Minitrix T16489 - Steam locomotive class 3700

Minitrix T16489 - Steam locomotive class 3700

Model Details

250 Years of US Independence
They long stood in the shadow of the world-famous "Big Boys." We're talking about the no less imposing "Challenger" locomotives of the Union Pacific Railroad (UP). During the steam era, they battled steep gradients and numerous curves on the important transcontinental line through the Rocky Mountains. Helper and pusher locomotives were commonplace, especially on freight trains. In the mid-1930s, the UP sought solutions to streamline this complex and expensive operation. The six-coupled, single-frame locomotives of the 9000 series had reached their design limits. Consequently, the UP developed a powerful "Articulated" locomotive, which, with its two engines, was intended to break new ground in terms of performance. The construction contract was ultimately awarded to the American Locomotive Company (ALCO), which delivered the first examples of the (2'C)C2' h4 giants to the UP in 1936. The six driving axles powered four cylinders, and two leading and two trailing axles per engine made it possible to install a truly super-powerful boiler with a huge firebox. The front engine was movable, resulting in excellent curve negotiation. These enormous steam locomotives, 37 meters long and weighing over 450 tons, proved their worth from the outset. With their 5,000 hp output and a top speed of 110 km/h, they could also be used in heavy passenger service. The name "Challenger" soon emerged for this successful design. This likely meant to express that this then ultramodern locomotive type was ready to take on any challenge. The UP ultimately procured 105 "Challengers," which were delivered in five series between 1936 and 1944 as Class 3900. The locomotives built from 1942 onwards were modified versions with increased power output of nearly 6,000 hp and a larger tender. Six examples were factory-fitted with smoke deflectors, a two-tone paint scheme (light gray/medium gray), and oil firing for use on express trains. In addition, the UP converted numerous coal-fired Challengers to oil firing from 1941 onwards. To distinguish these locomotives from their coal-fired counterparts, some were renumbered 3700-3717. Before the dieselization of their respective operating areas, the Challenger locomotives were crucial pillars of the Union Pacific's train operations. Due to their sheer numbers, they were hardly overshadowed by the legendary "Big Boys." Moreover, the Challengers, because of their shorter length, were more versatile. Anyone wanting to evoke the golden age of American railroads with giant steam locomotives on their model railway will inevitably encounter the "Challenger," especially since numerous other railroad companies also acquired this successful UP model. Furthermore, the surviving "Challenger" 3985 was the largest operational steam locomotive in the world between 1981 and 2010. Prototype: Heavy US freight steam locomotive of the 3700 class Challenger, in the rebuilt version with an oil tender of the Union Pacific Railroad (UP). Locomotive number 3704. Operating condition of the 1950s. Model: With digital decoder and extensive sound functions. Controlled high-efficiency propulsion. 6 axles driven. Traction tires, smoke generator. Directional headlights, number plates, and smoke generator operate conventionally; digitally switchable. Cab lighting is digitally switchable. Lighting with maintenance-free warm white LEDs. Articulated chassis for negotiating curves. Boxpok wheels. Minimum radius R2a (261.8 mm). Length over couplings approx. 23 cm. This model is produced in cooperation with Broadway Limited Imports.

The image is a digital retouch. Operating instructions: The locomotive can be used on curved track with a radius of 261.8 mm or greater, however, we recommend larger radii. Due to the overhang of the long boiler, signals, overhead line masts, bridge railings, tunnel portals, etc., must maintain sufficient clearance from the track curve. The track must be securely fastened to support the locomotive's weight. Turntables and transfer tables can only be used in the through position.


Detailed scale model for adult collectors. Handle with care. Not suitable for children under 14 years. It contains small parts that may pose a choking hazard, and some components have functional sharp points. Only a toy transformer manufactured according to VDE 0570-2-7/DIN EN 61558-2-7 may be used as a power source to operate this product.

 

Characteristics:

Manufacturer:	Minitrix
Item number:	T16489
number of pieces:	1 piece
EAN:	4028106164897
Product Type:	steam locomotives
track:	N
scale:	1:160
Railway company:	UP
country:	US
epoch:	III
Metal model:	partially made of metal
Wheel set replacement:	No
grinder:	No
Electricity system:	DC
operation mode:	DCC Sound
Age recommendation:	Ages 14 and up
WEEE No.:	DE30519521