TMCC problem

First off, which specific Challenger do you have?

You appear to have several issues.  The fact that it won't move would be an internal locomotive issue, the IR tender does nothing but generate sounds.  I'd probably work on the motion issue first.  Did this locomotive ever run since you've had it?

Start by reprogramming the R2LC, here's the procedure for the scale or LionMaster TMCC Challenger.

Reprogramming your locomotive to restore features

If your locomotive is unresponsive to your commands in the TrainMaster Command Control environment, we recommend that you follow this procedure to reset your locomotive. All factory default settings will be restored when you reprogram the locomotive.

1. Slide the Command reverse unit switch to the PROG position.
2. Plug in and connect your Command Base.
3. Place your locomotive on the track, then power up the track.
4. Press ENG and enter the locomotive’s ID#.
5. Press SET.
6. Press ENG and enter the locomotive’s ID# again.
7. Press AUX1.
8. Enter 74 for this particular locomotive.
8. Turn off track power and wait ten seconds.
10. Slide the Command reverse unit switch back to the RUN position.

At this point, your locomotive has been reset. Restore power to the track and operate the locomotive as usual. Be sure to use the ID# entered in Step 4.

I don't have the box for this particular loco.  It appears to be 6-1121.  I'm not sure how to tell if it is legacy equipped, but that's what the description says from Lionel.  I tried the reset you suggested and nothing happened.  

By solder the IR wires together do you mean at the engine or between engine and tender?

I would unplug the soldered wire (IR tether) and test engine for operation.  The Wires being soldered could be killing the power supply on the R2LC.

The tender needs to see the serial data from the engine (which it isn't) to work in  command.    Does the tender have the IR receiver wire?   Or was that cut off too?  G 

6-1121 is not a valid Lionel number.

Sorry, it is Lionel 6-11211.

That is Vision Line Legacy with RCDR.  You need to do what I stated above about clearing the tether solder issue.  Or show some pictures of the modified tether.  G

That's a horse of a totally different color, it's the Legacy Vision Line model.

Does that need sent into Lionel then?