I had a Lionel Super Chief train set when I was 6 years old, and enjoyed it. We had to move, so I gave it to my Grandfather to keep for me, and would run it in his basement when we visited. When I saw this set I knew I had to get it for nostalgia's sake if not to run. To my surprise, my wife is enjoying it also and has "talked me into" adding some enhancements (more track, crossing gates, an operating milk car). The passenger cars have constant LED lighting, and the locomotive has realistic sounds. I would recommend this set as a starter set for children 7 and up (perhaps with supervision for the younger ages. Lionel offers an app for smart phones or iPad - I would strongly recommend this since it allows you to adjust the volume of the sounds, and limit the top speed (important if youngsters are operating - the locomotive can go pretty fast).Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
This is exactly what I wanted and expected. I have no problems running it on my small 6" x 17" dual track layout. It takes the grade with no power loss and the Diesel horn is awsome. I love watching travel around in the dark. The light in the passenger cars make the people I put in them look real. Well packaged and arrived in a timely manner.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
I just got back into wanting a train again. I used to have MTH and Lionel engines, lots of cars, track and transformers. I swore I wouldn't go back down the path of expense along with storage, set-up, wires and track. Christmas hit this year and I couldn't get the thought out of my mind that I needed to see a train under the tree. So, I first purchased the Polar Express ready to run set. I discovered that these trains now use DC motors and they utilize a remote control. It's easier to set them up and connect the power source. They also now use a different style track (Fast Track) and the track is constantly powered which allows for lighted cars and engine to be lighted at all times. I can see where adding accessories might be more interesting now too, something I haven't indulged in as of yet. I still had one 4X8 foot table which I used to use for under the tree and, after I purchased this Sante Fe set, I used the extra track that came with it (along with the Polar Express track and two new 5" sections) and screwed track onto the board for next year's Christmas. I see there are various ready to assemble track kits which look interesting too. These newer trains took me a little time to get a handle on, but I like the direction Lionel took in their updated operating design. The DC motors also allow them to run very slow and steady. They also have nice on-board sounds. I'll probably add a car or track accessory to these two trains this upcoming Christmas.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
The Santa Fe Chief was the best train service in the west. I was born in 1945 so I can remember that time and place. This train set is the best it can be a whistle, a bell, engine sound and anouncements. The shiney sides of the whole train is a great copy of the original. Michael A. Nolan (viet nam vet 66=67)
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
The train set came in original box which was then shrink wrapped and shipped. It was gouged in by where the engine sat due to only plastic being in the section of the box. I would suggest an outer box versus the tape to minimize damage. The engine had a loose painted figurine which I had to take off the cab and superglue back into place (assume this came from shipping) and train would not pick up power and kept cutting out. I cleaned the track and rollers and now it’s running strong. Overall a solid value versus new retail.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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