Pacing Union Pacific’s #3985 Locomotive
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While making a run near Alexandria, Nebraska, engineer Ed Dickens and crew are clearly visible up in the cab of this magnificent beast!
Built specifically to take on long, steep grades , the #3985 Challenger was designed to pull freight without the benefit of helper engines.
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Both UP #4014 “Big Boy” 4-8-8-4, and UP’s #3985 Challenger 4-6-6-4 are based at Union Pacific’s steam shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Some quick facts about the UP #3985 Challenger
- Builder – American Locomotive Works – 1943
- Wheel configuration – 4-6-6-4
- Locomotive and tender weight – 1,073,900 lbs
- Tractive effort – 97,350 lbf
- Nicknamed – Challenger
Let us know if you have ever seen #3985 in action. We would love to hear about your expereince!
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