Thanks Veetwelve. Those are to block off filling the area where the track clips go 

I don't know how many out there will be interested, but the track flex created some issues for me, and what I have read others, especially those first timers like me, who were having issues on carpet. Mine was vinyl flooring. I backfilled the hollow ties which created a more ridged section of track. It also doubled the weight. Worthwhile? Maybe, but it is fun to do and gives a great appearance from the underside 

https://screenpal.com/watch/cZVlqFVJfvZ

https://screenpal.com/watch/cZVlqFVJfv0

https://screenpal.com/watch/cZVlqFVJfv3

I thought you may like to see my first Bachmann train setup before taking down for Christmas. I intend to set up a layout in my office and build from there. I rigged some temporary light to illuminate the Engineers. I purchased a light to illuminate the Hobo on the back of the caboose, but the soft white bulb burned out and I had to scramble to use whatever I had laying around, that is why it is so bright. Hope you enjoy.

https://screenpal.com/watch/c0luqLVHuHs

Absolutely, have had no issues with any of the other couplers. This is my first train since I was a boy and I am having a blast!

I have been having an issue with the coupler between the coal tender and a livestock car randomly coming open. I determined the coal tender coupler was more ridged than the livestock car and I believe the amount of slop was creating the problem. Here is my solution. Cheesy, I know, but it worked! Small hair rubber band keeps the livestock coupler from floating.
 https://photos.app.goo.gl/RDaYYhzyYoNTMZXK6           

Hi Loco Bill! All right, I am trying to post links. Please let me know if it works. Thanks!

Sound Box

I know I am not reinventing the wheel here, but I found a sound record/play box and installed in the caboose. I ran the switch out the back window. Found some .wav files online steam train whistle, bell, cow moos and horse whinny's. I have the Bachmann Cow Catcher Train with animated cow car, and I added an animated horse car. Mixed them all together and recorded them. Along with the built in chugging, sounds pretty good! I tried to upload pictures, but it said the box was full.

Thanks Loco Bill! Very informative!

Smokestack in the front or smokestack in the back? Thanks!

Hi Loco Bill Canelos! Yes, I cautiously sped it up to 80% and I did smell the coil heating up and saw just a trace of smoke, with the recommended 4 to 6 drops of fluid. Not real impressive. The problem going over 50% is the cows in the Cow Freight Car get jammed in the window and don't bob in and out. That is more important to me than the smoke. I may hook up a direct rechargeable battery pack to the smoke unit or replace with an aftermarket unit that requires less voltage. Thanks for the welcome! I hope to contribute as I dive deeper into model railroading. Having fun so far!

Thanks! Only one set of wires. I am sure I can add a light 

Ha, ha! Yes I did!

Hi. Just purchased Bachmann Cow Catcher starter set. Brand new, right out of the box. Love it, runs smooth, Sound is crisp and clear. Smoker does not produce any smoke. My research indicated that one possible cause may be that the controller must be run at least 80% to provide the proper voltage. Because of the small around the base of my Christmas tree layout, I have been running at 50% because I am leery about derailing and damaging the train. Are my findings valid? If so, what are my options and solutions if any. Also, is the light on the coal tender on this model supposed to work in reverse? Thanks! (Model #90040)