Thanks all! I just spent some time with the E8 since I may not keep it, the ABA being too big for my layout/room with the matching passenger cars. I did the obvious thing I didn't think of, which was put a 9 volt in and try it that way. Conventional with ZW it fired right up and worked as it should. So that is one test solved and all ok. GG1 is next when I have an hour later this week to test...
Once tested I'll sort a permanent battery plan