I really appreciate all your thoughts. What prompted me to reset was the delays I am experiencing in communication between the DCS/TIU/engine. Yes indeed, the system seems to be struggling, much like a slow running or looping computer. Derails have happened, many in fact in two decades and that causes the z--4000 to remove power, and I fix derailment and power up. No wiring changes, and the problem is the same with the three foot isolated test track. I am hoping that gunrunnerjohn is right this 18 year old TIU is tired.
Good idea about testing the TIU elsewhere but I am a full day round trip with ferry rides from support as we live in a small town. Ill get back to you when the new TIU is here. There is nothing left to try I think.