Friction (Plain) Bearings

When brake head dimensions have varied to the extent that the brake head no longer

provides full contact of the brake shoe with the wheel, the brake head shall be repaired

or replaced.

Welding of cracks or fractures or building up shall not be permitted on brake beam

tension members.

Railcar brake piston travel shall not be less than 5 inches or more than 9 inches.

Before adjusting piston travel or working on brake rigging, the cutout cock in the

brake pipe branch shall be closed and air reservoirs shall be drained. When cutout

cocks are provided in brake cylinder pipes, only the cutout cocks shall be closed and

air reservoirs need not be drained. Lockout procedures shall be be used in accordance

with the manufacturer's recommendations.

Friction (Plain) Bearings.

a. Defective Journal lubrication system. A railcar shall not be placed in, or continue in

service, if the car has a plain bearing box with a lubricating pad that:

(1) Has a tear extending half the length or width of the pad, or more.

(2) Shows evidence of having been scorched, burned, or glazed.

(3) Contains decaying or deteriorated fabric that impairs proper lubrication of the pad.

(4) Has an exposed center core (except by design).

(5) Has metal parts contacting the journal.

(6) Is missing.

(7) Is not in contact with the journal.

(8) Is contaminated because the journal has been contaminated.

(9) Has been submerged in any fluid or powdery substance.

NOTE: Friction-bearing lubricators shall be renewed if any of the above conditions exist

or at least every 36 months.

b. Defective plain bearing. Journal bearings are defective and shall be replaced if they:

(1) Are missing, cracked, or broken.

(2) Have loose liners or a broken-out piece.

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