Thomas the Train Trackmaster: The Ultimate Guide for Collectors
Thomas the Train Trackmaster toys are super fun for kids and grown-ups who love to collect them! These motorized trains let you build amazing tracks and watch Thomas and his friends zoom around. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Thomas and Friends Trackmaster, including rare trains, special sets, and tips for building your collection.
What Makes Thomas the Train Trackmaster Special?
Thomas and Friends Trackmaster trains are battery-powered and run on plastic tracks. These tracks connect in different ways so you can create your own Island of Sodor. The trains are larger than wooden Thomas trains and can go up hills, through tunnels, and across bridges all by themselves!
Trackmaster has been around for many years, and there are two main types:
- Classic Trackmaster (2007–2014) – Older trains and tracks, now rare.
- Trackmaster II (2014–present) – Newer trains with different track designs.
Collectors love both versions because each has special trains and sets that make them fun to collect!
Popular Thomas and Friends Trackmaster Engines
There are so many Thomas and Friends engines to collect! The most common engines are:
✔ Thomas
✔ Edward
✔ Henry
✔ Gordon
✔ James
✔ Percy
✔ Toby
But there are many more friends to find! Some collectors have over 75 different engines in their collection!
Special & Rare Engines
Collectors love finding rare Trackmaster engines. Some were only made for a short time, making them very hard to find today. Some of the most valuable include:
⭐ Oliver – One of the rarest Trackmaster engines.
⭐ Splatter – A villain from Thomas and the Magic Railroad.
⭐ Silver Thomas – A special metallic edition.
⭐ Muddy Thomas – A version covered in “mud” from a special set.
⭐ Glow-in-the-Dark Thomas – A cool, glowing version!
Finding these rare engines is one of the most exciting parts of collecting!
Amazing Thomas Trackmaster Sets
Trackmaster isn’t just about the trains—the sets are just as fun! These sets include tracks, bridges, and special places from Thomas and Friends.
One of the most popular sets is “Thomas’ Daring Drop.” This set has a super tall bridge for Thomas to cross. A collector once said, “I really like the bridge feature and the detail is extraordinary.”
Other fun sets include:
🚂 Castle Quest Set – Inspired by King of the Railway.
🚂 Shipwreck Rails Set – Features a thrilling drop!
🚂 Super Station – A massive set that holds over 100 engines!
These sets connect together, so you can build your own giant Thomas world!
How to Start Collecting Thomas Trackmaster Trains
Starting a Thomas Trackmaster collection is easy and fun! Here’s how:
1️⃣ Find Trains & Sets
Many stores sell Trackmaster trains, but collectors often look in special places to find rare trains:
- Online stores & auctions – Great for finding retired trains.
- Collector groups & forums – Meet other collectors and trade!
- Garage sales & thrift stores – You might find hidden gems!
If you’re new to collecting, start with your favorite engine and build from there!
2️⃣ Build Your Thomas World
Once you have trains and tracks, you can start building!
- Connect tracks into loops, bridges, and tunnels.
- Add scenery like trees, buildings, and stations.
- Use battery-powered engines like Thomas, Percy, and James to bring it all to life!
Some collectors make huge layouts that look just like the Island of Sodor!
3️⃣ Take Care of Your Collection
Collectors know that taking care of Trackmaster trains is very important:
✔ Keep them clean – Wipe them with a soft cloth.
✔ Store them safely – Use shelves or boxes to prevent damage.
✔ Remove old batteries – Batteries can leak and ruin your trains!
If you want your collection to stay valuable, try to keep the original boxes too!
How Valuable Are Thomas Trackmaster Trains?
Some Trackmaster trains can become very valuable, especially if they are:
✔ Over 25 years old (vintage).
✔ In perfect condition (no scratches or missing parts).
✔ Rare or limited edition (like Oliver or Silver Thomas).
For example, some rare Wooden Railway Thomas trains have sold for hundreds of dollars, and Trackmaster trains are becoming more valuable too!
Even if you’re not collecting for value, keeping your trains in good shape makes them last longer and look great!
Why People Love Collecting Thomas Trackmaster Trains
Collecting Trackmaster trains is about more than just toys—it’s about:
💙 Finding rare engines – The thrill of the hunt!
💙 Building amazing tracks – Creating your own adventures.
💙 Sharing the fun – Many collectors enjoy showing off their setups!
💙 Remembering childhood memories – Many adults started playing with Thomas as kids!
Kids love Trackmaster because it helps them be creative, solve problems, and have fun!
Conclusion
Thomas and Friends Trackmaster trains bring joy to collectors of all ages! Whether you have just one train or hundreds, each Trackmaster engine and set lets you bring the magic of the Island of Sodor into your home.
If you’re just starting your Trackmaster collection, start with engines and sets you love. As your collection grows, you might find yourself searching for rare trains like Oliver or Splatter.
The most important part? Have fun! 🚂💙