Air date: September 19th, 2004 (UK), October 30th, 2004 (US)
Gordon thinks pulling the express makes him the most important engine on Sodor. When Gordon is departing from Brendam Docks, Diesel is cross when he has to move to let Gordon through and, to spite him, tells Gordon that steam engines will soon be scrapped. Gordon thinks it's nonsense, but when he starts to hear a squeaking noise from his wheels, he starts to fear that Diesel may be telling the truth, but he discovers that if he goes slow the squeak disappears. The next day, Gordon is given the job of taking the Fat Controller and some children to Brendam for a boating trip and starts noticing a rattle. Gordon realises that this will be his last run and vows to go out in style. At Brendam, the Fat Controller notices the noise, but doesn't send Gordon to be scrapped; he sends Gordon to the repair yard.
Tropes featured in the episode:
- Heroic Sacrifice: After discovering that he has developed a squeak, Gordon initially intends to go slow to avoid making too much noise and to stop the Fat Controller finding out. However, when he's given the job of taking the Fat Controller and some children to Brendam for a boating trip, he realizes that if he goes too slow, they'll miss their boat, and decides that he'll get them there on time, even if it means he'll be scrapped. Luckily, that doesn't happen, but the intention is there.
- Jerk with a Heart of Gold: Gordon, big time. See Heroic Sacrifice for details.
- "The Reason You Suck" Speech: Diesel gives one to Gordon regarding his prejudice against steam engines.Diesel: "You steamies are old, and clapped out. When the Fat Controller realizes this you'll all be scrapped."
