"Well, this may spark some outrage, but I would send the entire thing back. The more you tinker with it, the unhappier you will be."
Can't imagine why anyone would be outraged with your approach. Sounds like it works for you very well. That's all that matters.
I agree that messing with newly purchased defective or otherwise unsatisfactory purchases is likely to be frustrating and disappointing. Dealers of any repute, and certainly Amazon, will take stuff back for a refund or exchange. I have not been impressed with Amazon prices on Lionel stuff by and large. I think they are representing independent Lionel dealers and thus you are thus relying on whoever that is to provide new and quality product at a reasonable price. But Amazon takes stuff back no questions asked and usually ships for free, so there's only the disappointment and inconvenience of packing up the stuff, slapping on the return label and running down to the UPS or Fedex facility.
I would return the items and possibly order similar stuff from Charles Ro or another reputable dealer (Nicholas Smith, Trainworld, Nassau Hobby, etc.) if you don't have one locally. The price will be more favorable than Amazon in most cases, and Ro stands behind their products. Just one person's experiences over the last 30+ years.
