.
  4. After about every 8 hours of operation, wipe the track rails and exposed wheels with a soft, lint-free cloth.
  5. Removal of black residue is normal.
  6. Do Not Use Steel Wool To Clean Your Track.
  7. Do not use common solvents, they may damage plastics - use track cleaner.
  8. After 24 hours of use, light lubrication is required to keep train in top operating condition. Bachmann E-Z Lube or other hobby-grade lubricants are recommended.

Bachmann hopes you enjoy your train for many years to come!

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