New VL will not work in command (leagcy or TMCC) mode

That's what I thought too.

I did try it with Bluetooth "off" earlier and just tried it again.  Same unhappy result.

Interestingly, I just ran my newer Legacy T1 with Legacy control, and then I connected Bluetooth.  I was able to control the engine with both systems at the same time...  That surprised me.

You may want to simply check to see that the TMCC/Legacy antenna (handrails) isn't inadvertently grounded to the boiler before exercising the warranty.

Thanks for the tip.  I should have checked that.  Anyway, after checking, they are not grounded to boiler.  I do have continuity between the two handrails.

Firstly Bluetooth and LEGACY are not exclusive to one or the other basically either the legacy radio board dumps serial data into the main motor driver or the Bluetooth receiver does. You can even happen at the same time and contradict each other that’s why where’s a Bluetooth on off switch.

Obviously this is a locomotive issue, if you don’t see where the handrails are obviously grounded then check continuity between a handrail and the outside rail or a driver. Also try holding your hand over the locomotive during power up/ operation

Thanks Zachariah.

I held my hand over the engine.  Still starts up in conventional only.

I did confirm no continuity (grounding) between the handrails and the outside rails when placed on the track.

I was hoping to find information regarding what components/boards see the legacy signal.  I think these new boards have the radio board directly attached to the main control board now.  In earlier production (couple of year(s) ago), the radio board was "plugged" into the top of the RCMC board.

I think I am resigned to return the engine to Lionel.  That said, I'll call Trainworld first thing in the morning to see what they say.

That sounds like your best course of action. It’s possible a wire is loose or shorted to something else that’s killing its ability to get signal.

you are correct the new LCP3 (I think) has the radio board directly soldered to it.