Introduction

The Lionel Thomas & Friends Set 683510 is a delightful electric train set that brings the beloved characters of Thomas the Tank Engine to life. This set features Thomas himself, along with his faithful coaches, Annie and Clarabel, and includes a user-friendly remote control for easy operation. Designed for both new and seasoned hobbyists, it offers a fun and engaging way to introduce children to the world of model trains. Priced at $249.99, this set promises hours of imaginative play and enjoyment.

Specifications 

This set includes:

• Thomas the Tank Engine with moving eyes and puffing smoke
• Two coaches: Annie and Clarabel
• Tidmouth Hault station with platform and figures
• Track pieces for creating a circular layout
• Controller for easy operation
• Accessories such as signs, trees, and characters

The set is made from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and long-lasting play. It is compatible with other Lionel G Gauge tracks and accessories, allowing for endless expansion possibilities.

Thomas & Friends Set Features

Parents! The transformer included with this set should be periodically examined for conditions that may result in the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons (such as damage to the output cord, blades, housing, or other parts). In the event that such conditions exist, the transformer should not be used until properly repaired.

Creating your layout

Operating your PowerMax Transformer safely

Your Lionel PowerMax Transformer is listed by Underwriter’s Laboratory Inc. and has been carefully designed to ensure peak performance. When using electrical products, basic safety precautions should be maintained.

Be sure to observe the following guidelines:

• Read the manual thoroughly before using this device.
• This device is not recommended for children under eight years of age.
• Parents should periodically inspect this product for potential hazards and, if necessary, have them repaired by an authorized Lionel Service Center. In the event that such a condi-tion exists, the transformer should not be used until it has been properly repaired.
• The PowerMax Transformer is intended to be used indoors. Do not use this device if water is present. Serious or fatal injuries may result.
• Use the PowerMax Transformer only for its intended purpose.
• The PowerMax Transformer was meant to operate on 120-volt, 60-Hertz power. Do not con-nect this product to any other power supply.
• Do not operate the PowerMax Transformer with a damaged cord, plug, or case.
• To avoid the risk of electrical shock, do not disassemble the unit. There are no user service-able parts inside. If damaged, take this product to an authorized Lionel Service Center.
• Do not operate the PowerMax Transformer on your layout unattended. Obstructed acces-sories or stalled trains may overheat, resulting in damage to your layout.
• Always unplug the PowerMax Transformer from the power source when not in use.
• Never insert objects into the ventilation slots on this product. Damage to sensitive electronic components can result.

Building your Lionel layout

Your set comes with eight curved, three straight, and one terminal section of track. Figure 1 provides some examples of layouts that you can build with these track sections. By adding more FasTrack track sections, you can create an endless number of exciting track arrangements for more fun, action, and variety.

The railroad of your dreams can quickly become a reality!

Joining the FasTrack track sections

FasTrack track sections join together easily. With interlocking roadbed sections and large rail tabs, the track fits together securely so you always get good electrical contact. Take a look at Figure 2 to see how to join the track sections.

1. Line up your two sections of track.
2. Insert the rail tabs into the openings at the ends of the corresponding rails.

3. Press the sections together until the interlocking roadbed snaps into place.

   

Connecting your PowerMax Transformer

Connect your FasTrack terminal section to the PowerMax Transformer. Use the wires that are already attached to the terminal section. Make sure that all connections are secure. Loose connections can produce extremely high temperatures. For this reason, do not touch the terminals or track connections during use. Also, do not locate scenery materials such as lichen or ground foam near the terminals.

1. Feed the wires through the notch in the FasTrack terminal section. Refer to Figure 4.
2. Loosen the red TRACK thumbscrew terminal, then slide the spade-shaped connector on the red wire into position. The thumbscrew post should be positioned between the “blades” of the spade connector. Be sure that the blades are touching the metal post. Tighten the thumbscrew to secure the connection.
3. Loosen the black TRACK thumbscrew terminal, then slide the spade-shaped connector on the black wire into position. Tighten the thumbscrew to secure the connection. Be sure that the blades are touching the metal post. Tighten the thumbscrew to secure the connection.
4. Plug the PowerMax Transformer into your wall outlet (120 volts).
   As your layout expands, you may also make power connections with the stripped ends of wires, placing no more than two wires on each terminal. For best performance on large layouts, it is recommended that you use 16-gauge wire to connect your PowerMax Transformer to the track. On larger layouts where several track connections are required, the use of separate junctions/terminal strips (available at your local electronics store) is recommended to prevent voltage drops.

Caution! To prevent the excessive build-up of heat, be sure to select the proper wire gauge for your layout. Track connections must be made with 18-gauge wire or heavier. Larger layouts require a minimum of 16-gauge wire.

Running your trains

Running your train set

1. With track power off, place your train set on the track. 
   Refer to page 9 for information on coupling the cars.
2. Power up your locomotive with your transformer.
   Your locomotive is designed to operate on 7-15 volts alternating cur-rent. Virtually all Lionel and Lionel-compatible alternating-current transformers are suitable.
   Note! Do not power your locomotive with direct-current (DC) transformers. The locomotive was designed for use with alternating-current (AC) transformers only.
3. Get your locomotive moving!
   Your locomotive goes through a repeating pattern of operations: forward, neutral, reverse, neutral, and so on. To sequence the reverse unit, press the DIRECTION but-ton on your transformer, or briefly bring the throttle all the way back to the OFF position and then forward. Each press of the DIRECTION button or interruption in track power causes the locomotive to advance to the next operational state.

Adjust track voltage until your locomotive moves at your desired speed.

Coupling

Your locomotive and coaches feature operating couplers. To open the couplers by hand, slide the uncoupling tab towards the car. To uncouple the cars using an Uncoupling Track section (available separately, 6-12020), position the uncoupling trigger over the central magnet and press UNCOUPLE on the controller.

Note! Keep in mind that it’s easier to couple cars on a straight stretch of track.

Operating your trains with the PowerMax Transformer

You’re clear for departure! Move the throttle control handle forward to increase power to the track. The farther forward you push the handle, the faster your train will go.
Note! Quickly shutting off or throwing the throttle all the way forward will not result in an instant change in track voltage.
When operating in the conventional (non-command) environment, remember that the greater the load on the engine (adding more cars for the engine to pull, for example), the farther forward the handle must be pushed before it will operate the locomotive.

Experiencing the features of the PowerMax Transformer

Refer to Figure 6 on page 12 for the location of the Transformer features listed in this section.

THROTTLE
Push the throttle forward to increase track power. The markings on the throttle approximate the percentage of full power. For more realism, push the throttle slowly to gradually increase or decrease the speed of the locomotive. Slowing or stopping the locomotive with the throttle instead of the DIRECTION button will allow you to continue in the same direction when you increase the throttle again. To achieve this effect, reduce the throttle to the point that the locomotive stops moving, don’t completely turn off the throttle.

That way, your train won’t sequence into neutral.

POWER-ON INDICATOR
The green light will remain on during normal operation. The green light will begin to flash if you exceed the power limit of the Transformer. The unit will allow you to momentarily exceed the power limit, but power will be gradually reduced until the problem is corrected. This safety feature replaces the circuit breaker. The benefit is that the Transformer will not instantly turn off.

DIRECTION
The DIRECTION control button interrupts track power to activate the reverse unit in locomotives with forward-neutral-reverse operation.

Note! When the DIRECTION button is presssed, track power is interrupted instantaneously. Track power is restored gradually when the DIRECTION button is released.

WHISTLE/HORN
The WHISTLE/HORN button will activate Lionel sound-equipped locomotives, including those equipped with the RailSounds sound system. The sound will continue until the button is released. No external sound activation buttons are needed.

BELL
The BELL button will activate all RailSounds bells. Press the BELL button to begin the sounds; press the button again to turn off the ringing.

Note! Your locomotive is not equipped with bell sounds
Note! Do not activate horns, whistles, or bells on RailSounds-equipped locomotives until track power has been turned on for a few moments, or a continuous horn/whistle or bell sound may occur. To correct this problem, simply turn off the PowerMax Transformer, then turn it back on.
Note! The PowerMax Transformer may cause random whistles in the Lionel Mighty Sounds of Steam tenders with a three-pin connector. We recommend that you a purchase a RailSounds-equipped tender to solve this problem.

Attaching the three Thomas faces

Three interchangeable facial expressions (surprised, tired and angry) easily slip on and off Thomas for fun and imaginative play. Refer to Figure 7.

To attach one of the faces, carefully position it in front of the permanent smiling Thomas face and push it straight on. To remove it, simply pull it straight off. Please remember that the smiling Thomas face cannot be removed. Refer to Figure 8.

Reverse unit procedure

The electronic reverse unit inside your Lionel locomotive acts like the transmission in a car. When you apply power to the track, the locomotive moves in the direction specified by the reverse unit—or it sits in neutral, awaiting another power interruption. Power interruptions are the signal that tells the reverse unit to sequence to the next operational state.

To interrupt power and sequence the locomotive’s reverse unit, press the direction control button or briefly bring the throttle lever all the way back to the OFF position. Refer to Figure 10 for the location of these controls. The reverse unit alternates between three states: forward, neutral, and reverse.

Also, the locomotive can be “locked” into a certain mode of operation by throwing the reverse unit switch located on the underside of the frame (see Figure 9). To lock your locomotive into a specific operational state, sequence the locomotive into the desired state and reduce track power without completely powering down the locomotive, then throw the switch to the OFF position. The DIRECTION button will then have no affect on the direction of the locomotive. If you would like to resume forward-neutral-reverse operation, simply throw the reverse unit switch back to the ON position.

Additionally, this reverse unit has a “power-up reset” feature. If the locomotive sits without power for a short period of time, the reverse unit will automatically reset and start in the forward direction when the transformer is turned on or “powered up,” regardless of the reverse unit switch position. If the switch is in the OFF position, the locomotive will start in the forward direction and be “locked” there.

PowerMax Transformer operation

Powering your layout with the PowerMax Transformer

Your PowerMax Transformer provides a total output of 2.4 amps. Also, available voltage depends on how much load is on the output. Generally, track voltage is 0-16 volts (AC).
You may momentarily approach or exceed the 2.4 amp limit of the PowerMax Transformer when pulling illuminated cars, or fighting over grades with heavy loads. When you reach 2.4 amps, the green light on the Transformer will begin to flash. This indicates that the Transformer is in “fold-back mode.” In fold-back mode, the Transformer is automatically reducing, or folding back, power. This gradual reduction in power provides interruption-free power while bringing the amperage back down to a safe level. If this condition lasts for more than 30 seconds, the Transformer will shut off the power to the track and the green light will continue to flash. Move the throttle to the off position to reset the Transformer and return to normal operation.

Description

Designed painstakingly to represent the core of the Thomas & Friends universe, the Lionel Thomas & Friends Set 683510 The core of this collection is Thomas, the happy and vivacious tank engine. Annie and Clarabel, his coaches, help to authenticate the Sodor experience. The Tidmouth Hault station offers a picturesque setting with finely sculpted figures and accessories meant to improve the performance space.

From the puffing smoke to Thomas's shifting eyes, every part of the set guarantees that it adds to an interesting and immersive experience. This kit offers hours of imaginative play regardless of your level of experience with model trains or Thomas & Friends.

Setup Guide

Using these guidelines may help you to arrange the Lionel Thomas & Friends Set 683510:

• Carefully unbox every component to guarantee they are all included.
• As advised in the handbook or design your own, arrange the track pieces to make a circular pattern.
• To guarantee seamless train operation, firmly link the track sections.
• Set Thomas the Tank Engine on the track and fasteners his carriages, Annie and Clarabel.
• Set your Tidmouth Hault station then put the characters, plants, and signs around the design.
• To be sure everything is operating as it should, plug in the controller and run the train.

For comprehensive directions and any particular setup needs, consult the supplied handbook.

Maintaining and servicing your set

Lubricating your locomotive

Help your steam locomotive lead a long and productive life on your railroad by maintaining it properly. We recommend that you purchase a Lionel Lubrication and Maintenance Kit (6-62927), available from your Lionel dealer. 

• Two basic rules to keep in mind: never over-lubricate (a small amount will do) and avoid getting grease or oil on the locomotive’s wheels, contact rollers, or your track.
• You’ll know your locomotive requires lubrication when visual inspection reveals dryness on the parts indicated in Figure 11. 
• Remove accumulated dirt and dust before lubricating, and always lubricate any locomotive emerging from prolonged storage.

Lionel Thomas & Friends Set 683510 Troubleshooting

No lights or operation
Be sure PowerMax Transformer is plugged in.
Train runs, but WHISTLE, and DIRECTION buttons do not work
Check track connections. The track must be connected to the “A” and “U” terminals on the Transformer.
No change when DIRECTION button is pressed
Be sure that your locomotive reverse unit switch is ON.
Locomotive runs slowly at the far end of the track
On larger layouts, additional track resistance may cause a voltage drop. Attach additional power connections to the remote portion of your track. Power wires (6-12053) are available separately.
Green light begins to flash
The power limit of the Transformer has been exceeded. The unit will gradually reduce power until the problem is corrected.
Bell button blows whistle
Switch the wire connections at the Transformer terminals. Be sure that the U post is connected to the outside rail and the A post is connected to the inside rail.
Green light flashing , no power to the track
The Transformer has shutdown because the power limit was exceeded for more than 30 seconds. Move the throttle to the OFF position to reset the Transformer and return to normal operation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Real and detailed Thomas & Friends landscapes and characters.
• Superior materials guarantee longevity
• Simple operation and setup
• Compatible with various tracks and accessories for Lionel G Gauge
• Promotes inventiveness and creative play.

Cons

• The price might be somewhat higher for various budgets.
• Some users might find the track parts somewhat delicate.
• Needs an area for the circular arrangement.
• Maybe calls for more acquisitions for complete development.

Customer Reviews

The Lionel Thomas & Friends Set 683510 thorough design and interesting play experience has usually drawn compliments from customers. Here are some typical evaluations:

• "This set is a must-have for any Thomas & Friends enthusiast; the attention to detail is astounding and setting and playing with this set is much fun."
• "The puffing smoke element provides an added dimension of realism; the component quality is excellent."
• "My youngster spends hours building several scenarios with Thomas and his companions, loving this set."

Most Common Complaints

Some users have noted that the track components need cautious handling as some of them might be somewhat delicate. A few patrons have also mentioned that a bigger layout or more supplied accessories would improve the set.

Warranty

This Lionel product, including all mechanical and electrical components, moving parts, motors and structural components, with the exception of LIGHT BULBS, LED’s & TRACTION TIRES are warranted to the original owner-purchaser for a period of one year from the original date of purchase

NOTE: Products that require service that do not have a receipt from an LIONEL AUTHORIZED RETAILER* will be required to pay for all parts required to repair the product (labor will not incur a charge) providing the product is not older than 3 years from date of manufacture and is within 1 year from date of purchase. A copy of the original sales receipt is required.