D3 entered service on 11-12-1903, built at the Newport Workshops it was originally numbered DD586, and then re numbered to DD799 in December 1923, again being renumbered in December 1929 to D2 799.In 1934 after receiving a new boiler the loco was again renumbered to D3 658.
In the mid 1950's , the original D3 639 which hauled the VR commisioners train was withdrawn and loco numbers swapped so D3 658 became the new D3 639.
It was withdrawn in 1973 after boiler failure but received a new boiler and wheels at Ballarat Workshops in the early 1980s , re entering service in December 1984.
On 28-2-13, D3 639 is stabled at the Newport Workshops