Thomas and the Breakdown Train

"I'd like to teach those trucks a lesson."

- Thomas

Thomas and the Breakdown Train, retitled Thomas Saves the Day in American releases, is the seventh episode of the first season.

Plot
Thomas discovers the breakdown train and is told the reasons why it is used. Before long, James has an accident with his trucks and Thomas must take the breakdown train to help him. The Fat Controller is so pleased, he gives Thomas his own branchline.

Characters

 * Thomas
 * Gordon
 * James
 * Sir Topham Hatt
 * Henry (does not speak)
 * Annie and Clarabel (do not speak)
 * Edward (cameo)

Locations

 * Tidmouth Sheds
 * Elsbridge
 * Gordon's Hill (deleted scene)

Trivia

 * This episode is based on the story of the same name from The Railway Series book, Thomas the Tank Engine.
 * In the restored version, an extended shot of the signalman shouting "James is off the line! The breakdown train, quickly!" is shown.
 * Stock footage from Thomas and the Trucks is used.
 * A rare picture shows the breakdown train without buffers.

Goofs

 * The works unit coach wasn't coupled to the breakdown train.
 * When Thomas takes on water, his water cap isn't open.
 * In the close-up of James' wheels on fire, a small metal rod is creating the sparks and it appears to have lifted up his front bogie.
 * Thin wires are used, along with the cranes, to lift James back on the rails.
 * A truck is shunted into view as James and Thomas leave, but Thomas was the only engine working at the scene of the accident.
 * When Thomas and James return to Tidmouth, the puffing noise continues after they stop.
 * In some photos, the breakdown crane is missing its buffers.

Episode
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