Vintage UP #3985

Vintage UP #3985 | Train Fanatics Videos

UP 3985 has arguably one the most distinctive steam and smoke displays of any steam engine including Big Boy!

This is one of our favorite clips of this magnificent locomotive showing how powerful the Challenger series 4-6-6-4 locomotives really were.

Built specifically to take on long grades like her cousins the “Big Boys” 4-8-8-4’s, 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!