shinkansen last and first run livery 3-pack

i took this set to the club last night, keen to break the tape, open the bags and insert some batteries.



the first loco ran well, as did the last. the middle one, however, took a lot of encourangment! i put the battery in, nothing. i shook it, thumped it against my palm, ran the wheels back and forth, tried a new battery... nothing.
my friend blair got the volt meter and checked the terminals. he gave that metal tab that goes from the motor to the battery terminals a firm press, and it moved, making contact. i tried again, with no result for a while. i forced the wheels again and finally it flared into life.
the terminals on this one are a little corroded, which is weird given its never been used at all. will give them a clean with fine sandpaper.

all 3 engines need lube desperately, which is the main reason why i opened them.

i also took the metallic plarail thomas set, which ran like a dream. again, lube is needed, but nothing major. they are gorgeous running and received mixed remarks. blair had his 3yr old nephew there, and he was in love!