As I understand it, NS chose to purposely require closed windows. I know of no FRA rule against open windows. It is their playground, they make the rules. Just be happy they let a fine group such as the FWRHS out to run occasionally. If NS says closed windows, the windows will remain closed. Again, their rules, their sandbox.
I may be wrong however I don't believe friction or plain bearings are banned on Class 1s. They are only banned from interchange service AFAIK. I think, for example, the 765 has plain bearings on the drivers and it does just fine on NS. I doubt NS would allow them out at all and/or run without diesels if they weren't comfortable with it or if it was illegal.
