recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Straight Track

## Straight Track

### Active:

2002-2004 (UK)
2002 (AUS)

### Item Number:

40598

The **Straight Track** is a track pack.

## Timeline

* 1996 (simple grey design, only in packs and sets)
* 2002 (detailed design, coloured track and plant surrounding)

## Availability

* Branch Line Playtrack
* Turntable Playtrack
* Accessory Pack Assortment (*cancelled*)
* Deluxe Playtrack
* Water Tower (ERTL)
* Crane
* Tunnel
* Level Crossing
* Stationhouse Playtrack
* Stationhouse Accessory Set
* Engine and Straight Track Assortment
* Real Sounds Playset
* Station House Playtrack Giftset
* Windmill
* Quarry Loading Accessory Set
* Thomas and the Magic Railroad Gift Set
* Thomas Playset
* Sodor Mainline Playtrack
* Roundhouse Portable Playset
* Sodor Mining Co.
* Roundhouse and Carry Case Deluxe Set
* Brendam Docks Electronic Playset
* Sodor Viaduct Bridge Playset
* Sodor Quarry Set
* Harold's Heliport Remote Control Portable Playset
* Add-on Track
* Coal Loader Playset
* Center Island Quarry Portable Playset
* Water Tower (Take Along)
* Lights and Sounds Smelting Yard
* Cranky the Crane
* Lights and Sounds Wellsworth Station
* Sodor Warehouse Electronic Playset
* Train Yard Set
* Working Hard Set
* Really Useful Engine Set
* Roundhouse Deluxe Pack
* Curved and Straight Track Pack
* Up and Away Track Pack

## See also

* Track
* Curved Track
* Points Track
Rusty and the Rescue Cars

**Rusty and the Rescue Cars** is a pack. It includes Rusty, a spotlight car with lights and sounds, and a hose car with moving ladder. The Rescue Cars were released in the UK in 2009 while Rusty was released in the US.

## Product Description

### **Collector card description**

*Name: Rusty & the Rescue Cars*

*Color: Orange & Red*

*Bio: Rusty is always ready to help out an engine in need. He is accompanied by a special car with a ladder and a spotlight car that help find engines in trouble.*

## Availability

* Bonus Free Engine Assortment (Rusty and hose car only; with Emily)
* Rescue Station Playset (hose car only)

## Trivia

* This was the first release of Rusty's Take Along model and the Rescue Cars.
* Skarloey can be seen in the background on the collector card picture.
Falcon

**Falcon** is a variant of Sir Handel depicting him with his original name, Falcon.

## Product Description

### **2002 ERTL collector card**

*Brought up under instruction from Duke, Falcon is one of the oldest engines. Generally he is of the opinion that he knows it all and should be the boss but is given to the occasional tantrum.*

## Timeline

* 2002 (pin-hook couplings)
* 2003 (U-hook rear coupling; only available in the UK)

## Trivia

* Falcon was the last engine released with the original pin hook coupling style.
* Falcon's portrait mistakenly depicts him as the number 4 whereas he’s actually number 3.
* Despite ERTL releasing a version of Sir Handel with his original name Falcon, there was never one for Peter Sam's original name Stuart. This was likely because it would be expensive to change the funnel to his original one.
	+ It is unknown if they would have made Stuart if the line continued.

## Gallery

2002-2003 Falcon boxFalcon collector card
Thomas Turntable and Video Playset

box

The **Thomas Turntable and Video Playset** is a UK exclusive set licensed by Chad Valley.

## Includes

* Thomas
* Lady
* Bertie
* D Fusit
* Troublesome Truck
* Shed
* Four Straight Track pieces
* Three Curved Track pieces
* Ten Single Curved Switch Track pieces
* Turntable
* Siding Track
* Four Signals
* Two Traffic Lights
* Thomas and Bertie Adventures VHS Tape

## Trivia

* Despite the VHS's name, Bulgy is the only episode on the tape that doesn’t involve Thomas and Bertie, with the latter just having a cameo.
Tar and Milk Wagons

This article is about **Milk Tanker and Caboose**. You may be looking for **Tidmouth Milk Tanker**.

## Details:

### Active:

1992 (*shelf date*), 1993-2004 (UK)
1993-2001 (US)
1993-2002 (AUS)

### Ranges:

ERTL 1:64 Scale Range
The ERTL Collection

### Portrait Number:

25 (1993)
27 (STS)
29 (2002)

### Item Number:

4001

The **Tar and Milk Wagons** are a pair of tankers that transport milk and tar across the Island of Sodor.

## Product Description

### **Historical Note**

*The Tar and Milk Wagons are based on rolling stock developed in large quantities during the 1940’s and 1950’s, and used throughout Britain.*

### **Shining Time Station collector card**

*Thomas and his friends from time to time pull the milk and tar wagons to different ports and stations so they can be pumped - nice break from pulling those foolish freight cars!*

## Timeline

* 1993 (pin-hook couplings, Britt Allcroft licensing)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2003 (U-hook rear couplings; only available in the UK)

## Availability

* Five Pack 2
* 10 Piece Value Set

## Trivia

* The Tar and Milk Wagons are the only items without a character description on their collector card, instead being reduced to just the historical note.

## Gallery

Prototype Tar and Milk Wagons1993 Tar and Milk Wagons box1993-2000 Tar and Milk Wagons box1993-2000 Tar and Milk Wagons collector card2000-2002 Tar and Milk Wagons box2003-2004 Tar and Milk Wagons box2002-2004 Tar and Milk Wagons collector card
S.C. Ruffey

**S.C. Ruffey** is a troublesome ballast truck.

## Product Description

### **1998 ERTL collector card**

*S. C. Ruffey is an old experienced truck with a bad attitude and rough habits. He is the leader of a gang of trucks that work Oliver's Yards and one day pushed him down the turntable pit. After that, S. C. Ruffey and the gang sang rude songs about Oliver - but Oliver paid him back!*

### **Historical Note**

*All the trucks are mixed goods wagons which date from various periods.*

## Timeline

* 1998 (Britt Allcroft licensing)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)

## Variants

* "Santa's Toys" S.C. Ruffey from Santa Thomas (2001)
* Toybox S.C. Ruffey from Santa Thomas (2002)

## Availability

* 12 Piece Super Set
* Sodor Gift Set 1
* Percy and S.C. Ruffey
* Gift Set 1

## Trivia

* When S.C. Ruffey was first released, he was initially paired with another Troublesome Truck for a limited time.

## Gallery

Prototype S.C. Ruffey1998 S.C. Ruffey box with Troublesome Truck1998-2000 S.C. Ruffey box1998 S.C. Ruffey collector card1998-2000 S.C. Ruffey collector card2000-2001 S.C. Ruffey box
### Variants gallery

Chad Valley "Santa's Toys" S.C. RuffeyChad Valley "Toybox" S.C. Ruffey
Rusty

* 2012
* 2005
* 1996

**Rusty** is a kind orange diesel engine who works on the Skarloey Railway.

## Product Description

### **1996 ERTL collector card**

*Rusty is very self assured and is a dedicated worker with a huge heart. Loves adventure as well as all the other engines and will do anything to make their lives easier. Fearless in nature, Rusty always smiles in the face of adversity. A pal for life.*

### **Historical Note**

*Rusty is based on a four wheeled Ruston and Hornsby Diesel engine, built around 1940.*

### **2006 Take Along collector card**

*Name: Rusty*

*Color: Orange*

*Bio: Rusty is a dedicated worker with a huge heart. He loves adventure as well as all the other engines and he will do anything to make their lives easier.*

## Timeline

* 1996 (pin-hook couplings, axle boxes, Britt Allcroft licensing, made in China)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2009 (two-way magnets, smaller face, axle boxes removed, small wheels, name on chassis; only available at Target)
* 2012 (updated details, two-way magnets, CG style face, axle boxes moulded onto running board, medium wheels)

### Components

* 2005 (two-way magnets, smaller face, axle boxes removed, small wheels, name embossed on chassis; only available in Rusty and the Rescue Cars; *cancelled individual release*)
* 2006 (name printed on chassis, only available in Rusty and the Rescue Cars, Bonus Free Engine Assortment and Faulty Whistles Collector Pack until 2009)

## Availability

* Thomas the Tank Engine 1996 Engine Assortment
* 6-Piece Gift Set 4
* Rusty and the Rescue Cars
* Bonus Free Engine Assortment (with Hose Car and Emily)
* Faulty Whistles Collector Pack

## Trivia

* While all the other narrow gauge engines were modelled to resemble their Talyllyn Railway counterparts (and Ffestiniog Railway counterpart for Duke's case), Rusty is modelled to resemble his television series model.
* Rusty appears in some of the ERTL Collection pamphlets, despite not being available during its reign.
* Rusty is listed as an upcoming item in the 2005 UK pamphlet, suggesting he was planned to be released that year. This also happened with the Center Island Quarry Playset.
* Rusty's photo on his Take Along collector card is from the episode *Dunkin' Duncan*.
* Rusty's Take Along model was only available in American and Australian multi-packs until 2009, although he was still exclusive to those counties since he was only sold at Target.
	+ This makes him and Hiro the only two characters not to have their Take Along versions released in Europe.

## Gallery

Prototype ERTL RustyERTL Rusty1996-2000 ERTL Rusty box1996-2000 ERTL Rusty collector card1996-2000 international ERTL Rusty collector card2000-2001 ERTL Rusty boxPrototype Take Along RustyTake Along RustyPrototype Take-n-Play RustyTake-n-Play Rusty2012 international Take-n-Play Rusty box
1993

* UK
* US

**1993** was the ninth year of ERTL. It was also the third and final year of the Miniatures range and the second year of the Gold Rail Series. The year also introduced the Pullback Motorised vehicles.

The packaging was changed to fit the Shining Time Station theme in the US and in the UK and Australia to feature character portraits illustrated by Owen Bell. Collector Cards were also introduced this year.

## Available Products

### Sets

US exclusive.

## Gallery

Marvel Comics Display CaseMiniatures advertisement
Thumper

* 2003
* 2000

**Thumper** is a digging machine. As he rolls along, his arms move back and forth.

## Product Description

### **2002 ERTL collector card**

*Thumper often goes out of control, causing minor disruptions. Because of this he is now only used for slate mining. His manner is "cool man" and no job is too big for him.*

### **2003 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Thumper*

*Color(s): Red*

*Bio: Thumper built by the Sodor Mining Company to help speed up the operations at the quarry.*

### **2005 UK Take Along collector card**

*Thumpers manner is “cool man” no job is too big for him. However he often goes out of control causing minor distributions. He was built by the Sodor Mining Company to speed up the operations.*

## Timeline

* 2000 (black windows, flexible arms, white caterpillar threads, Britt Allcroft licensing)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2003 (shorter cab, detailed interior, grey caterpillar threads, two-way magnet at rear, name embossed on chassis; only available at Target until 2005)
* 2006 (name printed on chassis)

## Trivia

* Thumper's Take Along prototype depicts him with grey caterpillar threads, which wouldn’t be grey until the Take Along model.
* Thumper's Take Along prototype has a slightly darker face and depicts his name in black.
* Thumper's Take Along model was released in the large style European box, despite Thumper being the a non-rail vehicle and being small enough for the small style box.
* Thumper is the only pre-2008 non-rail vehicle in Take Along not redesigned with the rear magnet removed.
* A 2007-style collector card for Thumper appears in a YouTube video, although there is no evidence that he was released in this style. This is either an error or it was produced in very low numbers.

## Gallery

Prototype ERTL Thumper2000-2002 Thumper box2002-2004 UK Thumper box2002-2004 UK Thumper collector cardPrototype Take Along ThumperTake Along ThumperFirst 2005 UK Thumper boxSecond 2005 UK Thumper box2006-2007 UK Thumper box
Rocky

* 2010
* 2007

**Rocky** is a friendly breakdown crane who is part of the Search and Rescue Team.

## Product Description

### **2007 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Rocky*

*Colors: Red and Yellow*

*Bio: Rocky is a crane who tackles heavy jobs quickly, quietly and with great care. He's very strong and wants to be everyone's best friend.*

### **2007 UK Take Along collector card**

*Rocky is a crane who tackles heavy jobs quickly, quietly and with great care. He's very strong and wants to be everyone's best friend.*

## Timeline

* 2007 (white roof, light grey winches)
* 2010 (updated details, larger magnetic hook, dark grey roof and winches)

## Trivia

* The prototype Take Along Rocky features a slightly smaller magnet.
* Rocky was the first item to use the 2007-2009 Take Along packaging.
* On his Take Along collector card, Rocky is facing away from the viewer.
* Rocky's Take-n-Play prototype retained the light grey winches from the Take Along model.
* Rocky is one of three Take-n-Play characters not to receive a CGI face despite appearing in the CGI series of the show, the others are Mavis and Alfie.

## Gallery

Prototype Take Along RockyTake Along Rocky2007 UK Take Along Rocky boxTake-n-Play Rocky
Road Bridge

The **Road Bridge** (previously known as the **Bridge Accessory Set**) is a bridge where the road crosses over the railway. There are many bridges around the Island of Sodor.

## Availability

* Sodor Mainline Playtrack
* Bridges and Tunnels Set

## Trivia

* The Fire Engine is shown on its prototype image.
* Thomas and Percy are featured on the 2000 box, with Thomas on siding track and Percy on the bridge.
* This is one of three ERTL accessories released in another range, the others are the Thomas Carry Case Set and Tunnel.
Sodor Mining Co. (set)

This article is about the **set**. You may be looking for the **vehicle**.

**Sodor Mining Co.** (originally known as **Sodor Mining Co. with Electronic Sounds**) is a set. It was later released as a Kohl's exclusive in 2006 and a Toys "R" Us exclusive in 2007.

Vehicles can run over a button on the mine's track which can play chuffing, railroad crossing bells, and whistle sounds. Lowering the coal loader's tipper and pressing the pick-axe also plays sounds. A dumper car can also be moved along a fixed line. The set features stalls which can store up to two large vehicles on the lower level, three small vehicles on the upper level, and other vehicles at the top of the mine. The set can be stored by putting some of the track pieces in the storage area, closing the mine up, and swiveling a latch to lock it in place.

## Contents

* Thomas
* Troublesome Truck with flipping coal load
* Sodor Mining Co.
* Two intersection Straight Track pieces
* Two Curved Track pieces with barriers
* Small sloped curved track piece
* Large sloped double Spur Track piece
* Sticker sheet with signs
* Male and female track adapter (2006-2009)

## Trivia

* The prototype Sodor Mining Co. features a different Troublesome Truck with red buffer beams, two regular curved track pieces, and a red barrier on the side of the mine slope.
* On an official image, Percy, Lady, and James can be seen without front magnets and two Henry's can also be seen.
* The Sodor Mining Co. features two alternative basic layout options by using one or two curved track pieces to create circle layouts.
* The Sodor Mining Co. is not listed on the 2005 US checklists.

## Gallery

Prototype Sodor Mining Co.Troublesome TruckSodor Mining Co. stored up2006 UK Sodor Mining Co. box2006 UK Sodor Mining Co. back of box
Oil Barrel Car

The **Oil Barrel Car** is a Sodor Oil Company cargo car. Pressing the button causes the bed to tip, unloading the magnetic oil barrel.

## Product Description

### **2004 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Oil Barrel Car*

*Color(s): Orange*

*Bio: Oil is a necessity on the Island of Sodor. It’s used to fix squeaky wheels and make the trains go.*

### **2005 UK Take Along collector card**

*The Oil Barrel car works hard transporting oil and grains. The engines find he is always a lot of fun to work with.*

## Timeline

* 2004 (embossed name)
* 2006 (printed name)

## Trivia

* The Oil Barrel Car is a repaint of the Sodor Log Loader. The same design was used for the Scented Orange Barrel Car and Smelter Shed Cargo Car.
* The Oil Barrel Car's prototype had the Sodor Oil Company logo on its oil barrel.
* The Oil Barrel Car's European collector card refers to it as he even though it has no gender.

## Gallery

Prototype Oil Barrel Car2006-2007 UK Oil Barrel Car box
Tidmouth Sheds (destination)

This article is about the **destination**. You may be looking for the **2009** version, **2010** version, **2016** version, or **Tidmouth Sheds Portable Set**.

## Tidmouth Sheds

### Active:

2006-2009 (US)
2007-2009 (UK)

### Item Number:

LC76514

**Tidmouth Sheds** is a destination. It has five stalls which can hold up to five large vehicles. Pressing the buttons on top of the stalls play sounds and open the doors, allowing the vehicles to roll out on to the turntable. The back wall of the sheds can open up to reveal a storage area above the stalls which can hold track or up to nine small vehicles. The open back wall piece features a straight track piece and two sidings built in which can connect to other track pieces.

## Contents

* Gordon
* Tidmouth Sheds
* Turntable
* Two half straight track pieces
* Three track to surface ramps.

## Product Description

### **UK box description**

*After a hard day at work, the engines look forward to returning to Tidmouth Sheds!*
Sodor Mainline Playtrack

* 2002
* 2001

The **Sodor Mainline Playtrack** is a playset.

## Contents

* Dryaw Station
* Harold's Helipad
* Three Straight Track pieces
* Four Curved Track pieces
* Two Points Track pieces
* Two Siding Track pieces
* Level Crossing
* Road Bridge
* Two traffic lights
* Four signals

## Gallery

2001-2002 Sodor Mainline Playtrack box2002 Sodor Mainline Playtrack box2003 Sodor Mainline Playtrack box
Tidmouth Milk Tanker

This article is about **Tidmouth Milk Tanker**. You may be looking for **Tar and Milk Wagons** or **Milk Tanker and Caboose**.

## Details:

### Active:

2002-2004 (US/AUS)
2004 (*shelf date*), 2005-2008 (EUR)

### Item Number:

LC76104

The **Tidmouth Milk Tanker** is a tanker used to haul milk. It is white with a dome on top, and blue lettering on the side that reads "TIDMOUTH MILK". It was sold exclusively in multi-packs in the ERTL range and after being sold individually in Take Along in the US, it was sold in a twin pack with the Sodor Line Caboose, although it was still sold individually in the UK.

## Product Description

### **2002 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Milk Tanker*

*Color(s): White*

*Bio: When milk needs to be delivered on the Island of Sodor, it’s the Milk Tanker Sir Topham Hatt turns to to save the day.*

## Timeline

* 2002 (two-way magnets, diecast design, grey wheels, red running board, axle boxes removed, name embossed on chassis; only available at Target until 2005)
* 2006 (name printed on chassis)

### Components

* 1993 (pin-hook couplings, plastic design, black wheels and running board, axle boxes, Britt Allcroft licensing)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2003 (U-hook rear coupling; only available in the UK)

## Availability

* Tar and Milk Wagons
* Five Pack 2
* 10 Piece Value Set
* Milk Tanker and Caboose

## Trivia

* The Tidmouth Milk Tanker's Take Along model has grey wheels, yet his prototype had the correct black ones. This also happened with James (until 2006), Duck (minus his prototype), Diesel 10, the Sodor Line Caboose, Bertie, Lorry (minus his prototype), Elizabeth and Bulgy (minus his prototype).

## Gallery

Prototype Tidmouth Milk Tanker2005 UK Tidmouth Milk Tanker box
Miniatures

## Range Guide:

The **ERTL Miniatures** is a range of miniature diecast Thomas toys produced by ERTL around 1991. All vehicles had sticker faces and were packaged with a small section of a railway. These sections could be connected to form a whole playset. Most models were eventually adapted into keyrings. The miniatures line was rebranded as Mini World in 2001.

## See also

* Keyring Collection
* Mini World
Stationhouse Playtrack

The **Stationhouse Playtrack** (also stylised as the **Station house Playset**) is a playset depicting Dryaw station.

## Contents

* Dryaw Station
* Three Straight Track pieces
* Eight Curved Track pieces
* Left Hand Switch Track
* Siding Track
* Four Signals
* Two Traffic Lights

## Trivia

* The box also advertises the Turntable Playtrack.
Wellsworth Station Carry-Along Playset

This article is about the **ERTL playset**. You may be looking for the **Take Along playset**.

## Wellsworth Station Carry-Along Playset

### Ranges:

ERTL 1:64 Scale Range (Shining Time Station)

### Components:

12 pieces

**Wellsworth Station Carry-Along Playset** is a playset that depicts Wellsworth Station.

## Contents

* Portable Set
* Wellsworth Station with detachable roof
* 2 houses with detachable roofs
* Harold's Heliport sign
* Toby's Tunnel
* Toby's Tunnel sign
* 3 boom gates
Take Along Thomas

## Take Along Thomas and Friends

* 2007
* 2002

## Range Guide:

**Take Along Thomas and Friends** is a Thomas & Friends die-cast toy range produced by Learning Curve, essentially serving as a successor to the ERTL 1:64 scale range and later The ERTL Collection.

## History

Take Along was originally launched in September 2002 and started out as a Target exclusive until 2005 following the discontinuation of The ERTL Collection, after which the range began being sold in other retailers worldwide. In 2009, the range was discontinued and sold to Mattel, who launched a revamped version in of the merchandise under their subsidiary Fisher-Price. It was renamed Thomas Take-n-Play, which would begin distribution in 2010. The Take Along toys were still compatible with the Take-n-Play range.

## Product Description

### **LearningCurve.com**

*Thomas and Friends Take Along is a preschool play system of pocket-sized, die-cast vehicles, portable playsets and fun accessories. The vehicles were designed with preschoolers in mind from their bright colors, to rounded edges, to 'smart' magnets that connect either way. Little engineers will want to collect them all. Thomas and Friends Take Along is not compatible with Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway*.

## Trivia

* The tender engines have buffers both behind their cabs and on the front of their tenders. This was likely done so that children could play with both parts of a tender engine separately, like including a tender as part of a train, or treating the tender engine as if it were a tank engine.
* Gordon, Spencer, Emily, Murdoch, Freddie, D199, Hiro and Mike have shorter wheel arrangements than they do in the Railway Series and TV Series due to sizing constraints.
* A promotional advertisement picture of the range showed the ERTL models of Bertie and Harold rather than their Take Along ones.
* Many promotional advertisements show tender engines with their tenders on backwards.
* Many Take Along models were used for the Take-n-Play prototypes.
Water Tower (Take Along)

This article is about **the Take Along set**. You may be looking for **the ERTL set**.

## Water Tower

### Item Number:

LC76353

The **Water Tower** (also known as the **Water Tower Destination** in Europe) is a destination. When the spout is lowered, the blue "water" fluid drains to the bottom.

## Contents

* Fergus
* Water Tower
* Straight Track
* Male and Female Track Adapter pieces

## Variants

* Version with red tower from Really Useful Engine Set

## Availability

* Engine Wash and Works Playset
* Wellsworth Station Electronic Playset
* Water Tower Figure 8 Set

## Trivia

* The prototype doesn’t have a name sign.

## Gallery

Prototype Water Tower2006-2007 UK Water Tower Destination box
Sir Topham and Lady Hatt

**Sir Topham and Lady Hatt** (also known as **Sir and Lady Topham Hatt**) is an accessory that includes Sir Topham Hatt and his wife, Lady Hatt.

## Trivia

* Sir Topham and Lady Hatt appear in some of the ERTL Collection pamphlets, despite not being available during its reign. They are also listed as *Lady Hatt and the Fat Controller*.

## Gallery

Early prototype of Lady HattPrototype Sir Topham and Lady HattSir Topham and Lady Hatt box
Mike

* 2015 (II)
* 2015 (I)
* 2008
* 2002

**Mike** (released as **Mike the Miniature Engine** by Take-n-Play in 2015) is a red Small Railway engine who works on the Arlesdale Railway with Rex, Bert, Frank, and Jock.

## Product Description

### **2002 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Mike*

*Color(s): Red*

*Bio: Mike works the Small Railway with his friends Rex and Bert, and likes to boast about his loud and shrill whistle.*

## Timeline

* 2002 (two-way magnets, metal smokebox, separate tender, 0-4-2 arrangement, black wheels, painted buffers, name embossed on chassis, made in China; only available at Target until 2005)
* 2005 (pin and U-hook couplings, 2-8-2 arrangement, side rods added, merged tender; only available in the UK; cancelled)
* 2006 (name printed on chassis)
* 2008 (plastic smokebox)
* 2015 (one-way magnets, CG style face, shorter funnel, dome, and cab, added whistle, blacked out cab, unpainted buffers, red wheels on locomotive, hollowed out counterweights, made in Thailand)
* 2015 (clip couplings; only available in select countries)

## Trivia

* ERTL was planning to release Mike in 2005, but due to the range being discontinued, he was cancelled. This was thought to be a rumour until the 3rd of November 2022 when the prototype was sold on the auction website, Gildings Auctioneers along with Bertie, Agnes, Jemima and The Truck.
	+ Had he been released, this would’ve made Mike the only character released in Take Along before ERTL and possibly the only one of the original three Arlesdale Railway engines to be made in ERTL; it is unknown if Rex or Bert were ever planned.
* Mike's ERTL prototype used James's face.
* Mike's Take Along prototype had a darker livery and a black boiler saddle.
* Mike's Take Along and Take-n-Play models are noticeably smaller compared to other engines, likely to emphasise that he’s a miniature engine.
* Mike's Take-n-Play prototype had a silver smokebox, chassis and magnets, red tender wheels, his tenders is connected by two plastic ring couplers and his nameplates were larger, making the lining inaccurate. The final model has the correct black colour for the smokebox, chassis and wheels, magnets are used to connect the tender to the engine and his nameplates was shrunk, making the lining more accurate. This also happened with Rex the Miniature Engine.
* The Take-n-Play Mike the Miniature Engine box uses a concept artwork image of Mike.

## References

1. ↑ https://www.gildings.co.uk/auction/lot/lot-1162---four-ertl-thomas-the-tank-engine-pre-production-sample-models/?lot=81286&so=0&st=&sto=0&au=203&ef=&et=&ic=False&sd=1&pp=48&pn=13&g=1#
2. ↑ https://www.gildings.co.uk/auction/lot/lot-1164---thirteen-ertl-thomas-the-tank-engine-pre-production-prototype-coaches-trucks-and-people/?lot=81289&so=0&st=&sto=0&au=203&ef=&et=&ic=False&sd=1&pp=48&pn=13&g=1

## Gallery

Prototype Mike2002-2007 Take Along Mike2005 US Mike collector cardPrototype ERTL Mike2005 UK Mike box2006 UK Mike box2008 Take Along MikeTake-n-Play MikeCollectible Railway Mike
StarTheCutie2003 the Tank Engine Characters (March 1st - March 31st 2045)

## StarTheCutie2003 The Tank Engine March 1st 2045

StarTheCutie2003 The Tank Engine (March 1st - March 31st 2045)

## Information

### Defunct

Learning curve Thomas 2045

Characters in March 5th 2045

* Thomas
* Edward
* Henry
* Gordon
* James
* Percy
* Toby
* Terence
* Bertie
* Sir Topham Hatt
* Bob the Tomato
* Larry the Cucumber
* Duck
* Donald
* Douglas
* Lady Hatt
* Annie
* Clarabel
* Diesel
* Henrietta
* Daisy
* Trevor
* Brakevan
* Harold
* Bill
* Ben
* Troublesome Truck #1
* Troublesome Truck #2
* Troublesome Truck #3
* Mavis
* Oliver
* Toad
* Isabel Auto Coach
* Dulcie Auto Coach
* Alice
* Mirabel
* Wilbert
* Sixteen
* Bulgy
* BoCo
* City of Truro
* Flying Scotsman
* Skarloey
* Rheneas
* Sir Handel
* Peter Sam
* Rusty
* Duncan
* Ivo Hugh
* Duke
* Culdee
* Class 40
* Bulstrode
* Stepney
* Smudger
* S.C. Ruffey
* Caroline
* George
* D199
* Bluebell
* Thumper
* Iron 'Arry
* Iron Bert
* Cranky
* Mike
* Bert the Miniature Engine
* Rex the Miniature Engine
* Diesel 10
* Splatter
* Dodge
* Old Stuck-Up
* Derek
* Bertram
* Lady
* Lorry 1
* Lorry 2
* Lorry 3
* Butch
* Diesel D7101
* Biplane
* Godred
* Old Slow Coach
* The Old Engine
Rock Hopper Car

The **Rock Hopper Car** (originally known as **Rock Hopper** outside Europe) is a red hopper. Rotating the hopper fills it with rocks. Pressing the button empties it.

## Trivia

* The Rock Hopper Car's prototype had slightly more weathering than the released version.
* The Rock Hopper Car is a repaint of the Coal Hopper Car.

## Gallery

Prototype Rock Hopper2006 UK Rock Hoper Car box
Thomas and Jet Engine

## Thomas and the Jet Engine

**Thomas and Jet Engine** (originally known as **Thomas and the Jet Engine**) is a pack based on the episode *of the same name*. It includes Thomas with an exclusive smiling face, a Jet Engine with lights and sounds, and a jet fuel tanker.

## Product Description

### **US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Thomas & Jet Engine*

*Color(s): Blue and Silver*

*Bio: Zoom! Thomas goes for the ride of his life when the Jet Engine he is pulling takes off and propels him around the Island of Sodor.*

### **UK Take Along collector card**

*Zoom! Thomas goes for the ride of his life when the Jet Engine he is pulling takes off and propels him around the Island of Sodor.*

## Timeline

* 2004 (metal smokebox on Thomas, embossed names)
* 2006 (printed names)
* 2008 (plastic smokebox on Thomas)

## References

1. ↑ *Thomas & the Jet Engine* in earlier prints
Pamphlet

A **pamphlet** is a small, folded paper sheet that showcases products based on the year the pamphlet was produced and where they are sold. They are included with almost every Thomas diecast product made by ERTL, Learning Curve and Fisher-Price.

## Trivia

* Some pamphlets produced by Learning Curve often promoted other toy lines manufactured by them, such as the Thomas Wooden Railway.
* Pamphlets occasionally did not include items which were seen in checklists and vice versa.

## Gallery

### ERTL

1996 leaflet front1996 leaflet back1997 leaflet front1997 leaflet back
### Take Along

2002 checklist2004 checklist2005 UK pamphlet front2005 UK pamphlet backEarly 2005 checklistLate 2005 checklist
Terence

* 2002
* 1992

**Terence** is a versatile and helpful tractor with caterpillar treads. He plows the fields near Thomas's branch line.

## Product Description

### **1993 ERTL collector card**

*Good old honest Terence. He is teased endlessly by the younger engines about his caterpillar tracks. But he takes it all in good part and gets quietly on with the job, never hesitating to help out when an emergency pull is called for. Slow and steady and always with a smile - that’s Terence.*

### **Historical Note**

*Terence is based on a 1940’s agricultural caterpillar tractor.*

### **Shining Time Station collector card**

*On hand for any emergency, Terence is always relied on to give engines a pull.*

### **2002 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Terence the Tractor*

*Color(s): Orange*

*Bio: Terence is best known (and sometimes teased) for his big "caterpillar" wheels. Still, they come in handy in helping the engines out of tricky situations.*

## Timeline

* 1992 (pin-hook rear coupling, raised plastic caterpillar coverings, black engine, unpainted cab controls, Britt Allcroft licensing)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2002 (bigger face with eyebrows, metal caterpillar coverings that fully reach the wheels, grey engine, painted cab controls, two-way magnet at rear, name embossed on chassis; only available at Target until 2005)
* 2003 (U-hook rear coupling; only available in the UK)
* 2006 (name printed on chassis)
* 2008 (rear magnet removed)

## Availability

* 6-Piece Gift Set 1
* Terence, James and Percy
* 6-Piece Gift Set 3
* Terence and a Flatcar (cancelled)
* 5 Piece Value Set
* Five Pack 3
* All Aboard Toys Gift Pack 1
* Faulty Whistles Collector Pack
* Roadway Collector Pack

## Trivia

* The prototype Take Along Terence features more accurate black caterpillar treads instead of grey.
* Terence's photo on his Take Along collector card is from a promotional image from the episode *Thomas, Terence and the Snow*.

## Gallery

ERTL Terence1992-1993 Terence box1993-2000 Terence box1993-2000 Terence collector card2000-2002 Terence boxPrototype Take Along TerenceTake Along Terence2002 US Terence box
Scented Orange Barrel Car

The **Scented Orange Barrel Car** is a Sodor Orange Grove cargo car. Pressing the button ejects the barrel cargo which can open up to reveal scented orange cargo.

## Product Description

### **2005 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Scented Orange Barrel Car*

*Color: Yellow*

*Bio: The engines have a lot of work to do. To be really useful they need to transport barrels across the Island. This special barrel holds oranges and smell delightful.*

### **2005 UK Take Along collector card**

*The orange scented yellow car helps transport the oranges from the Sodor Orange Grove.*

## Timeline

* 2005 (embossed name)
* 2006 (printed name)

## Trivia

* The Scented Orange Barrel Car's prototype had lighter lettering.
* The Scented Orange Car is a repaint of the Sodor Log Loader. The same design was used for the Oil Barrel Car and Smelter Shed Cargo Car.
* The 2005 UK pamphlet lists it as *Orange Barrel Loader*. This could have been the original name for it before it was changed later on.

## Gallery

Prototype Scented Orange Barrel Car2005 UK Scented Orange Barrel Car box
Thomas Carry Case Set

This article is about the **1994 case**. You may be looking for the **2001 case**.

## Thomas Carry Case Set

### Active:

1994-2004, 2009 (UK)
1994-2001, 2008-2009 (US)
1994-2002, 2006-2009 (AUS)

### Ranges:

ERTL 1:64 Scale Range
The ERTL Collection
Take Along

### Item Number:

4075 (ERTL)
40627 (ERTL; Chad Valley)
LC76433 (Take Along)

**Thomas Carry Case Set** is a 8" long portable case with 9 spaces that can hold up to 13 ERTL items.

## Contents

### ERTL (Chad Valley)

* The Fat Controller
* Thomas
* Troublesome Trucks
* Fire Engine

### Take Along

* Thomas
* James (2006-2008)
* Lady (2006-2008)
* Annie and Clarabel (2006-2009)

## Availability

* 5 Piece Value Set
* 12 Piece Super Set

## Trivia

* This is one of three ERTL accessories released in another range, the others are the Tunnel and Road Bridge.
* The 2009 version does not include Lady and James.
Oliver

This article is about the **engine**. You may be looking for the **excavator**.

* 2017
* 2016
* 2007
* 1994

**Oliver** is a small Great Western tank engine.

## Product Description

### **1994 ERTL collector card**

*Oliver and his brake van Toad were saved from scrap by Douglas and are very grateful to him. Oliver had a new coat of paint of which he is very proud and now works happily on Duck's branch line.*

### **Historical Note**

*Oliver is a 0-4-2 engine. He was restored to his original GWR livery after being saved from scrap.*

### **Shining Time Station collector card**

*Oliver was saved from scrap by Douglas and is very grateful to him. Oliver is very proud of his new coat of paint, and now works on Duck's branch line.*

### **2007 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Oliver*

*Color(s): Green*

*Bio: Oliver was saved from being scrapped by Douglas. He was given a new coat of green paint and now proudly works on Duck's branch line.*

### **2007 UK Take Along collector card**

*Oliver was saved from being scrapped by Douglas. He was given a new coat of green paint and now proudly works on Duck's branch line.*

## Timeline

* 1994 (pin-hook couplings, white running board, metal smokebox, 0-4-2 arrangement, Britt Allcroft licensing, made in China)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2003 (U-hook rear coupling; only available in the UK)
* 2007 (two-way magnets, red running board, side rods removed, name on chassis)
* 2008 (plastic smokebox)
* 2016 (one-way magnets, CG style face, cheaper metal, shorter funnel, dome and cab, unpainted buffers, 0-6-0 arrangement, hollowed out wheel pins, made in Thailand)
* 2017 (clip connectors)

## Availability

* Engine and Curve Track Assortment
* Favorite Friends 3 Pack with Rosie and Stanley
* Hard at Work Set

## Trivia

* Oliver is one of the few engines in the ERTL range with a white running board.
* Oliver's ERTL model was originally dated 1993 on his chassis underneath the model, despite being released in 1994. It is likely that he was planned for release in late 1993, but got delayed to the start of 1994.
* Oliver's ERTL Collection promo art depicts him with black buffers, buffer beams and wheels and a shorter wheelbase.
* Oliver's Take Along prototype has black buffers.
* Oliver is the only one of engines 1-12 who never had a smart magnet Take-n-Play version.
Skarloey

* 2014
* 2011
* 2006
* 1997

**Skarloey** is a wise, old narrow gauge engine. He is one of the oldest engines on the Island of Sodor.

## Product Description

### **1997 ERTL collector card**

*Skarloey is a tough little engine who works hard but, because of his age, tires easily. Sharing the workload with Rheneas, his sole purpose in life is to work hard and uphold the fine reputation of his railway. Always concerned about the well-being of passengers, he is well respected by the other engines and drivers.*

### **Historical Note**

*Skarloey is based on a narrow gauge, industrial tank engine, built in England in the 1860s.*

### **2006 US Take Along collector card**

*Name: Skarloey*

*Color: Red*

*Bio: Skarloey is a very chipper, hard worker. He is a proper engine who is eager to help out when needed.*

### **2006 UK Take Along collector card**

*Skarloey is a very chipper, hard worker.*

## Timeline

* 1997 (pin-hook couplings, 0-4-2 arrangement, metal smokebox, gold band around funnel, Britt Allcroft licensing, made in China)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2003 (U-hook rear coupling; only available in the UK)
* 2006 (two-way magnets, yellow band around funnel, 0-6-0 arrangement with small wheels, side rods removed, name on chassis)
* 2008 (plastic smokebox)
* 2011 (updated details, CG style face, band around funnel removed, round pistons)
* 2014 (cheaper metal, gold lining on pistons, hollowed out wheel pins, made in Thailand)

## Availability

* Thomas the Tank Engine 1997 Engine Assortment
* 6-Piece Gift Set 5
* Engine and Point Track Assortment
* Sodor Gift Set 1
* Roundhouse Deluxe Pack
* Engine Belt
* Lights and Sounds Drawbridge
* Skarloey at the Wharf

## Trivia

* Skarloey's ERTL prototype had black lining, silver buffers and the hand-rail above his smokebox.
* Skarloey's ERTL Collection promo art depicts him with grey wheels.
* The January 2003 magazine lists Skarloey as being reintroduced even though he wasn’t discontinued the previous year.
* Skarloey's Take Along and Take-n-Play models both share the same goof of being 0-6-0s instead of 0-6-2s.
The Fat Controller Wind-Up Walking Figure

**The Fat Controller Wind-Up Walking Figure** (also released as **Sir Topham Hatt Wind-Up Walking Figure** in the US) is a wind-up version of Sir Topham Hatt.

## Product Description

### **Shining Time Station collector card**

*After he was awarded a knighthood for his services to the railway industry he became Sir Topham Hatt.*

## Trivia

* In the Shining Time Station range, Sir Topham Hatt Wind-Up Walking Figure was released within the die-cast range and given a collector card number, although it was part of the wind-up range outside of the Shining Time branding.
* The Fat Controller Wind-Up Walking Figure appeared in the Sooty episode *Jigsaw*.

## Gallery

Prototype The Fat Controller Wind-Up Walking FigurePrototype The Fat Controller Wind-Up Walking Figure and an early Duck1990-1993 The Fat Controller Wind-Up Walking Figure box1993-1998 The Fat Controller Wind-Up Walking Figure box
Track

This page is for **track** pieces that are not sold individually.

## Turntable Track

The **Turntable** is a track plate that rotates engines and rolling stock around onto other track or to switch their direction.

### Timeline

* 1993 (light plastic design, sticker track)
* 1994 (more realistic border design, only available in Thomas Playtrack)
* 1996 (larger version, separate track piece, simple grey design)
* 2002 (detailed design, coloured track and plant surrounding)

### Availability

* Railyard Carry-Along Playset
* Seaport Playset
* Thomas Playtrack
* Turntable Playtrack
* Deluxe Playtrack
* Roundhouse and Carry Case Deluxe Set
* Roundhouse Portable Playset
* Thomas Turntable and Video Playset
* Turntable and Engine Shed Accessory Set

### Trivia

* The turntable may be the first track piece ever made, predating all other track by 3 years.

## Information

### Ranges:

ERTL 1:64 Scale Range
The ERTL Collection
Take Along
Take-n-Play

### First Appearance

Branch Line Playtrack (*1996*)

**Siding Track** is track that ends with a siding on one side. This is to stop engines and rolling stock from coming off the tracks and to keep them stable when not in use.

### Timeline

* 1996 (larger version, simple grey design)
* 2002 (detailed design, coloured track and plant surrounding)

### Availability

* Branch Line Playtrack
* Turntable Playtrack
* Water Tower
* Crane
* Deluxe Playtrack
* Level Crossing
* Stationhouse Playtrack
* Real Sounds Playset
* Windmill
* Station House Playtrack Giftset
* Quarry Loading Accessory Set
* Thomas and the Magic Railroad Gift Set
* Thomas Playset
* Sodor Mainline Playtrack
* Roundhouse and Carry Case Deluxe Set
* Thomas Turntable and Video Playset
* Sodor Viaduct Bridge Playset
* Sodor Quarry Set

## Ascending Track

**Ascending Track** is track that ascends and descends.

## See also

* Straight Track
* Curved Track
* Points Track
Tar and Fuel Car

This article is about **Tar and Fuel Car**. You may be looking for **Sodor Fuel Wagon**.

## Details:

### Item Number:

LC76110

**Tar and Fuel Car** (originally known as **Fuel Car and Tar Tanker**) are a pair of tankers that includes the Sodor Fuel and Tar tankers. The Fuel Car was released individually in Europe and the *Sodor Fuel Wagon*.

## Product Description

### **2004 Take Along collector card**

*Name: Tar and Fuel Car*

*Color(s): Yellow and Black*

*Bio: The Tar & Fuel Tankers are often seen on the Sodor Railways. They assist the engines in transporting valuable goods.*

## Timeline

* 2004 (embossed names)
* 2006 (printed names)

## References

1. ↑ *Fuel Car & Tar Tanker* in earlier prints
Patchwork Hiro

* 2013
* 2010

**Patchwork Hiro** is a variant of Hiro based on the movie *Hero of the Rails*, in which Hiro is secretly being repaired with many spare parts.

## Timeline

* 2010 (two-way magnets, 18 wheels with eight on tender, made in China)
* 2013 (updated body, made in Thailand)
* 2016 (one-way magnets, 10 wheels with four on tender, painted window details)
* 2016 (clip connectors, 10 wheels with four on tender, painted window details, plastic tender; only available in select countries)

## Trivia

* The prototype Take-n-Play 2010 Patchwork Hiro picture shows the tender coupled backwards.
* The Take-n-Play 2016 Patchwork Hiro features a green smokebox instead of a black one.
* The Take-n-Play 2016 Patchwork Hiro box art promo features Hiro with a mirrored nameplate.
Percy with Annie and Clarabel

**Percy with Annie and Clarabel** (also known as **Percy the Small Engine with Annie and Clarabel**) is a multi-pack which includes Percy, Annie and Clarabel.

## Product Description

### **Shining Time Station Collector Card**

#### **Percy the Small Engine**

*Happy puffing around the yard with no particular desire for adventure, Percy is a happy little chap.*

#### **Annie and Clarabel**

*Annie and Clarabel are Thomas's faithful coaches. Note: Annie has a round mouth and Clarabel has a cresent shaped mouth.*

## Timeline

* 1988 (paper face on Percy)
* 1990 (3D plastic face on Percy)

## Trivia

* Initially this was the only pack that these three characters shared.
* This pack and Thomas with Annie and Clarabel are the only packs to be given portrait numbers, albeit exclusively in the Shining Time Station range.
* It’s also the only item with two portrait numbers in the same style of packaging.

## Gallery

1988-1989 Percy with Annie and Clarabel box1990-1993 Percy with Annie and Clarabel UK box
Thomas Die-Cast Wiki

**Welcome to the Thomas the Tank Engine Die-Cast Wiki**

This wiki is all about all the die-cast Thomas and Friends ranges and their items. From Ertl to Trachmaster Push-Along. We're a collaborative community website about the Thomas Die-Cast ranges that anyone, including you, can build and expand. Wikis like this one depend on readers getting involved and adding content. Read our rules then click the "ADD NEW PAGE" or "EDIT" button at the top of any page to get started!

EnginesRolling StockOther VehiclesPacksOther VariantsSets

***Help:***

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This wiki is dedicated to the Thomas & Friends die-cast ranges. You can help by adding a page or editing an existing one.

**Users:** Please read our rules and don't break them. Should you do so you will be given a warning and then blocked should you do it again. Also this wiki is about content for under thirteen year olds so don't be silly and inappropriate. Thank you!
Sodor Mail Coaches

This article is about **the Sodor Mail Coaches**. You may be looking for **the Mail Car**.

## Details:

### Active:

1995-2004 (UK)
1995-2001 (US)
1995-2002 (AUS)

### Ranges:

ERTL 1:64 Scale Range
The ERTL Collection

### Portrait Number:

34 (1995)
43 (STS)
93 (2002)

### Item Number:

4371

The **Sodor Mail Coaches** are a pair of coaches that carry mail around the Island. They are usually pulled by Percy.

## Product Description

### **1995 ERTL collector card**

*The Sodor Mail Coaches ensure fast and efficient mail delivery service. The mail for the townsfolk is picked up by the engines and sorted on the move, just like the typical mobile sorting offices that were designed and built around the 1940s.*

### **Historical Note**

*Britain pioneered mail sorting on the move, resulting in a fast and efficient national mail delivery service.*
*The Sodor Mail Coaches are based on the typical mobile sorting offices that were designed and built around the 1940s.*

### **2002 ERTL collector card**

*All of the Island's mail is sorted in these important coaches before being passed onto the likes of Tom Tipper for delivery to all of Sodor's residents and businesses.*

## Timeline

* 1995 (pin-hook couplings, Britt Allcroft licensing)
* 2001 (Gullane licensing)
* 2003 (U-hook rear couplings)

## Variants

* 4-wheel version from Pull ‘n Zoom! Percy

## Trivia

* The Sodor Mail Coaches's models would later be reused for the Express Coaches.
* The Sodor Mail Coaches's ERTL Collection portrait depicts them with a reddish brown livery.

## Gallery

Prototype Sodor Mail Coaches1995-2000 Sodor Mail Coaches box1995-2000 Sodor Mail Coaches collector card2000-2002 Sodor Mail Coaches box2002-2004 Sodor Mail Coaches box2002-2004 Sodor Mail Coaches collector card
Prototype/Take-n-Play

## 2010

### Vehicles

ThomasPercySaltyQuarry CarDiesel 10JamesEmilyGordonHenryMollyDieselRosieEdwardSpencerMavisStanleyTobyMighty MacSir HandelDukeMurdochMadgeWhiffBill and BenHaroldAlfieAnnie and ClarabelSodor Supply Co.Troublesome TruckDiesel Fuel TankerSir Topham Hatt's CarKellyByronElizabethThomas and the TreasureIsobella
## 2011

### Vehicles

SkarloeyJackDonaldDouglasD199RheneasButch