Thomas and the Trucks retitled to Trouble for Thomas in American releases, is the sixth episode of the first season of Thomas & Friends. It was first aired in the UK on 23rd October 1984.
Plot
Thomas is still upset over having to shunt coaches in the yard, and constantly complains about it to the larger engines, every night at Tidmouth Sheds. Thomas instead wishes that he could 'see the world'. The other engines are fed up with Thomas, as they are constantly having to listen to his complaints. Edward however feels sorry for Thomas, and offers Thomas the task of pulling his goods train, while he does Thomas' job. A delighted Thomas agrees.
The following morning, both engines' crews agree to switching jobs, and Thomas soon arrives at the yard. The Troublesome Trucks, as their name implies, are full of mischief and often don't pay attention to what their doing. They also enjoy tricking engines who aren't used to their behavior. Edward who was well aware of the Trucks behavior, warned Thomas to be careful with them, but Thomas took no notice, as he was too excited at the chance to pull the train. In a hurry, Thomas begins pulling the train, and despite the trucks telling him that they aren't ready, Thomas continues on his way.
Thomas goes very fast on his journey, much to the trucks' annoyance. At Gordon's Hill, Thomas finally slows down, and applies his breaks upon reaching the hill's top. The trucks however, begin pushing him down the hill very fast. The trucks cause Thomas to speed through Maron, and eventually into the goods yard buffers. The Fat Controller, who saw everything, questions Thomas as to why he was going so fast. After explaining everything, The Fat Controller tells Thomas that he has a lot to learn about trucks, and gives him the punishment of shunting them in the yard for several weeks, so as he can learn to become a 'Really Useful Engine'.
CITV Broadcast
The episode originally aired in the UK alongside Thomas' Train, in a television block lasting eleven minutes and ten seconds. The series was introduced by Sergeant Major Zero from Terrahawks, another of CITV's shows from the 1980's.
PBS Broadcast
When the episode first aired it was paired up with the spinoff series "Shining Time Station" episode "And the Band Played Off" It was later paired with the Episode "Jingle, Jingle, Jingle" and "Wildlife".
Video
