The whistle is really pretty loud and realistic sounding for sure. I live near tracks and while we don't have locomotives, the volume of the engines is pretty loud, so this is an important feature. Neat engine for sure.
Thanks man!. The dual signal head is BLMA and I've got it hooked up to be controlled by two switches. One for the top signal and one for the bottom. The passenger station is Atlas and can be purchased as a kit or built up. The station comes with one platform and you can buy additional platforms in packs of two.
James, this was an excellent review. We have missed you, but you have been busy. Please tell us more about the dual signal head, and a close up on that damn fine looking station. Peace be with you and thanks.
You know you could add a Diesel locomotive to the consist like the DDA40X or a UP Heritage SD70ACe like most UP excursions do. Love the review nice and detailed model.
Its hard to say. I like Tsunami for overall sound but I like the strength of QSI's whistles (on steam) and horns (on diesels). However, I will say Tsunami stepped up on the bass and overall quality of this challenger's whistle. So overall I am leaning Tsunami right now.
Keep in mind the unit is being operated without benefiting from CV tuning, especially the sound. There is usually a lot of white noise (from the speaker trying to produce lower frequency sounds outside of its capabilities) which can be tuned out through the Tsunami equalizer. And Athearn typically puts in the most cost effective speaker, not the best sounding. But the good news is the the after market has plenty of upgrades.
Good review - Thanks for sharing. I didn't realize that any of the new run were out yet. Nice sounds, although it doesn't seem to have the "off beats" of an articulated loco. Maybe that's just the way I'm hearing it through my computer. I have a #3710 on reserve at Randy's in Lincoln and am really looking forward to seeing and hearing it.
Another well done, very informative review. You are "on track" to become the Nut'in Fancy of Model Railroading. I had a BLI N&W Y6 but later sold it. Although I model NS and CSX (NS HQ is 10 miles from the house) modern, still want to do a steamer. Have railfanned the Clinchfield, have a few of their coal cars and am thinking of pulling the trigger on a Clinchfield Challenger. The review of the UP variant has dipped the scales toward an Athern/Genesis. BTW, the SD-70Ace's are wonderful
Great review as always. Glad to see you back on the Tube. Hope all is well with the new baby. Will you do a video showing the 2 OMI UP GEVOs you picked up?
Does it have whistle and bell options? The N version with Tsunami has 3985's whistle. But otherwise the newer HO release is much better then the older.
Here is my opinion about the engine. It is a beautiful model, but the chuff to me sounds a little weird. I'm not putting athearn or Tsunami sound down because I love there products and sound but the chuff to me sounds like a really fast " Clink " I guess you could say. But anyway its is a great model and great review.
hi Jiwii2000, Athearn has been around for a very long time, my first engine where Athearn and they have one of the best motors going around, I got as Xmas gift a Santa Fe steam engine from Athearn a very beautiful set to bad I sold it and regret it dearly, whatever you decide it's your choice, I just started back in the hobby with Athearn blue box,Bachmann Harvest Express I got with EDM GP 40 CN, I live in Canada so CN CP VIA rail is my most favorite engines did have the Wabash double engine blue box Athearn. I watch all your reviews, can say on the Challenger would love to have it and the other BigBoys that have been produced in the USA for my personal collection. Keep up your reviews I get a lot of great info when it comes to where I need to buy engines mainly none DDC ready will be cheaper for me to buy decoder harness and chip, also got back a Chessie System engine blue box will upgrade it with harness and chip for DCC.
The jewled nonfuctioning marker lamps on the rear of the tender is another place Athearn could make a big improvment by using fiber optics to actually light those laturns . I liked your over all review . Did you notice how closely the tender and the engine coupled ? Almost as close as the protype , but closer than other plastic offerings of the same model . A great addition to your collection James .
Loved the video man I got the Athearn Big Boy with Smoke Deflectors but the big boy has two road numbers the cab number is 4019 but the road signs near the bell is 4021 it was a factory error but that's ok its not often you see two road numbers on a ho scale locomotive but anyway loved the video man
Great review! I always wanted to get one of the Lionel Vision Line Challengers. They're so expensive though! These Athearn ones are a nice HO scale Challenger though.
Mine did that once, my dad called Athearn and they fixed it for free, but some of that may be that I was like 7 at the time :P I'm sure they would at least fix it for a fee though, their customer service has been fantastic when we have dealt with them
just a thought..."Sir, I respect what you guys do and I'm behind you 100%, But I do not consent to searches or engage in any dialogue until my lawyer would say it's necessary." Then carry that Innocent smoke syringe anywhere this free country allows without fear of the Gestapo.
The first run with MRC is actually prototypical. If ever stood next to the 3985 or heard on run by, the MRC sounds pretty spot on. But the reproduction quality is bad. The Tsunami chuff sound is the usual run of the mill as always. That darn generic chuff that sounds not good for large engines.
Do you hope that 3985 comes back? P.S. Amazing review on the Athearn HO Scale Challenger. I just pre ordered one. Thanks to your review. Thank you vary much.
Great job as always with your videos! Please check outthe new tcs wow decoders the ones with keep alive and without.I'm sure you'll be quite impressed. Thanks again. D&rg dan
Can't recommend the Challenger. The loco picks up electricity from its drivers with very fine and delicate phosphor bronze wipers rather than using a more contemporary and rugged split frame. The contacts used by Athearn can literally melt in a derailment-caused short circuit, requiring extensive repairs. The split frame, as used by Broadway Limited and Blackstone models, is very nearly bullet-proof. I'd advise potential purchasers to avoid these locos. They're not built for long-term service.
The whistle is really pretty loud and realistic sounding for sure. I live near tracks and while we don't have locomotives, the volume of the engines is pretty loud, so this is an important feature. Neat engine for sure.
Thanks man!. The dual signal head is BLMA and I've got it hooked up to be controlled by two switches. One for the top signal and one for the bottom. The passenger station is Atlas and can be purchased as a kit or built up. The station comes with one platform and you can buy additional platforms in packs of two.
James, this was an excellent review. We have missed you, but you have been busy. Please tell us more about the dual signal head, and a close up on that damn fine looking station. Peace be with you and thanks.
You know you could add a Diesel locomotive to the consist like the DDA40X or a UP Heritage SD70ACe like most UP excursions do. Love the review nice and detailed model.
Nicely done video James. The detail on the Challenger is fantastic!
Its hard to say. I like Tsunami for overall sound but I like the strength of QSI's whistles (on steam) and horns (on diesels). However, I will say Tsunami stepped up on the bass and overall quality of this challenger's whistle. So overall I am leaning Tsunami right now.
Keep in mind the unit is being operated without benefiting from CV tuning, especially the sound. There is usually a lot of white noise (from the speaker trying to produce lower frequency sounds outside of its capabilities) which can be tuned out through the Tsunami equalizer. And Athearn typically puts in the most cost effective speaker, not the best sounding. But the good news is the the after market has plenty of upgrades.
Another great product review James. Appreciate reviews from a modeler's prospective. Thanks.
Excellent review per usual. Do you prefer Tsunami sound decoders over most other brands by any chance?
Good review - Thanks for sharing. I didn't realize that any of the new run were out yet. Nice sounds, although it doesn't seem to have the "off beats" of an articulated loco. Maybe that's just the way I'm hearing it through my computer. I have a #3710 on reserve at Randy's in Lincoln and am really looking forward to seeing and hearing it.
I personally think Athearn is the best model manufacturer... Great video James!!!
Another well done, very informative review. You are "on track" to become the Nut'in Fancy of Model Railroading. I had a BLI N&W Y6 but later sold it. Although I model NS and CSX (NS HQ is 10 miles from the house) modern, still want to do a steamer. Have railfanned the Clinchfield, have a few of their coal cars and am thinking of pulling the trigger on a Clinchfield Challenger. The review of the UP variant has dipped the scales toward an Athern/Genesis. BTW, the SD-70Ace's are wonderful
How did you model your roads? Did you by them pre-made?
why is there smoke only coming out of the front stack? other wise awesome engine and vid!!!!! thanks!
Will you be getting the second release of Union Pacific #844 or Big Boy #4014 later this year?
What kind of scale are u using 1.87?? nice videos u have.
Great review as always. Glad to see you back on the Tube. Hope all is well with the new baby. Will you do a video showing the 2 OMI UP GEVOs you picked up?
too add to the pulling power you should add the DDA40X to the consist, just like in your recent railfanning videos
you stated that the locomotive was heavy. Is it constructed of die-cast metal like my "O" scale steam locomotives??
Are you gonna do an Athearn Gen. 4-8-8-4 Big Boy Review?
Nice video. What is the revised issue dates on your box and manual? My dates are rev 6/27/12 on the box and 10/12 on the manual. Thanks.
Where did you get the smoker? Name of manufacture?
Does it have whistle and bell options? The N version with Tsunami has 3985's whistle. But otherwise the newer HO release is much better then the older.
where did you get your U.P. Auxiliary Water Tender?
Where did you get your smokers?
Here is my opinion about the engine. It is a beautiful model, but the chuff to me sounds a little weird. I'm not putting athearn or Tsunami sound down because I love there products and sound but the chuff to me sounds like a really fast " Clink " I guess you could say. But anyway its is a great model and great review.
Is the headlight blue??
hi Jiwii2000, Athearn has been around for a very long time, my first engine where Athearn and they have one of the best motors going around, I got as Xmas gift a Santa Fe steam engine from Athearn a very beautiful set to bad I sold it and regret it dearly, whatever you decide it's your choice, I just started back in the hobby with Athearn blue box,Bachmann Harvest Express I got with EDM GP 40 CN, I live in Canada so CN CP VIA rail is my most favorite engines did have the Wabash double engine blue box Athearn. I watch all your reviews, can say on the Challenger would love to have it and the other BigBoys that have been produced in the USA for my personal collection. Keep up your reviews I get a lot of great info when it comes to where I need to buy engines mainly none DDC ready will be cheaper for me to buy decoder harness and chip, also got back a Chessie System engine blue box will upgrade it with harness and chip for DCC.
Nice review! I know this might sound a bit dumb, but at 15:02, is that your controller? If it is, what brand and what type is it?
thanks!
another great quality vid good job keep them coming
That buzzing you hear in the video is the smoke unit.
Hello great video as always
But why did Athearn put ash pan valves on the Challenger and the big boys when they have been converted to oil?
how do you get the smoke unit out
which one sounds better?
The jewled nonfuctioning marker lamps on the rear of the tender is another place Athearn could make a big improvment by using fiber optics to actually light those laturns . I liked your over all review . Did you notice how closely the tender and the engine coupled ? Almost as close as the protype , but closer than other plastic offerings of the same model . A great addition to your collection James .
Steam! Another informative (and enticing!) review. Thank you.
Hi does this have screeching brakes ???? also can you change to the metal couplers ?
how much challenger engine like this run in price for this , nd this is my number one favorite engine my second is the flying scotsman ?
Loved the video man I got the Athearn Big Boy with Smoke Deflectors but the big boy has two road numbers the cab number is 4019 but the road signs near the bell is 4021 it was a factory error but that's ok its not often you see two road numbers on a ho scale locomotive but anyway loved the video man
Great review! I always wanted to get one of the Lionel Vision Line Challengers. They're so expensive though! These Athearn ones are a nice HO scale Challenger though.
Hey, where did you get those awesome coaches?!
about how long do you think until this item gets discontinued again?
Can the smoke units be turned on/off using an F key?
How do you remove seuthe smoke units
how can i buy this?
Nice review, thanks. Do those wind turbines and solar PV panels generate enough electricity to run your layout?
Gonna try and get mine in n scale for up to $500. Now that better be good quality
I was wondering if you ever wanted to sell the challenger or any steam locomotive you don't want. Would you be interested in selling them to me?
MTH is definatly superior with the challenger, now they have them with the proper oil tender, not sure if they have 3985 with the oil tender though.
Where can I buy a smoke genorator?
www.dccconcepts.com/catalogue/c/smoke-units-and-smoke-oils
Thanks, I purchased the challenger.
tough call. Athearn is more accurate for the real 3985, but I love the puffing smoke of the MTH.
Look at the 10 - 11 minute mark and you'll hear the explanation for the front stack only.
how does your smoke unit smoke like that i have one installed in my big boy and it only does the streams of smoke not plumes
Great video as always. Although if you had put the steam on at the end would have been even better
Do you know a good place I could send my challenger to be fixed, it took a hard fall?
Mine did that once, my dad called Athearn and they fixed it for free, but some of that may be that I was like 7 at the time :P I'm sure they would at least fix it for a fee though, their customer service has been fantastic when we have dealt with them
looks good James!! hope you're doing good my friend :)
Thanks for all the amazing videos, does it have a tsunami 2?
ive never been big on steam but i think i might just buy this if i ever have the chance
"IKEA - Come check out our stool samples" HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAA!!!!! Priceless.
My challenger has problem pulling six car UP Brass cars.
I wish athearn would make a Strasburg Railroad NO.90 Great Western #90
front truck wasnt turning the wheels looked jammed or a hair high on the drivers.
The G97227 is the product number.
I love athearn and all but I think for that price I'd rather spend a little extra for the MTH challenger
just a thought..."Sir, I respect what you guys do and I'm behind you 100%, But I do not consent to searches or engage in any dialogue until my lawyer would say it's necessary." Then carry that Innocent smoke syringe anywhere this free country allows without fear of the Gestapo.
great loco. i have the Lionel diecast one with DCC sound. it a very good loco
yes on the 844, maybe on the 4014...
Thanks for the review... Well done. !
The actual 3985 converted to burn oil in 1990.
Please Review new MTH Challenger. Thanks :)))
Sweet that's a must have
The first run with MRC is actually prototypical. If ever stood next to the 3985 or heard on run by, the MRC sounds pretty spot on. But the reproduction quality is bad. The Tsunami chuff sound is the usual run of the mill as always. That darn generic chuff that sounds not good for large engines.
Do you hope that 3985 comes back?
P.S. Amazing review on the Athearn HO Scale Challenger. I just pre ordered one. Thanks to your review. Thank you vary much.
I have the 3985
me too
That smoke unit is killing my OCD!
Because it is hard to implement it anywhere else on an HO scale engine
as soon as I get them back from Ligar but he's backed up right now.
Atlas code 83 and some walthers code 83
right on! I guess I missed that part!!!
on the roof? yes.
If I were to own a challenger to add the smoke fluid with a eye dropper
i know what i'm saving up for since my Big boy is paid off!
Dear Santa
right on!
I want one.
Its a great whistle sound effect but too choppy!
That's not a G97227, that's a UP3985...
Awesome!
no since I have already reviewed Athearn SD70ACe's twice. No need to do another review just because of a different paint scheme.
Great job as always with your videos! Please check outthe new tcs wow decoders the ones with keep alive and without.I'm sure you'll be quite impressed. Thanks again. D&rg dan
no its white.
Im sure it was turned to oil in 1981
Can't recommend the Challenger. The loco picks up electricity from its drivers with very fine and delicate phosphor bronze wipers rather than using a more contemporary and rugged split frame. The contacts used by Athearn can literally melt in a derailment-caused short circuit, requiring extensive repairs. The split frame, as used by Broadway Limited and Blackstone models, is very nearly bullet-proof. I'd advise potential purchasers to avoid these locos. They're not built for long-term service.
mth has the better sound
nope
wow....don't care for the LED bulb
Whistle sounds NOTHING like 3985 -_-