Okay.  I'm going to do some train surgery and will report back.  It did come with the EZ track set. 

But, like someone else mentioned, it does seem like only the back wheels are "powered".....does that makes sense?  I don't know if the engine is supposed to be like that or not.

We DID use it on the carpet the first time.  Is there a good way to clean out the engine in case of any carpet debris?  Would a can of air work?  We only used it the one day before putting it away (we've only had it about 2 weeks) and then upon pulling it out the second time finding it running improperly.

Thanks for your help so far!!

Hi all.  I hope you don't mind my asking our question.  My son received the Bachmann Rail King HO set for his birthday.  We set it up, no problems.  The train ran quite fast at full speed (while pulling the additional cars it came with).  We put the set away and have pulled it out and set it up twice since then. 

Each time since it's initial run, it has not run as fast.  Not only does it not run at it's previous full speed, it can't pull all the cars- if we connect all 4 additional cars, even at full speed it sounds like it's straining the engine and goes at a snail's pace.

Do you have any ideas of what we can trouble shoot?  I've put the track together each time; I know it's securely connected.  We were careful with the engine......I'm just at a loss as to why the sudden HUGE drop in speed and performance.

Thanks for all your help- I'd appreciate any insight!