The black button on top of the dome is the start/stop button, the bell is the on/off switch, put the batteries in the tender plug it into the engine and if the headlight does not come on, turn the bell, once the headlight comes on press the button on the dome and it should go forward. Now I'm not sure but if you press it again and the engine stops, then press it agian I beleive it will go in reverse. It will run without track but not likely very well, it really should have track.
Now this engine DID come with a R/C controller, but the frequency might vary from one to the other or its only one frequency for all Sclientific trains, I still have a couple of these engines layout around I scavenged for parts as they are very inexpensive, I hope you didnt spend too much on EvilBay, prices there are getting really insane, considering that you used to able to get the complete train set online thru KB toys and Amazon for about $50. unfortunatly they seem to be unavalable anymore, they were everywhere at christmas.
http://www.amazon.com/Grand-Canyon-Express-Remote-Control-Train/sim/B0006N8XZK/2
http://www.amazon.com/Grand-Canyon-Express-Train-Set/dp/B0006H8O5K/ref=pd_sxp_grid_i_0_2
Have fun with your trains
Greetings, first let me say thank you for getting your son interested in trains I've noticed that kids brought up around trains have better social skills when they are older probably because there is such an attraction to trains and they invite sharing, conversation and play time friendships.
now about your problem, I would try two things, First I would email the person you bought it from and ask if they have any knowledge of how to run it and second I would do an internet search go to http://www.google.com by clicking this link and in the search box put in the name of the toy and the word directions after the name and see what pops up.
I've learned the internet has info on just about anything you can think of, also look for a manufacturers name on the toy and try contacting them.
I wish you luck on your search and hope that it is up and running soon.
Jess Red Horse of the Blackfeet Nation.
I just bought from ebay a rio grande scientific toy steam engine and tender. the tender take 6 c batteries and the the engine looks like its switch is a little black button on one of the domes. my question is, these are the only 2 things I have can they run on their own or is there a remote that is needed and will they run without track. please help, I am new to the train world and am building a raised set in my sons (6 year old) room as his decor he is train mad and has a o gauge lionel set,
thanks
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