I answered my question and solved the problem.  Yes, I burnt out the decoder.  Yes, replacing the decoder with the dummy plugs allows it to run in DC.  Are DCC On Board engines generally this sensitive to a short in a DC system?   

I just received a brand new, DCC On Board three-truck Climax today.  I run DC mode only and have no plans to run DCC.  The engine ran well for a few feet around a test loop of snap track.  The terminals on the snap track accidentally shorted out, and the engine stopped.  After I corrected the short, the engine did not function any more.  The lights did not light, and it did not move.  The tender was warm.  A DC engine ran fine on the track, so I know the power pack was providing power.  When I let the Climax cool about 10 minutes, and put it back on the track, it still did not move or light.  I heard very faint electrical crackling sounds from both the snap track connector and the tender, and the tender began to warm again.  Might it reset eventually?  Did I damage the circuitry irreversibly?  Will it run in DC mode if the dummy plugs are installed in place of the decoder?  If so, how do I reach the decoder socket?  Or should I sent it back to Bachmann?  Any help would be appreciated.