My Bachmann Ez-command has NEVER given me any problems.  I have 34 engines (DC and DCC) that I keep on spur tracks, (track powered off) when not in use.  I do not have a need for changing CV's.  I have used this system for 5 years now.  My layout originally was cab control, which made the switch to DCC simple.  I do have issues when I run more than 4 sound equipped units, but I know this is a power issue.  I have been part of a train club, and it always seemed that they had constant issues with the bigger systems.  I am not saying that the bigger systems are bad, just that it really is NOT needed to run trains efficiently.  I will one day buy the booster Bachmann offers, so I can triple head some of my sound equipped steamers.
I also have visitors over, and they can just run trains, after a few seconds.  It was a bigger learning curve for me to use the Zephyr system, at the club.

My layout is a 14' x   22' "L" shaped, double wishbone, with a harbor scene.

Jonathan,
I drilled a hole up through the tender into the brass light housing.  Then I used a clear sproon, (from a Athearn window kit) to transfer the light from inside the tender to the lens area.  I used heat sink tubing to attach a 3mm LED bulb to the bottom, added a resistor, and it worked well.  I have noticed that my Bachmann 0-6-0-t Saddle tank has this arrangement for the tender light.
(P.S.  That is where I  got the idea!)

hotrainlover

This IS the hardest loco to put a decoder in!......    I would not remove it, unless there is no other choice.

I am currently putting a Tsunami sound one in.  It will fit,  if I get over my "Fits"!!

Is it possible one of the buttons are stuck.....   Causing it to rotate through the menu?  Make sure that there is not a short on your programming track, (or Main) if you were programming a loco, when it started.

I used the plain black one for "another" road.  Just repainted the sides black, and then re-decalled it. Then, I clear dull coated the water tender.  I figured that the water tender would NOT look as "freshly shopped" as the engines.  A lot of "rust" was added to the top and sides.  Using DCC, I also made the water tender rear light "non - functioning" as I have NOT seen any in the local yard have a back up light.

Thanks for the link, Rich.

It would also be acquired by me.  It has the "Bellpaire"  box that the GN used on most of their engines.  I would buy one,  if it was a Spectrum model!

I used Velcro to attach my Micro-tsunami to the shell during my install.  I have not had any over heating issues.  This also allowed me to reposition the decoder for a proper fit. 

I put this decoder in my Shay.  It sounds like the one I rode while in California.  I can not tell a difference...   Of course I could be bias...  I Love my Shay, with the Tsunami!  I have NOT heard one of the pre-installed units, though...

Jonathan,
Yes, I plan on taking pictures of this install.  it will be during the winter, tho.....

I am saving up for a Sound decoder to put into my Bachmann Saddle tank...  Does that count?

With all the experience here on the board....

I finally am to the stage of pouring my "Water" for the harbor scene.  I have approximately a 6 foot section that need s to be covered with water.....
I have bridges and piers,that I will need to pour around.  Do any of these products make it Impossible to re-use the bridges (if I want to "save" then for a future redo)?

What has everyone used for a Large area for water?  I (think) have 3 choices: Realistic Water, Ez water, and Magic Water....

What are the pros and cons, from others that have used these products?  (I ask here, since Bachmann DOES NOT offer and water in their scenery choices.)

Chester1083,
look here for a un-powered unit available online.

http://www.bowserorders.com/.sc/ms/dd/ee/5030603

I used a vertical steam boiler carload from LL to make a still.  It is easy....  Just add a "stretched" pen spring from the boiler to a small milk can....

PN,
What type of Shay did the GN Have?

This is the info I just found:
3100     Great Northern Lumber Co., #1, Leavenworth, WA
3004    Great Northern Lumber Co., Leavenworth, WA