@Vernon Barry posted:That would be top of the list things to fix.
I know you may not understand, but that perfectly explains most of these issues.
#1 many MTH engines that have 2/3 rail capability may not pick up on all wheels/axle sets, so being a one side outer rail connected track, that can wreak havoc with track signal and power problems.
#2 Same problem contributes to any engine losing power- example the Lionel.
I do understand the concept of more connections the better they are and less packets lost. Not being familiar with the newer engines, (having traction tires insulating the wheels from the track) and not seeing the recommendation for connecting two outer rails together mentioned in MTH documentation, it was never considered. I was going to use the third rail (not connected to common) as an occupancy detection switch. (maybe a current sense needs to be re-investigated). Guess that needs to be re-thunk. 
Thanks for all the help, it is truly needed and appreciated. This morning I did get my remotes reloaded from a backup file. So those recognize the engines. My one RS-3 Eire Lackawanna engine that could not be found was flashed and sound files loaded. I am hoping it will stay functioning. I will get sometime tomorrow to start testing the track and connections.
