Are all plain bearings banned from class 1’s? I believe since 1994 because there were a ton of excursions steam and diesel in the 1980’s with friction bearing equipment on class 1 railroads like Conrail, etc. But did NS make exceptions with the recent steam excursions because I believe 630, 4501, and 765 have plain bearing drivers. 630 was converted to oil feed in 2012 the temp sensors were high during those long NS deadhead moves and excursions. It got sidelined for emergency repairs in Virginia and a diesel had to sub for two one way excursions to Bristol and Knoxville. Diesel a NS heritage unit also subbed for two mainline excursions out of TVRM’s station in spring 2013 I believe because 630 wasn’t ready yet. I think UP and BNSF are the only railroads that will continue to allow steam with paying passengers, NS not sure yet if they will ever allow another public excursion with 611. 611 is all rollers though and I believe Amtrak certified. But it’s probably other issues that will sideline 611 unrelated to whether or not it’s fit for the mainline.
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