John,
It is very disappointing to pre order these built to order products only to receive problems more often than not. At least your dealer will take them back. Most tell you to deal with Lionel.
I have had impressively perfect trains from Lionel. The 21" BN, Amtrak, and recent BNSF oil train among others are beautiful flawless trains. Whatever the common thread is that causes bouts of problems like this vs. perfection other times needs identified by Lionel management and corrected. I am very appreciative of Lionel making many of these sets, Amtrak, Penn Central, etc. It is a shame that sometimes they have great ideas, but hit or miss quality. I hate having to post these negative comments but it is meant constructively and I am hopeful they can listen, and correct.
