I can't speak for NCE because I use DIgitrax. But i've had a similar experience with programming Bachmann decoders, and for me the workaround is to put a 1000 ohm resistor across the rails of the programming track. I've soldered the ends of the resistor to alligator clips to make it easy to hook up as not all decoders require its use. Try it on your system and see if it helps.

What's the best number or what's the maximum number of industries that should be or could be to put on a 4 x 8-foot layout.

This pertains to HO scale modelers.  The reason I ask this is....   I think I've overwhelmed my layout by trying to place too many industries on my new section of 4 x 8 or I may have too much track on that same 4 x 8.  I thought this section would be my industrial park, but again I don't seem to have enough space for both the track and industries that the track should be able to support.   I'd show images of my layout but, after looking through Sheldon's layout, I'm too embarrassed to show my behemoth, and it's nowhere near completion.  So I'm scratching my head, (and my kids are of no help) in how to place all of what I envisioned as an industrial park with rail access.

Everyone's thoughts are welcomed, cause at this juncture, I'm hoping I haven't overspent on buildings, scenery and well, one never has enough track, cause I'm always modifying the track.

I have a NCE Power Cab. I ordered 2 Bachman DCC on board trains, one with sound. I cannot program them with my own address. I have to use the default code for both of them. Is there an issue with Bachman trains and NCE Power Cab?

Basic question: did you call Bachmann parts department?

At least we know why Bachmann just chooses to do CGI engines because kids who watch the show are more familiar with them.

Just on the off chance. I need this part is it available anywhere, in someone's parts box, a clever person who 3d prints them etc.
I can't upload a picture so I will have to describe it:
It's the female part of the universal joint between the steam engine and rear truck part number OYAO1

I have ordered a pair of replacement trucks. Does anyone have any info or advice for fitting them, their voltage etc.

With the new Thomas series on the horizon, I wonder if Bachmann would make anything from it. There is bound to be new characters, and it would be interesting to see Bachmann handle them. Would they be 1-to-1 with their models, or maybe be redesigned slightly to fit the more "classic" look that Bachmann aims for? I do doubt Bachmann would update their models to align with the new series, since that would be a lot of effort, and Mattel still does seem to be using the classic CGI Thomas (Such as in Wonders of Sodor).

Just some thoughts I had, interested to see anyone else's perspective on this.

I think it's old. I have watched the videos and my trucks are different. The two screws between the wheels are as per the video. I have 6 screws in the bottom of the trucks but they are all the same length (short). There are none of the long screws that hold the top plate on. The top plate with the screws between the wheels removed is held in exactly the positions that the long screws would hold it. There are 2 screws on the top of the trucks
In the right place except they are the size of spectical hinge screws and are not accessible due to the body of the engine above.
Any help would be appreciated.

N Scale Diesel and Paxton were announced in 2023, and only now they finally had samples shown. Once their painted samples get shown in like a few streams, there's a good chance they will be available by the end of this year, along with the express coaches. Also won't be much longer before we see Henry's unpainted N Scale sample.

With the Class 08 tooling complete for N Scale, we're bound to get 'Arry, Bert, Sidney and Mainland Diesel at some point in N Scale, as simple repaints with new faces. Though 'Arry and Bert are discontinued in HO Scale, while Sidney and Mainland Diesel are coming soon to HO Scale. The next diesel for the N Scale range that isn't a Class 08 should either be Mavis or Daisy. Mavis would recycle Thomas' chassis, and would be the first model of her to actually have side rods. Daisy would give the N Scale range a diesel with bogies, and she's an iconic character. If Daisy gets an N Scale model, that would be her second piece of merchandise since her return in CGI.

But, the next N Scale engine should still be Edward, so we can have the original Steam Team complete, while the next tank engine should be Duck, and the third big tender engine for the N Scale range should be Spencer. Both Edward and Duck would 100% be new toolings, while Spencer can recycle Gordon's chassis, and his tender would be a new tooling, along with his streamlined A4 body. Spencer shouldn't be too hard to make in N Scale.

Anything is possible, now that the N Scale backlog is finally starting to clear.