Union Pacific Challenger #3985 Heading To Houston
UP 3985 getting to Super Bowl XXXVIII in a hurry!
UP 3985 is seen here highballing for Houston, Texas. This clip shows some great pacing action along with massive amounts of smoke!
It makes you wonder if there is something wrong with the air supply to the fire box resulting in poor combustion and excessive amounts of smoke. Perhaps some smoke deflectors (sometimes called elephant ears) would have come in handy on this locomotive.
Built specifically to take on long grades like her cousin “Big Boy”, the #3985 Challenger was designed to pull freight fast up long grades without helper engines.
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 had a chance to see UP #3985 in action! We would love to hear about your experience!
