Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your Thomas & Friends Fisher-Price TrackMaster Thomas and Percy's Railway Race Set. Please read all instructions carefully before use to ensure safe and correct operation.
Safety Information
- Adult assembly is required.
- Recommended for ages 3 years and up.
- Keep small parts away from children under 3 years of age to prevent choking hazards.
- Do not mix old and new batteries. Do not mix alkaline, standard (carbon-zinc), or rechargeable (nickel-cadmium) batteries.
- Always remove batteries from the trains when not in use for extended periods.
- Dispose of batteries responsibly.
Package Contents
Before assembly, ensure all components listed below are present. Refer to the image for visual identification of parts.
Image: All components of the Thomas & Friends TrackMaster Thomas and Percy's Railway Race Set, including track pieces, two motorized trains (Thomas and Percy), the start gate, finish gantry, and bridge sections.
- 1x Streamlined Racing Thomas motorized engine
- 1x Racing Percy motorized engine
- Assorted TrackMaster track pieces (curved, straight, switch tracks)
- 1x Start gate assembly
- 1x Finish gantry assembly with checkered flag and fireworks mechanism
- 1x Collapsing bridge section
- Support risers and other accessory pieces
Setup and Assembly
Follow these steps to assemble your TrackMaster Railway Race Set. Refer to the included instruction sheet for detailed diagrams.
1. Prepare the Engines
- Each motorized engine (Thomas and Percy) requires 2x AAA batteries (not included).
- Locate the battery compartment on the underside of each engine.
- Using a Phillips head screwdriver, open the battery compartment.
- Insert 2 fresh AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Securely close the battery compartment.
- Turn the engine's power switch (usually on top or side) to the "ON" position to test.
2. Assemble the Track Layout
Connect the track pieces as shown in the diagram below. Ensure all connections are secure.
Image: The complete TrackMaster Railway Race Set assembled, showing the dual tracks, collapsing bridge, elevated sections, start gate, and finish gantry.
- Begin by connecting the start gate section.
- Attach the initial straight and curved track pieces to form the two racing lanes.
- Integrate the collapsing bridge section into the track layout. Ensure it is correctly positioned to allow the trains to pass and trigger the collapse mechanism.
- Use the support risers to create elevated sections of the track, particularly for the large curved section.
- Connect the finish gantry at the end of the race circuit.
- Verify all track connections are firm to prevent derailments. The total track length is over 6 feet.
Image: Thomas and Percy on their respective tracks, approaching the green bridge structure. This illustrates the dual track design and the bridge's placement.
Image: The green bridge section shown in a state of collapse, with Thomas and Percy passing through. This highlights the dynamic feature of the track.
Operating Instructions
Once the track is assembled and engines are prepared, you are ready to race!
Image: Thomas and Percy positioned at the finish line gantry, with a checkered flag raised, indicating a winner. This shows the end-of-race mechanism.
- Placement: Place Thomas and Percy on their respective starting tracks at the start gate. Ensure their wheels are properly aligned with the track grooves.
- Power On: Turn the power switch on both Thomas and Percy to the "ON" position. The engines will begin to move.
- Start the Race: Simultaneously lower the levers at the start gate for both engines. This will release them onto the track.
- Race Features:
- As the engines approach the bridge, it will burst apart to allow them to pass.
- The elevated curves provide dynamic racing action.
- Finish Line: The first engine to cross the finish line will trigger the checkered flag and fireworks mechanism on the gantry, indicating the winner.
- Reset: To race again, reset the collapsing bridge and the finish line mechanism. Place the engines back at the start gate and repeat the steps.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the track and engines with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not immerse engines in water.
- Storage: When not in use, store the set in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight. For long-term storage, it is recommended to disassemble the track and remove batteries from the engines.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries in engines when their speed decreases or they stop moving. Always use fresh, good quality AAA batteries.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Engines do not move or move slowly. |
|
| Engines derail from the track. |
|
| Finish gantry flag/fireworks do not activate. |
|
Specifications
| Model Number | DFM53 |
| Brand | THOMAS & FRIENDS (Fisher-Price) |
| Recommended Age | 3 years and up |
| Product Dimensions (Assembled) | Approximately 192.6 x 71.6 x 24.1 cm (75.8 x 28.2 x 9.5 inches) |
| Track Length | Over 6 feet (1.8 meters) |
| Batteries Required | 4x AAA (2 per engine, not included) |
| Material | Plastic |
| Number of Players | 2 |
| Assembly Required | Yes |
Warranty and Support
This product comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact Fisher-Price customer support.
For assistance with assembly, operation, or troubleshooting, please visit the official Fisher-Price website or contact their customer service department. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or their official website.
