Continuity mistake: The sign says: "Danger - engines must not pass this board." When Thomas passes it, "board" is replaced with "point."
Continuity mistake: Gordon's connecting rods change position after he pulls Thomas out of the mine.
Other mistake: When Thomas shunts Annie and Clarabel his eyes look wonky and Annie and Clarabel are missing their names.
Answer: Butch the breakdown truck must have pulled Gordon's tender all the way up the rails so the breakdown train can reach it and also Butch helped to get Gordon close to the winch.