On the one hand I love starter sets. They include everything one needs to run trains, like right now! On the other hand, if you've been in the hobby for any amount of time, it's likely you already have track and transformer, and only really need the engine with it's controller and the cars. Also, set boxes take up a lot of space. Before we get started I have to make a correction.
***CORRECTION***
I had referred to the engine as a 'Mills' Class 4-6-0. However, it appears as if the real engine used in the Harry Potter films, upon which Lionel's is based, is actually a 'Hall' Class. It was built in 1937 at Swindon Works for the Great Western Railway and was designated '5972 Olton Hall'.
Ed
LionChief engines are equipped with circuitry which is managed by handheld controllers like this. Each controller has graphics on the front which identifies the engine it controls. However, you can also use the LionChief app for your smartphone.
Courtesy Lionel
The road number on the side of the Hogwarts Express engine is '5972'
Here's the LionChief app on my phone. Once you turn on the track power, the engine will make a series of 'bird chirp' sounds while it searches for a controller to pair with. Bring up the app on your phone. The app will display the road number for the engine it will link up to, in this case '5972'. Link the app with the engine and you're all set.
Mills Class 4-6-0 engine.
Unlike American steam engines, many British engines have names. We tend to call engines by their railroad and road number. The best example I can think of is the Union Pacific 4014 Big Boy ('Big Boy' was the name given to the 4-8-8-4 class of engines, not the name of the individual machine).
The semi-circular herald above the steam chest and middle drivers says 'HOGWARTS CASTLE'.
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