49 CFR Part 230 — Steam Locomotive Inspection and Maintenance Standards

PART 230—STEAM LOCOMOTIVE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS Authority: 49 U.S.C. 20103, 20107, 20702; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note; and 49 CFR 1.89. Source: 64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, unless otherwise noted. Subpart A—General § 230.1 Purpose and scope. This part prescribes minimum Federal safety standards for all steam-propelled locomotives operated on railroads to which this part applies. This part does not restrict a railroad from adopting and enforcing additional or more stringent requirements not inconsistent with this part. § 230.2 Applicability. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, this part applies to all railroads that operate steam locomotives. (b) This part does not apply to: (1) A railroad with track gage of less than 24 inches; (2) A railroad that operates exclusively freight trains and does so only on track inside an installation that is not part of the general system of transportation; (3) Rapid transit operations in an urban area that are not connected to the general system of transportation; or (4) A railroad that operates passenger trains and does so only on track inside an installation that is insular, i.e., its operations are limited to a separate enclave in such a way that there is no reasonable expectation that the safety of the public—except a business guest, a licensee of the railroad or an affiliated entity, or a trespasser—would be affected by the operation. An operation will not be considered insular if one or more of the following exists on its line: (i) A public highway-rail crossing that is in use; (ii) An at-grade rail crossing that is in use; (iii) A bridge over a public road or waters used for commercial navigation; or (iv) A common corridor with another railroad, i.e., its operations are conducted within 30 feet of those of any other railroad. (c) See appendix A of part 209 for a current statement of the FRA's policy on its exercise of jurisdiction. § 230.3 Implementation. Except as provided in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section, the locomotive owner and/or operator shall perform a 1472 service day inspection that meets the requirements of § 230.17 when the locomotive's flues would be required to be removed pursuant to § 230.10, of the regulations in effect prior to January 18, 2000. (See 49 CFR parts 200-999, revised October 1, 1978) At the time the locomotive owner and/or operator completes this inspection, it must begin to comply with the rest of the provisions of this part. Up until such time, and except as provided in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section, compliance with the regulations in effect prior to January 18, 2000 (See 49 CFR parts 200-999, revised October 1, 1978) will constitute full compliance with this part. Any interested person may obtain the October 1, 1978 revision of 49 CFR parts 200-999 by contacting the Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Chief Counsel, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. (a) One year after January 18, 2000. The following sections of this part must be complied with by January 18, 2001: §§ 230.7, 230.51, 230.57, 230.68, 230.70, 230.85, 230.87, 230.115, and 230.116. (b) Interim flue removal extensions. (c) Petition for special consideration. 1 1 Note: (1) Petition process. (2) FRA silence. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 74 FR 25174, May 27, 2009] § 230.4 Penalties. (a) Any person who violates any requirement of this part or causes the violation of any such requirement is subject to a civil penalty of at least $1,114 and not more than $36,439 per violation, except that: Penalties may be assessed against individuals only for willful violations, and, where a grossly negligent violation or a pattern of repeated violations has created an imminent hazard of death or injury to persons, or has caused death or injury, a penalty not to exceed $145,754 per violation may be assessed. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. See appendix A of part 209 for a statement of agency civil penalty policy. (b) Any person who knowingly and willfully falsifies a record or report required by this part may be subject to criminal penalties under 49 U.S.C. 21311. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 69 FR 30594, May 28, 2004; 72 FR 51197, Sept. 6, 2007; 73 FR 79703, Dec. 30, 2008; 77 FR 24421, Apr. 24, 2012; 81 FR 43111, July 1, 2016; 82 FR 16134, Apr. 3, 2017; 83 FR 60748, Nov. 27, 2018; 84 FR 37074, July 31, 2019; 86 FR 1759, Jan. 11, 2021; 86 FR 23255, May 3, 2021; 87 FR 15869, Mar. 21, 2022; 88 FR 1128, Jan. 6, 2023; 88 FR 89563, Dec. 28, 2023; 89 FR 106296, Dec. 30, 2024] § 230.5 Preemptive effect. The Locomotive Boiler Inspection Act (49 U.S.C. 20701-20703) preempts all State laws or regulations concerning locomotive safety. Napier Atlantic Coast Line R.R., i.e., § 230.6 Waivers. (a) A person subject to a requirement of this part may petition the Administrator of FRA for a waiver of compliance with such requirement. The filing of such a petition does not affect that person's responsibility for compliance with that requirement while the petition is being considered. (b) Each petition for waiver under this section must be filed in the manner and contain the information required by part 211 of this chapter. (c) If the Administrator finds that a waiver of compliance is in the public interest and is consistent with railroad safety, the Administrator may grant the waiver subject to any conditions the Administrator deems necessary. Where a waiver is granted, the Administrator publishes a notice containing the reasons for granting the waiver. (d) All waivers of every form and type from any requirement of any order or regulation implementing the Locomotive Boiler Inspection Act, 36 Stat. 913, as amended, 49 U.S.C. 20702, applicable to one or more steam locomotives, shall lapse on January 18, 2000 unless a copy of the grant of waiver is filed for reassessment prior to that date with the Office of Safety, Federal Railroad Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. FRA will review the waiver and notify the applicant whether the waiver has been continued. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 74 FR 25174, May 27, 2009] § 230.7 Responsibility for compliance. (a) The locomotive owner and/or operator is directly responsible for ensuring that all requirements of this part are satisfied, and is the entity primarily responsible for compliance with this part. (b) Although the duties imposed by this part are generally stated in terms of the duties of a railroad or a steam locomotive owner and/or operator, any person, including a contractor for a railroad, who performs any function covered by this part must perform that function in accordance with this part. (c) Chapter 207 of Title 49 of the United States Codes makes it unlawful for any railroad to use or permit to be used on its line any steam locomotive or tender unless the entire steam locomotive or tender and its parts and appurtenances are in proper condition and safe to operate in the service to which they are put, without unnecessary danger of personal injury and have been inspected and tested as required by this part. § 230.8 Definitions. As used in this part, the terms listed in this section have the following definitions: Administrator. Alteration. ANSI. API. ASME. Boiler surfaces. Break. Code of original construction. Crack. Dead locomotive. Fire. FRA. Locomotive operator. Locomotive owner. MAWP. NBIC. NDE. NPS. Person. Railroad. Renewal. Repair. Serious injury. Service day. Stayed portion of the boiler. Steam locomotive. Unstayed portion of the boiler. Wastage. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28126, July 1, 2025] § 230.10 [Reserved] General Inspection Requirements § 230.11 Repair of non-complying conditions. The steam locomotive owner and/or operator shall repair any steam locomotive that fails to comply with the conditions of this part, and shall approve any such repairs made, before placing the locomotive back into service. § 230.12 Movement of non-complying steam locomotives. (a) General limitations on movement. (b) Conditions for movement. (1) The steam locomotive number; (2) The name of the inspecting entity; (3) The inspection location and date; (4) The nature of the defect; (5) Movement restrictions, if any; (6) The destination; and (7) The signature of the person making the determinations required by this paragraph (b). (c) Yard movements. (d) Non-complying conditions developed en route. (e) Special notice for repair. § 230.13 Daily inspection. (a) General. (b) Pre-departure. (1) Water glasses and gauge cocks; (2) Boiler feedwater delivery systems, such as injectors and feedwater pumps; and (3) Air compressors and governors, and the air brake system. (c) Inspection reports. § 230.14 Thirty-one (31) service day inspection. (a) General. (b) FRA notification. (c) Filing inspection reports. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28167, July 1, 2025] § 230.15 Ninety-two (92) service day inspection. (a) General. (b) Filing inspection reports. When the report of annual inspection (FRA Form No. 3), is filed, the FRA Form No. 1 does not have to be filed until the next 92 service day inspection. (See appendix C of this part.) [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28167, July 1, 2025] § 230.16 Annual inspection. (a) General. (2) Fifth annual inspection. (b) FRA notification. (c) Filing inspection reports. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28167, July 1, 2025] § 230.17 One thousand four hundred seventy-two (1472) service day inspection. (a) General. (b) Filing inspection reports. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28168, July 1, 2025] Recordkeeping Requirements § 230.18 Service days. (a) Service day record. (b) Service day report. (c) Retirement where no service day reports filed. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28168, July 1, 2025] § 230.19 Posting of FRA Form No. 1 and FRA Form No. 3. (a) FRA Form No. 1. (b) FRA Form No. 3. § 230.20 Alteration and repair report for steam locomotive boilers. (a) Alterations. (b) Welded and riveted repairs to unstayed portions of the boiler. (c) Welded and riveted repairs to stayed portions of the boiler. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28168, July 1, 2025] § 230.21 Steam locomotive number change. When a steam locomotive number is changed, the steam locomotive owner and/or operator must reflect the change in the upper right-hand corner of all documentation related to the steam locomotive by showing the old and new numbers: Old No. 000 New No. XXX. § 230.22 Accident reports. In the case of an accident due to failure, from any cause, of a steam locomotive boiler or any part or appurtenance thereof, resulting in serious injury or death to one or more persons, the railroad on whose line the accident occurred shall immediately make a telephone report of the accident by calling the National Response Center (toll free) at Area Code 800-424-0201. The report shall state the nature of the accident, the number of persons killed or seriously injured, the place at which it occurred, and the location where the steam locomotive may be inspected. Confirmation of this report shall be immediately mailed to the Associate Administrator for Safety, Federal Railroad Administration, Washington, DC 20590, and contain a detailed report of the accident, including, to the extent known, the causes and a complete list of the casualties. Subpart B—Boilers and Appurtenances § 230.23 Responsibility for general construction and safe working pressure. The steam locomotive owner and operator are responsible for the general design and construction of the steam locomotive boilers under their control. The steam locomotive owner shall establish the safe working pressure for each steam locomotive boiler, after giving full consideration to the general design, workmanship, age, and overall condition of the complete boiler unit. The condition of the boiler unit shall be determined by, among other factors, the minimum thickness of the shell plates, the lowest tensile strength of the plates, the efficiency of the longitudinal joint, the inside diameter of the course, and the maximum allowable stress value allowed. The steam locomotive operator shall not place the steam locomotive in service before ensuring that the steam locomotive's safe working pressure has been established. Allowable Stress § 230.24 Maximum allowable stress. (a) Maximum allowable stress value. 1/4 (b) Safety factor. § 230.25 Maximum allowable stress on stays and braces. The maximum allowable stress per square inch of net cross sectional area on fire box and combustion chamber stays shall be 7,500 psi. The maximum allowable stress per square inch of net cross sectional area on round, rectangular, or gusset braces shall be 9,000 psi. Strength of Materials § 230.26 Tensile strength of shell plates. When the tensile strength of steel or wrought-iron shell plates is not known, it shall be taken at 50,000 psi for steel and 45,000 psi for wrought iron. § 230.27 Maximum shearing strength of rivets. The maximum shearing strength of rivets per square inch of cross sectional area shall be taken as follows: Rivets Pounds per square inch Iron Rivets in Single Shear 38,000 Iron Rivets in Double Shear 76,000 Steel Rivets in Single Shear 44,000 Steel Rivets in Double Shear 88,000 § 230.28 Higher shearing strength of rivets. A higher shearing strength may be used for rivets when it can be shown through testing that the rivet material used is of such quality as to justify a higher allowable shearing strength. Inspection and Repair § 230.29 Inspection and repair. (a) Responsibility. (b) Repair standards. (2) Any welding to unstayed portions of the boiler made pursuant to § 230.33 shall be made in accordance with an accepted national standard for boiler repairs. The steam locomotive owner and/or operator shall not return the steam locomotive boiler or appurtenances to service unless they are in good condition and safe and suitable for service. § 230.30 Lap-joint seam boilers. Every boiler having lap-joint longitudinal seams without reinforcing plates shall have sufficient lagging, jacketing, flues, and tubes removed at every annual inspection so that an inspection of the entire joint, inside and out, can be made, taking special care to detect grooving or cracks at the edges of the seams. § 230.31 Flues to be removed. (a) Inspection of the boiler interior. (b) NDE testing. § 230.32 Time and method of inspection. (a) Time of inspection. (b) Method of inspection Entire boiler. (2) Boiler interior. (3) Boiler exterior. § 230.33 Welded repairs and alterations. (a) Unstayed portions of the boiler containing alloy steel or carbon steel with a carbon content over 0.25 percent. (b) Unstayed portions of the boiler containing carbon steel not exceeding 0.25 percent carbon. (c) Wastage. 1/2 (d) Flush patches. (e) Stayed portions of the boiler. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28168, July 1, 2025] § 230.34 Riveted repairs and alterations. (a) Alterations to unstayed portions of the boiler. (b) Repairs to unstayed portions of the boiler. (c) Repairs to stayed portions of the boiler. [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28168, July 1, 2025] Pressure Testing of Boilers § 230.35 Pressure testing. The temperature of the steam locomotive boiler shall be raised to at least 70 deg. F any time hydrostatic pressure is applied to the boiler. § 230.36 Hydrostatic testing of boilers. (a) Time of test. (1) During the 1472 service day inspection, and at every annual inspection thereafter; (2) After making any alteration to the boiler; (3) After installing a flush patch on an unstayed portion of the boiler; and (4) After any riveting on an unstayed portion of the boiler. (b) Method of testing. (c) Internal inspection. § 230.37 Steam test following repairs or alterations. Upon completion of any repair or alteration, the locomotive owner and/or operator shall conduct a steam test of the boiler with steam pressure raised to between 95 percent and 100 percent of the MAWP. At this time, the boiler shall be inspected to ensure that it is in a safe and suitable condition for service. Staybolts § 230.38 Telltale holes. (a) Staybolts less than 8 inches long. 3/16 7/32 1/4 (b) Reduced body staybolts. (c) Telltale holes kept open. § 230.39 Broken staybolts. (a) Maximum allowable number of broken staybolts. (b) Staybolt replacement. 3/16 7/32 1/4 3/16 7/32 (c) Assessment of broken staybolts. (d) Prohibited methods of closing telltale holes. § 230.40 Time and method of staybolt testing. (a) Time of hammer testing (2) Exception for inaccessible staybolts. The removal of brickwork or grate bearers for the purpose of hammer testing staybolts during each 31 service day inspection will not be required if the staybolts behind these structural impediments have a telltale hole 3/16 7/32 (b) Method of hammer testing. § 230.41 Flexible staybolts with caps. (a) General. (b) Drilled flexible staybolts. 3/16 7/32 (c) Recordkeeping. (d) Testing at request of FRA inspector. Steam Gauges § 230.42 Location of gauges. Every boiler shall have at least one steam gauge which will correctly indicate the working pressure. The gauge shall be positioned so that it will be kept reasonably cool and can conveniently be read by the engine crew. § 230.43 Gauge siphon. The steam gauge supply pipe shall have a siphon on it of ample capacity to prevent steam from entering the gauge. The supply pipe shall directly enter the boiler and be maintained steam tight. The supply pipe and its connections shall be cleaned each time the gauge is tested. § 230.44 Time of testing. Steam gauges shall be tested prior to being installed or being reapplied, during the 92 service day inspection, and whenever any irregularity is reported. § 230.45 Method of testing. Steam gauges shall be compared with an accurate test gauge or dead weight tester. While under test load at the MAWP of the boiler to which the gauge will be applied, the gauge shall be set to read that pressure as accurately as the physical limitations of the gauge will allow. Under test the gauge shall read within the manufacturer's tolerance at all points on the gauge up to 25 percent above the allowed pressure. If the manufacturer's tolerance is not known, the gauge must read within 2 percent full scale accuracy at all points on the gauge up to 25 percent above allowed pressure. § 230.46 Badge plates. A metal badge plate showing the allowed steam pressure shall be attached to the boiler backhead in the cab. If boiler backhead is lagged, the lagging and jacket shall be cut away so that the plate can be seen. § 230.47 Boiler number. (a) Generally. (b) Numbers after January 10, 1912. 3/8 (c) Name of manufacturer or owner. Safety Relief Valves § 230.48 Number and capacity. (a) Number and capacity. (b) Determination of capacity. § 230.49 Setting of safety relief valves. (a) Qualifications of individual who adjusts. (b) Opening pressures. (c) Setting procedures. 3/4 (d) Labeling of lowest set pressure. § 230.50 Time of testing. All safety relief valves shall be tested, and adjusted if necessary, under steam at every 92 service day inspection, and also whenever any irregularity is reported. Water Glasses and Gauge Cocks § 230.51 Number and location. Every boiler shall be equipped with at least two water glasses. The lowest reading of the water glasses shall not be less than 3 inches above the highest part of the crown sheet. If gauge cocks are used, the reading of the lowest gauge cock shall not be less than 3 inches above the highest part of the crown sheet. § 230.52 Water glass valves. All water glasses shall be equipped with no more than two valves capable of isolating the water glass from the boiler. They shall also be equipped with a drain valve capable of evacuating the glass when it is so isolated. § 230.53 Time of cleaning. The spindles of all water glass valves and of all gauge cocks shall be removed and valves and cocks thoroughly cleaned of scale and sediment at every 31 service day inspection, and when testing indicates that the apparatus may be malfunctioning. In addition, the top and bottom passages of the water column shall be cleaned and inspected at each annual inspection. § 230.54 Testing and maintenance. (a) Testing. (b) Maintenance. § 230.55 Tubular type water and lubricator glasses and shields. (a) Water glasses. (b) Shields. (c) Location and maintenance. § 230.56 Water glass lamps. All water glasses must be supplied with a suitable lamp properly located to enable the engine crew to easily see the water in the glass. Injectors, Feedwater Pumps, and Flue Plugs § 230.57 Injectors and feedwater pumps. (a) Water delivery systems required. (b) Maintenance and testing. (c) Bracing. § 230.58 Flue plugs. (a) When plugging is permitted. 1/4 1/4 (b) Method of plugging. 5/8 Fusible Plugs § 230.59 Fusible plugs. If boilers are equipped with fusible plugs, the plugs shall be removed and cleaned of scale each time the boiler is washed but not less frequently than during every 31 service day inspection. Their removal shall be noted on the FRA Form No. 1 or FRA Form No. 3. (See appendix B of this part.) Washing Boilers § 230.60 Time of washing. (a) Frequency of washing. (b) Plug removal. (c) Plug maintenance. (d) Fusible plugs cleaned. § 230.61 Arch tubes, water bar tubes, circulators and thermic siphons. (a) Frequency of cleaning. (b) Defects. (c) Method of examination. Steam Pipes § 230.62 Dry pipe. Dry pipes subject to pressure shall be examined at each annual inspection to measure wall thickness. Dry pipes with wall thickness reduced below that required to render the pipe suitable for the service intended at the MAWP must be replaced or repaired. § 230.63 Smoke box, steam pipes and pressure parts. The smoke box, steam pipes and pressure parts shall be inspected at each annual inspection, or any other time that conditions warrant. The individual conducting the inspection must enter the smoke box to conduct the inspection, looking for signs of leaks from any of the pressure parts therein and examining all draft appliances. Steam Leaks § 230.64 Leaks under lagging. The steam locomotive owner and/or operator shall take out of service at once any boiler that has developed a leak under the lagging due to a crack in the shell, or to any other condition which may reduce safety. Pursuant to § 230.29, the boiler must be repaired before being returned to service. § 230.65 Steam blocking view of engine crew. The steam locomotive owner and/or operator shall keep the boiler, and its piping and appurtenances, in such repair that they do not emit steam in a manner that obscures the engine crew's vision. Subpart C—Steam Locomotives and Tenders § 230.66 Design, construction, and maintenance. The steam locomotive owner and operator are responsible for the general design, construction and maintenance of the steam locomotives and tenders under their control. § 230.67 Responsibility for inspection and repairs. The steam locomotive owner and/or operator shall inspect and repair all steam locomotives and tenders under their control. All defects disclosed by any inspection shall be repaired in accordance with accepted industry standards, which may include established railroad practices, before the steam locomotive or tender is returned to service. The steam locomotive owner and/or operator shall not return the steam locomotive or tender to service unless they are in good condition and safe and suitable for service. Speed Indicators § 230.68 Speed indicators. Steam locomotives that operate at speeds in excess of 20 miles per hour over the general system of railroad transportation shall be equipped with speed indicators. Where equipped, speed indicators shall be maintained to ensure accurate functioning. Ash Pans § 230.69 Ash pans. Ash pans shall be securely supported from mud-rings or frames with no part less than 2 1/2 Brake and Signal Equipment § 230.70 Safe condition. (a) Pre-departure inspection. (1) The brakes on the steam locomotive and tender are in safe and suitable condition for service; (2) The air compressor or compressors are in condition to provide an ample supply of air for the locomotive service intended; (3) The devices for regulating all pressures are properly performing their functions; (4) The brake valves work properly in all positions; and (5) The water has been drained from the air-brake system. (b) Brake pipe valve required. § 230.71 Orifice testing of compressors. (a) Frequency of testing. (b) Orifice testing criteria. Make Compressor size Single strokes per minute Diameter of orifice Air pressure maintained Westinghouse 9 1 2 120 11 64 60 Westinghouse 11 100 3 16 60 Westinghouse 150 CFM 8 1 2 100 9 32 60 Westinghouse 120 CFM 8 1 2 100 15 64 60 New York 2a 120 5 32 60 New York 6a 100 13 64 60 New York 5b 100 15 64 60 Note: (2) For compressors not listed in the table in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the air pressure to be maintained shall be no less than 80 percent of the manufacturer's rated capacity for the compressor. § 230.72 Testing main reservoirs. (a) Hammer and hydrostatic testing. (b) Drilling of main reservoirs. 3/16 D = (.6PR/(S−.6P)) Where: D = Extreme depth of telltale holes in inches but in no case less than one-sixteenth inch; P = certified working pressure in psi; S = 1/5 R = inside radius of the reservoir in inches. (2) One row of holes shall be drilled lengthwise of the reservoir on a line intersecting the drain opening. When main reservoirs are drilled as described in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the hydrostatic and hammer tests described in paragraph (a) of this section are not required during the annual inspection. Whenever any telltale hole shall have penetrated the interior of any reservoir, the reservoir shall be permanently withdrawn from service. (c) Welded main reservoirs without longitudinal lap seams. t = (PR/(S−.6P) Where: t = Minimum value for wall thickness; P = Certified working pressure in psi; S = 1/5 R = Inside radius of the reservoir in inches. (d) Welded or riveted longitudinal lap seam main reservoirs. t = (PR/(0.5S−0.6P)) Where: t = Minimum value for wall thickness; P = Certified working pressure in psi; S = 1/5 R = Inside radius of the reservoir in inches. (2) Repairs of reservoirs with reduced wall thickness are prohibited. § 230.73 Air gauges. (a) Location. (b) Frequency of testing. (c) Method of testing. § 230.74 Time of cleaning. All valves in the air brake system, including related dirt collectors and filters, shall be cleaned and tested in accordance with accepted brake equipment manufacturer's specifications, or as often as conditions require to maintain them in a safe and suitable condition for service, but not less frequently than after 368 service days or during the second annual inspection, whichever occurs first. § 230.75 Stenciling dates of tests and cleaning. The date of testing and cleaning and the initials of the shop or station at which the work is done, shall legibly be stenciled in a conspicuous place on the tested parts or placed on a card displayed under a transparent cover in the cab of the steam locomotive. § 230.76 Piston travel. (a) Minimum piston travel. (b) Maximum piston travel. Type of wheel brake Maximum piston travel (in inches) Cam Type Driving Wheel Brake 3 1 2 Other forms of Driving Wheel Brake 6 Engine Truck Brake 8 Tender Brake 9 § 230.77 Foundation brake gear. (a) Maintenance. (b) Distance above the rails. 1/2 § 230.78 Leakage. (a) Main reservoirs and related piping. (b) Brake cylinders. (c) Brake pipes. § 230.79 Train signal system. Where utilized, the train signal system, or any other form of on-board communication, shall be tested and known to be in safe and suitable condition for service at the beginning of each day the locomotive is used. Cabs, Warning Signals, Sanders and Lights § 230.80 Cabs. (a) General provisions. (b) Steam pipes. 1/8 (c) Oil-burning steam locomotives. § 230.81 Cab aprons. (a) General provisions. (b) Width of apron. § 230.82 Fire doors. (a) General provisions. (b) Mechanically operated fire doors. (c) Hand-operated doors. § 230.83 Cylinder cocks. Each steam locomotive shall be equipped with cylinder cocks which can be operated from the cab of the steam locomotive. All cylinder cocks shall be maintained in a safe and suitable condition for service. § 230.84 Sanders. Steam locomotives shall be equipped with operable sanders that deposit sand on the rail head in front of a set of driving wheels. Sanders shall be tested at the beginning of each day the locomotive is used. § 230.85 Audible warning device. (a) General provisions. (b) Method of measurement. § 230.86 Required illumination. (a) General provisions. (b) Dimming device. (c) Where multiple locomotives utilized. § 230.87 Cab lights. Each steam locomotive shall have cab lights that sufficiently illuminate the control instruments, meters and gauges to allow the engine crew to make accurate readings from their usual and proper positions in the cab. These lights shall be so located and constructed that the light will shine only on those parts requiring illumination and does not interfere with the engine crew's vision of the track and signals. Each steam locomotive shall also have a conveniently located additional lamp that can be readily turned on and off by the persons operating the steam locomotive and that provides sufficient illumination to read train orders and timetables. Throttles and Reversing Gear § 230.88 Throttles. Throttles shall be maintained in safe and suitable condition for service, and efficient means shall be provided to hold the throttle lever in any desired position. § 230.89 Reverse gear. (a) General provisions. (b) Air-operated power reverse gear. (c) Power reverse gear reservoirs. Draw Gear and Draft Systems § 230.90 Draw gear between steam locomotive and tender. (a) Maintenance and testing. (b) Safety bars and chains generally. (c) Minimum length of safety chains or bars. (d) Lost motion. 1/2 (e) Spring buffers. 3/4 § 230.91 Chafing irons. Chafing irons that permit proper curving shall be securely attached to the steam locomotive and tender, and shall be maintained to permit lateral and vertical movement. § 230.92 Draw gear and draft systems. Couplers, draft gear and attachments on steam locomotives and tenders shall be securely fastened, and maintained in safe and suitable condition for service. Driving Gear § 230.93 Pistons and piston rods. (a) Maintenance and testing. (b) Fasteners. § 230.94 Crossheads. Crossheads shall be maintained in a safe and suitable condition for service, with not more than 1/4 5/16 § 230.95 Guides. Guides shall be securely fastened and maintained in a safe and suitable condition for service. § 230.96 Main, side, and valve motion rods. (a) General. (b) Repairs. (c) Bearings and bushings. (d) Side motion of rods. 1/4 (e) Oil and grease cups. (f) Main rod bearings. 3/32 5/32 (g) Side rod bearings. 5/32 3/16 [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 90 FR 28168, July 1, 2025] § 230.97 Crank pins. (a) General provisions. (b) Maintenance. Running Gear § 230.98 Driving, trailing, and engine truck axles. (a) Condemning defects. (1) Bent axle; (2) Cut journals that cannot be made to run cool without turning; (3) Transverse seams in iron or steel axles; (4) Seams in axles causing journals to run hot; (5) Axles that are unsafe on account of usage, accident or derailment; (6) Any axle worn 1/2 (7) Any driving axles other than main driving axles with an original or new diameter greater than 6 inches that are worn 3/4 (b) Journal diameter stamped. § 230.99 Tender truck axles. The minimum diameters of axles for various axle loads shall be as follows: Axle load (in pounds) Minimum Minimum Minimum 50000 5 1 2 7 3 8 6 7 16 38000 5 6 3 4 5 7 8 31000 4 1 2 6 1 4 5 5 16 22000 3 3 4 5 4 3 8 15000 3 1 4 4 5 8 3 7 8 § 230.100 Defects in tender truck axles and journals. (a) Tender truck axle condemning defects. (1) Axles that are bent; (2) Collars that are broken, cracked, or worn to 1/4 (3) Truck axles that are unsafe on account of usage, accident, or derailment; (4) A fillet in the back shoulder that is worn out; or (5) A gouge between the wheel seats that is more than 1/8 (b) Tender truck journal condemning defects. (1) Cut journals that cannot be made to run cool without turning; (2) Seams in axles causing journals to run hot; (3) Overheating, as evidenced by pronounced blue black discoloration; (4) Transverse seams in journals of iron or steel axles; or (5) Journal surfaces having any of the following: (i) A circumferential score; (ii) Corrugation; (iii) Pitting; (iv) Rust; (v) Etching. § 230.101 Steam locomotive driving journal boxes. (a) Driving journal boxes. (b) Broken bearings. (c) Loose bearings. § 230.102 Tender plain bearing journal boxes. Plain bearing journal boxes with the following defects shall be removed from service immediately and repaired: (a) A box that does not contain visible free oil; (b) A box lid that is missing, broken, or open except to receive servicing; (c) A box containing foreign matter, such as dirt, sand, or coal dust that can reasonably be expected to damage the bearing; or have a detrimental effect on the lubrication of the journal and bearing; (d) A lubricating pad that: (1) Is missing; (2) Is not in contact with the journal; (3) Has a tear extending half the length or width of the pad, or more, except by design; (4) Shows evidence of having been scorched, burned, or glazed; (5) Contains decaying or deteriorated fabric that impairs proper lubrication of the pad; (6) Has an exposed center core (except by design); or (7) Has metal parts contacting the journal; (e) A plain bearing that: (1) Is missing, cracked, broken; (2) Has a bearing liner loose; (3) Has a broken out piece; or (4) Has indications of having been overheated, as evidenced by: (i) Melted babbitt: (ii) Smoke from hot oil; or (iii) Journal surface damage; or (f) A plain bearing wedge that: (1) Is missing, cracked or broken; or (2) Is not located in its design position. § 230.103 Tender roller bearing journal boxes. Tender roller bearing journal boxes shall be maintained in a safe and suitable condition. § 230.104 Driving box shoes and wedges. Driving box shoes and wedges shall be maintained in a safe and suitable condition for service. § 230.105 Lateral motion. (a) Condemning limits. Inches Engine truck wheels (with swing centers) 1 Engine truck wheels (with rigid centers) 1 1 2 Trailing truck wheels 1 Driving wheels 3 4 (b) Limits increased. (c) Non-interference with other parts. Trucks, Frames and Equalizing System § 230.106 Steam locomotive frame. (a) Maintenance and inspection. (b) Broken frames. § 230.107 Tender frame and body. (a) Maintenance. (b) Height difference. 1/2 (c) Gangway minimum width. (d) Tender frame condemning defects. (1) Portions of the tender frame or body (except wheels) that have less than a 2 1/2 (2) Tender center sill that is broken, cracked more than 6 inches, or permanently bent or buckled more than 2 1/2 (3) Tender coupler carrier that is broken or missing; (4) Tender center plate, any portion of which is missing or broken or that is not properly secured; or (5) Tender that has a broken side sill, crossbearer, or body bolster. § 230.108 Steam locomotive leading and trailing trucks. (a) Maintenance. 3/4 1/2 (b) Safety chain required. (c) Clearance required. § 230.109 Tender trucks. (a) Tender truck frames. 3/4 (b) Tender truck bolsters. (c) Condemning defects for springs or spring rigging. (1) An elliptical spring with its top (long) leaf or any other five leaves in the entire spring pack broken; (2) A broken coil spring or saddle; (3) A coil spring that is fully compressed; (4) A broken or cracked equalizer, hanger, bolt, gib or pin; (5) A broken coil spring saddle; and (6) A semi-elliptical spring with a top (long) leaf broken or two leaves in the top half broken, or any three leaves in the entire spring broken. (d) Tender securing arrangement. (e) Side bearings and truck centering devices. (f) Friction side bearings. (g) Side bearings. 3/8 3/4 § 230.110 Pilots. (a) General provisions. (b) Minimum and maximum clearance. § 230.111 Spring rigging. (a) Arrangement of springs and equalizers. (b) Spring or spring rigging condemning defects. (1) Top leaf broken or two leaves in top half or any three leaves in spring broken. (The long side of a spring to be considered the top.) Broken springs not exceeding these requirements may be repaired by applying clips providing the clips can be made to remain in place; (2) Any spring with leaves excessively shifting in the band; (3) Broken coil springs; or (4) Broken driving box saddle, equalizer, hanger, bolt, or pin. Wheels and Tires § 230.112 Wheels and tires. (a) Mounting. 3/32 (b) Gage. 3/8 1/2 1/8 (c) Flange distance variance. 1/4 (d) Tire thickness. 1/8 Weight per axle (weight on drivers divided by number of pairs of driving wheels) Diameter of wheel center (inches) Minimum thickness (inches) 30,000 pounds and under 44 and under 1 1 4 Over 44 to 50 1 5 16 Over 50 to 56 1 3 8 Over 56 to 62 1 7 16 Over 62 to 68 1 1 2 Over 68 to 74 1 9 16 Over 74 1 5 8 Over 30,000 to 35,000 pounds 44 and under 1 5 16 Over 44 to 50 1 3 8 Over 50 to 56 1 7 16 Over 56 to 62 1 1 2 Over 62 to 68 1 9 16 Over 68 to 74 1 5 8 Over 74 1 11 16 Over 35,000 to 40,000 pounds 44 and under 1 3 8 Over 44 to 50 1 7 16 Over 50 to 56 1 1 2 Over 56 to 62 1 9 16 Over 62 to 68 1 5 8 Over 68 to 74 1 11 16 Over 74 1 3 4 Over 40,000 to 45,000 pounds 44 and under 1 7 16 Over 44 to 50 1 1 2 Over 50 to 56 1 9 16 Over 56 to 62 1 5 8 Over 62 to 68 1 11 16 Over 68 to 74 1 3 4 Over 74 1 13 16 Over 45,000 to 50,000 pounds 44 and under 1 1 2 Over 44 to 50 1 9 16 Over 50 to 56 1 5 8 Over 56 to 62 1 11 16 Over 62 to 68 1 3 4 Over 68 to 74 1 13 16 Over 74 1 7 8 Over 50,000 to 55,000 pounds 44 and under 1 9 16 Over 44 to 50 1 5 8 Over 50 to 56 1 11 16 Over 56 to 62 1 3 4 Over 62 to 68 1 13 16 Over 68 to 74 1 7 8 Over 74 1 15 16 Over 55,000 pounds 44 and under 1 5 8 Over 44 to 50 1 11 16 Over 50 to 56 1 3 4 Over 56 to 62 1 13 16 Over 62 to 68 1 7 8 Over 68 to 74 1 15 16 Over 74 2 (e) Tire width. 1/2 1/2 § 230.113 Wheels and tire defects. Steam locomotive and tender wheels or tires developing any of the defects listed in this section shall be removed from service immediately and repaired. Except as provided in § 230.114, welding on wheels and tires is prohibited. A wheel that has been welded is a welded wheel for the life of the wheel. (a) Cracks or breaks. (b) Flat spots. 1/2 (c) Chipped flange. 1/2 1/2 (d) Broken rims. 5/8 3/4 (e) Shelled-out spots. 1/2 (f) Seams. 3/4 (g) Worn flanges. 15/16 3/8 (h) Worn treads. 5/16 (i) Flange height. 1/2 (j) Rim thickness. (k) Wheel diameter. 3/32 3/32 3/32 § 230.114 Wheel centers. (a) Filling blocks and shims. (b) Wheel center condemning defects. (1) Wheels centers loose on axle; (2) Broken or defective tire fastenings; (3) Broken or cracked hubs, plates, bolts or spokes, except as provided in paragraph (b)(4) of this section; or (4) Driving or trailing wheel center with three adjacent spokes or 25 percent or more of the spokes in the wheel broken. (c) Wheel center repairs. (d) Counterbalance maintenance. Steam Locomotive Tanks § 230.115 Feed water tanks. (a) General provisions. (b) Inspection frequency. (c) Top of tender. § 230.116 Oil tanks. The oil tanks on oil burning steam locomotives shall be maintained free from leaks. The oil supply pipe shall be equipped with a safety cut-off device that: (a) Is located adjacent to the fuel supply tank or in another safe location; (b) Closes automatically when tripped and that can be reset without hazard; and (c) Can be hand operated from clearly marked locations, one inside the cab and one accessible from the ground on each exterior side of the steam locomotive. Appendix A to Part 230—Inspection Requirements The lists in this appendix are intended as guidance only. Adherence to this list does not relieve the steam locomotive owner and/or operator of responsibility for either: (1) Completing the inspection and maintenance requirements described in this part; or (2) ensuring that the steam locomotive, tender and its parts and appurtenances are safe and suitable for service. Daily Inspection Requirements; § 230.13 1. Observance of lifting pressure of the lowest safety valve. 2. Testing of water glasses and gauge cocks.* 3. Inspection of tubular water glass shields. 4. Inspection of all cab lamps.* 5. Inspection of boiler feedwater delivery systems.* 6. Inspection of lagging for indication of leaks. 7. Inspection for leaks obstructing vision of engine crew. 8. Observance of compressor(s) and governor to ascertain proper operation.* 9. Inspection of brake and signal equipment.* 10. Inspection of brake cylinders for piston travel. 11. Inspection of foundation brake gear. 12. Inspection of sanders.* 13. Inspection of draw gear and chafing irons. 14. Inspection of draft gear. 15. Inspection of crossheads and guides. 16. Inspection of piston rods and fasteners. 17. Inspection of main, side, and valve motion rods. 18. Inspection of headlights and classification lamps.* 19. Inspection of running gear. 20. Inspection of tender frames and tanks. 21. Inspection of tender trucks for amount of side bearing clearance. Note: All items marked (*) should be checked at the beginning of each day the locomotive is used. 31 Service Day Inspection Requirements; § 230.14 1. Washing of boiler. 2. Cleaning and inspection of water glass valves and gauge cocks. 3. Cleaning, washing and inspection of arch tubes, water bar tubes, circulators and siphons. 4. Removal and inspection of all washout and water tube plugs. 5. Testing of all staybolts. 6. Removal, cleaning and inspection of fusible plugs (if any). 92 Service Day Inspection Requirements; § 230.15 1. Removal and testing of all air and steam gauges. 2. Cleaning of steam gauge siphon pipe. 3. Renewal of tubular water glasses. 4. Testing and adjusting of safety relief valves. 5. Testing of main reservoir and brake cylinder leakage. 6. Entering and inspection of tender tank interior. Annual Inspection Requirements; § 230.16 1. Testing of thickness of arch and water bar tubes (arch brick to be removed) 2. Hydrostatic testing of boiler. 3. Testing of all staybolts. 4. Interior inspection of boiler. 5. Thickness verification of dry pipes. 6. Smoke box inspection. 7. Main reservoir hammer or UT testing and hydrostatic testing (for non-welded and drilled main reservoirs) 8. Removal and inspection of steam locomotive drawbar(s) and pins (NDE testing other than merely visual) 9. Inspection of longitudinal lap joint boiler seams. 5 Year Inspection Requirements; § 230.16 1. Inspection of flexible staybolt caps and sleeves. 1472 Service Day Inspection Requirements; § 230.17 1. Removal of boiler flues (as necessary) and cleaning of boiler interior. 2. Removal of jacket and lagging and inspection of boiler interior and exterior. 3. Hydrostatic testing of boiler. 4. Thickness verification (boiler survey) and recomputation and update of steam locomotive specification card, (FRA Form No. 4). Appendix B to Part 230—Diagrams and Drawings Appendix C to Part 230—FRA Inspection Forms [64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, as amended at 70 FR 41996, July 21, 2005]

Related documents

• 49 CFR Part 229 — Railroad Locomotive Safety Standards#511780
• 49 CFR Part 1251 — Railroad Service Data Reporting#512032
• 49 CFR Part 215 — Railroad Freight Car Safety Standards#511767
• 49 CFR Part 227 — Occupational Safety and Health in the Locomotive Cab#511778
• 49 CFR Part 214 — Railroad Workplace Safety#511766