Ep 1. Train Wreck

In the season 7 premiere of American Pickers, titled "Train Wreck," viewers are taken on a journey through the Rust Belt of America as Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz search for hidden treasure amongst the sprawling junkyards and flea markets of Ohio.

The episode begins with Mike and Frank driving through the town of Xenia, Ohio. As they drive by abandoned buildings and overgrown fields, the duo discusses the unique challenges of pickings in the Rust Belt, where the harsh winters and dwindling populations have left many once-thriving communities in disarray.

Their first stop is a small junkyard owned by a man named Jim, who has amassed a collection of old cars, trucks, and machinery over the years. Mike and Frank quickly spot a rusted-out 1960s Chevy pickup and a vintage wooden sled, both of which they believe could fetch a good price back in Iowa.

After negotiating with Jim, the guys load up their finds and hit the road once again. Their next stop is at a local flea market, where they meet a man named Dan who claims to have a unique piece of American history: an original steam locomotive whistle from the 1800s.

Mike and Frank are skeptical at first, but after examining the whistle and doing some research, they discover that it could be worth thousands of dollars. They strike a deal with Dan and continue on their journey.

The guys then make their way to a sprawling junkyard owned by two brothers, Herm and Dave. The yard is filled with old trucks, tractors, and machinery, but the real treasure is hidden inside an old barn on the property.

Inside, Mike and Frank discover a hoard of vintage motorcycles, including a rare Indian Chief that dates back to the 1930s. They also stumble upon a vintage steam-powered washing machine, which they believe will be a hit with collectors.

As they load up their finds and prepare to leave, Herm and Dave offer the guys a chance to witness something truly special: the destruction of an old car using a rocket-powered sled.

Mike and Frank watch in awe as the car is launched into the air and crashes down to the ground in a fiery explosion. Despite the destruction, they walk away from the junkyard with a newfound appreciation for the ingenuity and creativity of the Rust Belt.

Overall, "Train Wreck" is an entertaining and informative episode of American Pickers that showcases the unique challenges and rewards of picking in the Rust Belt. Mike and Frank's passion for uncovering hidden treasures is infectious, and viewers are sure to be inspired to start their own treasure hunts after watching this episode.