This potentially handy unit was announced in 05 but I haven't seen anything more about it. A couple of enquiries on here a year or two ago met with the "still under research and development" response. For those of us who run the E-Z Command controller and are extremely satisfied with it - this item (44909 Bachmann turnout-accessory controller) is a perfect expansion for a few extra turnouts and a few accessories. I have no need for the extra capabilities and cost of the Dynamis.  I only want a little more capability for the superb E-Z Command system.

So Mr. Bach-man is the 44909 dead or will it ever show up as an item?

Anyone know the difference in length between an HO Bachmann DCC #5 turnout and a #4 turnout? I need to know the overall length down the straight side not including the plastic tabs. Any help appreciated.

I would like someone at Bachmann to do a comprehensive review of the often incomplete instructions that come with otherwise very good product.

Examples: The DCC controller comes with a DVD that tells you how to program locos but is virtually devoid of info on programming DCC switches. There is very little clarification of the Function button and it's uses compared to the rest of the unit.

DCC switches tell you how to program them into the unit but you get no info on how to go from there. The DCC switch instructions make no mention of the wire underneath that you can plug in and power the frog.

Nowhere will you find the simple piece of information that to bring a number 5 turnout back into parallel all you need is a 33 1/4" 12 degree curve.

I realize that these things may be obvious to many but when you are starting out it's very frustrating and it could be completely avoided by a co ordinated review of the various instructions for the various products so that some continuity of information is established.

One good technician with good communication skills could re do these in a couple of days.

Dear Mr. Bachmann,

The current Bachmann N scale, 11.25" radius turnout is fine but not if you want to combine it with the N scale Crossovers. The crossovers require a different radius turnout if you intend to match turnouts and crossovers in say a yard or siding type setting.

In fact it says on the package that "... you may consider purchasing larger EZ Track turnouts to allow for smoother tansitions during switching operations....."

I'd really love to do that but exhaustive search reveals no such turnouts. Do they exist or are they soon to arrive? I prefer Bachmann product and would like to be able to get these turnouts.

What can you tell me?

Can the new small Bachmann decoder BAC 44925 be used in the Bachmann H16-44? Also does this decoder have BEMF or not? I run a lot of consists and I hear BEMF is not consist friendly.

Are there any plans in the future to correct the blue color on this particular unit? The yellow color is fine but the blue is nearly turquoise as opposed to a much darker blue on the real Santa Fe freight FT-A's. A simple internet check will reveal the color discrepancy.

It's a shame because it's an excellent addition to the FT-A selections Bachmann has to offer.