Overview
Product Description
The Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is a complete ready-to-run freight train set that includes an EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive with operating headlight, a steel reefer car, a three-dome tank car, and a wide-vision caboose. The set comes with a 24-inch circle of nickel silver E-Z track, a power pack, and a speed controller. It is recommended for ages 14 and up and is N scale 1:160.
Recommended Age
As mentioned in the product description, the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is recommended for ages 14 and up due to its N scale 1:160 size. This size may be difficult for younger children to handle and could potentially pose a choking hazard. However, it is a great beginner’s train set for older children and adults who are interested in model railroading.
Reviews
The Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set has been praised for its great price, ease of set up, and overall quality. At $76, it provides a great value compared to buying individual components separately.
While some users have noted that the basic circle of track can become boring over time, it is easily supplemented with additional track pieces to create more complex layouts.
Some users have also recommended replacing the couplers with EZ Mate Mark 2 couplers for smoother connections. However, this is not necessary and is based on personal preference.
Overall, the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is a great option for those looking to get started in model railroading or for those with limited space. Its detailed locomotive and freight cars provide hours of entertainment and its ease of set up makes it a great choice for beginners.
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Packaging and Installation
Packaging
When we received the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Ready To Run Electric Train Set, we were pleased with the packaging. It came securely packed and well-protected in a box. The set includes an EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight, a Steel Reefer Car, a Three-Dome Tank Car, a Wide-Vision Caboose, a 24″ Circle of Nickel Silver E-Z Track, Power Pack, and Speed Controller.
Installation Process
Setting up the train set was very easy and straightforward, even for a beginner. The track was very easy to assemble, and we were able to set it up in a matter of minutes. The instructions provided were clear, making it easy to set up the train and get it running.
Ease of Use
The Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Ready To Run Electric Train Set is very easy to use. It includes a power pack and speed controller, which allows us to adjust the train’s speed and direction easily. We had no problems operating the train and enjoyed playing with it whenever we had the time.
In conclusion, the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Ready To Run Electric Train Set is a great value for its price. It’s perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike. With its easy setup, ease of use, and great performance, this train set is perfect for those who want to experience the joys of model railroading. With additional track, buildings, and cars, we can easily customize our train set, making it a great investment for hobbyists looking to expand their collection.
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Performance
Are you looking for a complete and easy-to-assemble train set that is perfect for beginners? Look no further than the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set. In this section, we will discuss the train set’s performance, including its operation, break-in period, speed controller, and compatibility with existing track types.
Operation and Functionality
The Bachmann Thunder Valley train set is easy to set up and operate. The documentation is clear and easy to follow, and the train runs smoothly right out of the box. The train set includes a locomotive powered by an EMD GP40 Diesel engine, a steel reefer car, a three-dome tank car, and a wide-vision caboose. The locomotive features an operating headlight that adds to the realism of the set.
Break-in Period
Although the train set is ready to run right out of the box, the manual recommends a break-in period for the locomotive to ensure top performance and longevity. According to one user review, the break-in period takes about one hour of continuous operation with lots of starts and stops. Once the break-in is complete, the engine functions without strain and has a long lifespan.
Speed Controller
The speed controller uses a 1/4-inch jack to power the rails and a wall wart-style power pack instead of placing the transformer in the control module. This style of controller made it easy to install and test on the kitchen table, according to one user review. The speed controller is user-friendly, making it easy to control the locomotive’s speed and ensure smooth operation.
Compatibility with Existing Track Types
One user review noted that the New EZ track has its advantages, including being able to run the train set on a carpet without having lint buildup on the wheels and trucks like on open track styles. However, it’s important to note that the train set is not compatible with existing track types out of the box. It may be possible to make it work, especially with some handy saw work to gently ease the track down from the “fake trackbed” to the layout level.
In summary, the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for an easy-to-operate train set. Its performance, reliability, and user-friendly controls make it a standout option in the market.
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Design and Detailing
Engine Detailing
The Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set comes with an EMD GP40 diesel locomotive that has an operating headlight. We were impressed by the engine’s level of detailing, which is visible in the carefully crafted parts of the locomotive, such as the exhaust stack, the grill, and the handrails. The engine runs smoothly and is powerful enough to pull the set’s freight cars with ease.
Freight Car Appearance
The set comes with a steel reefer car, a three-dome tank car, and a wide-vision caboose. The freight cars have intricate detailing, such as the ladders and stirrups, that add a level of realism to the set. The cargo in the reefer car is detailed, and the tank car has a realistic-looking top hatch. We appreciated the contrast between the bright colors of the tank car and caboose against the neutral steel color of the reefer car.
Metal Wheels and EZ Track
The freight cars have metal wheels that roll smoothly on the track, contributing to the train’s overall stability during operation. The Bachmann EZ Track system that comes with the set is easy to assemble and disassemble, which makes it ideal for beginners. We also found that the EZ Track prevents lint build-up on the train’s wheels and trucks, which can be a disadvantage of open track styles.
Dummy Knuckle Couplers
The set comes with dummy knuckle couplers that are hard to connect. While it is possible to connect them with some difficulty, we recommend replacing them with EZ Mate Mark 2 couplers, which work much better. However, the replacement process requires some work and the use of jeweller’s screwdrivers.
Overall, we found that the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Ready To Run Electric Train Set is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to start exploring the world of model trains. The set’s level of detailing is impressive, and its operation is smooth. The EZ Track system is beginner-friendly and prevents lint build-up on the train’s wheels. While the dummy knuckle couplers are hard to connect, they can be replaced with EZ Mate Mark 2 couplers. The set provides hours of entertainment and is a great value for the price.
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Fun Factor and Expansion
As a team, we had a lot of fun testing out the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set. It is a complete ready-to-run freight train set, priced at a reasonable $76, making it an affordable option for beginners or anyone looking to expand their collection.
Works around Small Spaces
With its 24-inch circle of nickel silver E-Z Track, it’s perfect for small spaces like apartments or even around a Christmas tree. It was easy to set up and take down, which is perfect for those who don’t want a permanent layout.
Operating Lights on Engine
One feature of the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set that we loved is the operating headlight on the EMD GP40 diesel locomotive. It added an impressive level of realism that added to our enjoyment as we watched the train go around the track.
Extra Tracks and Layouts
While the basic track setup is a simple circle, expanding and customizing your layout is easy with extra track packs. We recommend supplementing it with three packages each of the 11.25-inch radius curved track and 9-inch straight track to make more interesting layouts.
Continuous Expansion Potential
The continuous expansion potential of this set means that you can add more cars and buildings, create more scenery, and even invest in other trains that will easily raise the cost to $1000. However, if you want to keep it simple, you can enjoy the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set as is, and not spend anything more.
Overall, we highly recommend the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set, especially for those seeking a beginner-friendly option. At such an affordable price, you get a quality N scale train set that offers endless enjoyment and expansion possibilities.
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Pros
Easy Installation
One of the standout features of the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is its easy installation process. It takes only about 20 minutes to set up and get the train running on the tracks. The EZ track, which comes included, has its advantages, such as being able to run the train on a carpet without getting lint buildup on the wheels and trucks. While it may not be compatible with existing track types out of the box, it’s possible to make it work with some handy skills. Even for beginners, this train set is straightforward to install and get started.
Simple and Compact Design
The Thunder Valley Electric Train Set has a simple and compact design, making it a great beginner set for those who are new to model railroading. Despite its size, the train set packs a punch with its included EMD GP40 diesel locomotive with operating headlight, steel reefer car, three-dome tank car, and wide-vision caboose. It’s a complete train set that can be easily stored and taken down, so it doesn’t take up much room.
Good Beginner Set
Overall, the Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is an excellent starter kit for railway enthusiasts. It’s a complete train set that comes with everything you need to get started, including a power pack and speed controller. The engine is nicely detailed and runs smoothly after the necessary break-in period. The freight cars look great with their metal wheels, and the EZ track is easy to assemble. It’s a great value since the engine alone costs almost as much as this set.
Overall, we highly recommend the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set to those looking for a beginner-friendly and easy-to-install train set. It’s enjoyable, straightforward, and provides excellent value for money.
Cons
Incompatibility with Existing Track Types
One issue that we noticed with the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is its incompatibility with existing track types. If you want to expand your track layout, you’ll have to purchase more of the New EZ track that comes with the set or modify your existing track to accommodate the set. This can be a hassle if you’re not handy with saws and are not confident in your ability to modify the track.
However, one reviewer mentioned that it is possible to make the New EZ track work with other track types. With a little handy work, you can gently ease the track down from the “fake track bed” to the layout level. While it is possible, it does require some skill, and it’s not guaranteed to work for everyone.
Basic Circle of Track Gets Boring
Another concern we have noticed is that the basic circle of track that comes with the set could get boring after a while. The set only includes a 24″ circle of Nickel Silver E-Z Track, which can limit the layout possibilities. Some reviewers have suggested purchasing more track to expand the layout, which could get expensive quickly.
One reviewer suggested buying some extra track to make an oval layout, which works better than a simple circle. However, this means spending more money on additional track, which can add up quickly.
Overall, while the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Electric Train Set is a great starter set for those with limited room, the incompatibility with existing track types and the basic circle of track can be limiting factors. It’s important to keep these cons in mind when considering purchasing the set.
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Final Verdict
We highly recommend the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley Ready To Run Electric Train Set to beginners and experienced train enthusiasts alike. Here are the reasons why we stand behind this product:
Value for Money
At a reasonable price, this train set offers a complete package that includes a powerful locomotive, three freight cars, a 24-inch circle of EZ track, a power pack, and a speed controller. It also features an operating headlight on the engine, which is a nice detail for realistic play and display. For the quality of the set and the amount of fun it delivers, this product is an excellent value for money.
Recommended Additional Accessories
While the basic circle of track is sufficient for a start, we suggest expanding your set-up with additional tracks, mountains, tunnels, houses, lighting, and other accessories to enhance your experience and creativity. We also recommend replacing the dummy knuckle couplers with EZ Mate Mark 2 couplers for easier and smoother connection of the cars.
Overall Experience
From the easy set-up and operation to the smooth rolling of the metal wheels, the Bachmann Trains Thunder Valley set delivers a great overall experience. The engine stays on the track and runs well after the break-in period, and the freight cars look good behind it. The N scale size is perfect for compact spaces, such as small apartments or Christmas trees. Although the basic circle of track may get mundane quickly, with some supplemental tracks, you can build various designs to keep yourself entertained and challenged. All of these qualities make this train set a perfect choice for both beginners and advanced model railroaders looking for a fun and quality product.