Between 1936 and 1944, the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) constructed a total of 105 Challengers in five classes for the Union Pacific.
These locomotives were approximately 122 ft (37 m) long and weighed 537 short tons (487 tonnes).
While primarily used for freight service across the Union Pacific system, a few were also assigned to passenger trains like the Portland Rose.
The design and operational experience of the Challengers played a crucial role in shaping the renowned Big Boy locomotive type, which, in turn, influenced the design of the last three orders of Challengers.
Broadway Limited Imports' first production run of Challengers features the following notable characteristics:
Accurate front end modeling, including an appropriate aftercooler system for each class.
Accurate modeling of the 25-C-100 and 25-C-400 tenders, tailored to match each class.
An accurately modeled oil tender specific to No. 3985, representing its excursion service.
One model featuring Rio Grande lettering and paint.
One model featuring Clinchfield lettering and paint.
Two unlettered and black painted models—one with wind wings, and one without.
Industry-leading Model Features:
Paragon4 Sound & Control System featuring ROLLING THUNDER
Integral Dual-Mode Decoder with Back EMF for Superb Slow Speed Operation in DC and DCC
Precision Drive Mechanism Engineered for Heavy Towing and Smooth Slow Speed Operation
Operating Smoke Unit with On/Off Switch - Note that N scale smoke units require a thin-viscosity smoke fluid
Six Drivers and All Tender Wheels Pick-up Electricity from Track
Die Cast Locomotive Body with Die Cast Chassis for Heavier Weight and Maximum Tractive Effort
Rubber Tires on Two Drivers for Additional Tractive Effort
Premium Caliber Painting
Prototypically Accurate Paint Schemes and Road Numbers
Many Separately Applied Details such as Handrails, Grab Irons, Piping, Tender Ladders, Whistle, and Bell
Prototypical Headlight and Rear Light Operation
Separately Controllable Cab Light
Prototypically Accurate Sounds for the Union Pacific Challenger
Operating Microtrains-compatible Couplers
Will Operate on Code 55, Code 70, and Code 80 Rail
Minimum Operating Radius: 9.75 inches