@Dave NYC Hudson PRR K4 posted:Yeah, I did see that on the government page, but I was wondering what it all comes down to? Saw metallurgy, and other such things which of course make sense. Is the metal deteriorating, etc, etc. I know that would be one of the things, just wanted to understand what the timeline is.
The inspection mandated by the FRA, after 1472 days of operation or 15 years, whichever comes first, is all about the boiler. The entire boiler must be ultrasound tested, every square foot, both inside and outside, which obviously is checking thickness of the various steel sheets. Once all the calculations and data is submitted to the FRA for approval, the FRA re-certifies the boiler for another 1472 days or 15 years. Depending on the resources available, such an inspection could take a year or more, if done solely by volunteers, or only a few months if done by a qualified contractor or fully experienced & equipped locomotive shop.
