Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Lionel Christmas Express LionChief Bluetooth Electric HO Gauge Model Train Set. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the train set to ensure safe and optimal performance.
Safety Information
Caution: This is an electrically operated product. It is not recommended for children under fourteen years of age. As with all electric products, precautions should be observed during handling and use to prevent electric shock.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known in the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Package Contents
Verify that all components listed below are present in your package:
- (1) 2-8-4 Locomotive
- (1) Tender
- (2) Coach Cars
- (1) Observation Car
- (12) Twenty Inch Radius HO Curve FasTrack sections
- (3) Nine Inch HO Straight FasTrack sections
- (1) Nine Inch HO Terminal FasTrack section
- (1) Wall-pack Power Supply
- (1) LionChief Remote for Locomotive
- (1) Owner Manual
Setup
- Track Assembly: Connect the FasTrack sections to form the desired layout. Ensure all track sections are securely joined to provide continuous electrical contact. The set includes (12) 20-inch radius HO curve sections, (3) 9-inch HO straight sections, and (1) 9-inch HO terminal FasTrack section.
- Power Supply Connection: Connect the wall-pack power supply to the terminal FasTrack section. Plug the power supply into a standard electrical outlet.
- Locomotive and Car Placement: Carefully place the locomotive, tender, and passenger cars onto the assembled track. Ensure all wheels are properly seated on the rails and the couplers are connected between the cars.
- Remote Control Batteries: The LionChief Remote requires (3) AAA alkaline batteries for operation (not included). Use a Phillips screwdriver (not included) to open the battery compartment on the remote control and insert the batteries, observing correct polarity.
Operation
Remote Control
The included LionChief Remote provides intuitive control over your train set.
- Forward/Reverse Speed Control Knob: Rotate the knob to adjust the train's speed and direction.
- Whistle Button: Press to activate the locomotive's whistle sound.
- Bell Button: Press to activate the locomotive's bell sound.
- Special Announcements Buttons: Use the additional buttons to trigger user-activated announcements and other sounds.
- On/Off Switch for Sounds: Located on the locomotive, this switch allows you to enable or disable the sound features.
Bluetooth App Control (LionChief App)
Operate your train using the Lionel LionChief App on a compatible smart device. The app utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless control and includes Lionel Voice Control (LVC).
- Download the App: Search for "LionChief App" on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) and install it on your smart device.
- Connect via Bluetooth: Follow the in-app instructions to pair your smart device with the locomotive via Bluetooth.
- Lionel Voice Control (LVC): Once connected, you can issue voice commands to your locomotive by speaking into your smart device.
Video demonstrating the Lionel Christmas Express HO Gauge train set in operation, highlighting its features and controls, including remote and app functionality.
Maintenance
- Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the wheels, axles, and linkage points of the locomotive and cars to prevent squeaks and reduce wear. Refer to specific lubrication points in the detailed owner's manual if available.
- Cleaning: Occasionally wipe the track and train wheels with a soft, dry cloth to keep them free from dirt and grease. This ensures optimal electrical contact and smooth operation.
- Storage: When the train will not be used for an extended period, remove all batteries from the remote control to prevent corrosion. Store the train set in its original packaging or a protective container in a dry, cool place.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Train does not move or respond to remote. | No power to track; remote batteries low/dead; poor track connection; locomotive not properly on track. | Ensure power supply is plugged in and connected to terminal track. Replace remote batteries. Check all track connections for tightness. Verify locomotive wheels are correctly seated on rails. |
| Train derails frequently. | Track not level; track connections loose; excessive speed; couplers not properly attached. | Ensure track is on a flat, stable surface. Re-check track connections. Reduce train speed, especially on curves. Verify all couplers are securely fastened between cars. |
| Sounds are not working. | Sound switch off; low power; remote issue. | Check the on/off switch for sounds on the locomotive. Ensure adequate power to the track. Verify remote batteries are fresh. |
| Bluetooth connection issues. | Device not paired; Bluetooth off; interference. | Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smart device. Follow app instructions for pairing. Move closer to the train or reduce other wireless interference. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 20 x 15 x 6.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 7.88 pounds |
| Model Number | 871811020 |
| Manufacturer Recommended Age | 14 years and up |
| Batteries Required (Remote) | 3 AAA batteries (not included) |
| Gauge | HO Gauge (1/87th scale) |
| Control System | LionChief Remote, Bluetooth 5.0 (LionChief App), Lionel Voice Control (LVC) |
| Sound System | RailSounds RC (steam chuffing, background sounds, whistle, bell, user-activated announcements) |
| Lighting | Operating headlight, flicker-free LED interior lighting in passenger cars |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Lionel website. For technical support, replacement parts, or further assistance, please contact Lionel customer service directly. Contact details can typically be found on the product packaging or the official Lionel website.
