Hi Bill ... Thank you very much for the reply!

Yes, I'm aware that whole trucks may still be purchased, but I don't seem to be needing to replace the whole $176.50 truck just because a screw ear is broken on a $5.50 top cover as seen here:

http://estore.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=66_69_629&products_id=7225

I note that there are many other parts still offered, and have availed myself of some of them, like the delicate Hose Hanger set, and a couple of spare Headlights, but also note that the Cab Steps are listed as "Sold Out", and they are a delicate and easily damaged detail part that should continue to sell well ... or so I think! It appears that they are the same for both the 36/38 ton and 55 ton Shays as many parts are interchangeable.

http://estore.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=66_69_143&products_id=4768

Well, it is what it is, and I'll figure some kind of a work around for the parts most critically required!!!

Certainly that is a bit discouraging as I'm needing some parts for the 36/38 ton two truck Shays. I have just converted one to R/C & Battery power, but noted a broken screw ear on one of truck covers (motor blocks) and also broke a set of cab steps in the process. I have a dozen various Bachmann large scale engines that I have been saving until an outdoor layout could be built, which I am now finally getting around to actualizing. Sad to think my purchases over the years in anticipation of this, have been a mistake.

So what about the lifetime warranty anyway? Do they have parts that they are saving to deal with those issues? I am given to understand that the early Shay motor blocks are defective due to bad plastic which is certainly the cause of the screw ear on my cover crumbling. Seems with manufacturing problems such as this cropping up, a robust after sales market for parts could be somewhat profitable, and would certainly be morally correct under the circumstances!!!