Bachmann has not done any R/C models since the one you have. Bachmann is releasing large scale locomotives four ways:
•   Standard (i.e. not DCC ready)
•   DCC ready
•   decoder equipped
•   decoder equipped with sound.

DCC On Board is Bachmann’s phrase for decoder equipped.

R/C control system using battery on board is an after market add-on. Several systems are available (not from Bachmann). Some of the best are made by Remote Control Systems.

DCC uses track to deliver power/DCC signal except  CVP produces a battery on board system called AirWire 900 using DCC technology and using their T9000 wireless throttle.

The locomotives in the Digital Commander set are decoder equipped.

To start, I encourage you to click on the E-Z Command link above and read all the information available.

Also, watch the E-Z Command instructions on the DVD included with the set.

As you already know, this train set is not for a 4-year-old to play with without fulltime supervision.

You have the first version of the Bachmann Big Haulers product line. The R/C version you have has been out of production for many years and no replacement parts are available except by cannibalism. 

The time and money you will need to spend to get the locomotive into shape will be far more than the cost of a new version. I suggest you sell what you have and look to getting at least a current version locomotive from the Bachmann Big Haulers product line. Take a good look at the large-scale Spectrum line before you decide.

Gene,
Most of the folks I know who have built new layouts or modified wiring of a layout in the last five years have used the suitcase connector. All have been in model railroading for decades and have excellent soldering skills. None have had a problem due to the connectors to date.  All the layouts are in air conditioned rooms.

This type of connector makes needed wiring changes very easy and convenient when working in small space.

Thanks for sharing your Now I Know experience.

Solder is best… if your soldering skills are up to doing it right.

If your soldering skills are questionable, then use the proper size "suitcase clip." (a.k.a. suitcase connector.) If you are trying to buy and the person helping does not recognize what you want then ask for Self-Stripping Electrical Tap Connector. Tap connectors come in different sizes depending on the wire gauge being connected. Be sure to get correct size.

When using tap connectors, if you can, use them with solid wire not stranded.

The AWG of the bus and the feeders is as important as the type of connection. Be sure to match the feeder’s AWG to its length.

I encourage all NOT to use a PWM DC power supply with any duel mode decoder.

It does depend on the decoder; but more likely than not, PWM DC power will confuse any decoder. Some brands get confused less frequently than maybe some others.

An aside:
Sound duel mode decoders don’t get along very well at all with PWM DC power or open frame motors. If you install a  sound decoder…  use DCC power and a can type motor.

Stephen,
When using a Digitrax Zephyr command station, you can attach a 1000-Ohm resistor across the programming track rails if you wish; but, just lay it across is all that is needed. Makes it easier to remove the resistor once you finish programming the Bachmann decoder.

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Do not use a 1000-Ohm resister across the programming track if you are using a Bachmann Command Control Center.

To create a programming track for use with a Bachmann Command Control Center, connect a 100-Ohm 10W resistor in series with one track power wire. Remember you must use isolated (best to use separate sections) track for a programming track.

Workaround required.

To program the Bachmann decoder using a Digitrax Zephyr, place a 1000 Ohm resistor across the programming track. Remove the resistor after you do all the programming.

If you have the DCC Ready version
Run the locomotive per the break-in instructions and clear up any issues that may arise.

Now install the decoder
•   remove the shell
•   remove the jumper plug (or the two wire 3-pin jumpers) from the 8-pin socket
•   insert the 8-pin plug on the decoder’s wiring harness in the socket matching the #1 pin to the #1 socket hole.
•   Test run â€" if all OK then place the shell back on.

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Much more work if you have one of the older non-DCC Ready version.

E-Z Command is compatible with a DCC booster built to conform to NMRA RP-9.1.2  Opto-isolated (Current) Interface.    Digital plus by Lenz Power Station (what Lenz calls their DCC booster) is built to this specification.

I recommend you review the information about Lenz Power Stations and the new product releases  http://www.lenz.com/products/powerstations/index.htm

Like Jim, I suggest you select one of the Lenz  Power Stations to add power to your Lenz command station.

This is one of those… it depends.

Only rule of thumb is the longer the car over 40 to 50 scale feet; the larger the curve radius. A guide - If you can see the outside rail looking down on the car when in a curve, it likely needs to be run on a larger curve radius.

As already covered, two key things affecting derailments is the range of movement of the couplers and wheelsets.  Coupler placement and design will allow for some long rolling stock  to run on 18" curves.

Here are links to some general info
http://www.trains.com/mrr/default.aspx?c=a&id=911
http://www.trains.com/mrr/default.aspx?c=a&id=607

You can use them with N scale.

Look into using J-B Weld or Faststeel Epoxy Putty .
Use  Faststeel Epoxy Putty if you have a gap to fill.
Both are metal epoxy.