November 21, 1988

SUBJECT: Removal and Reapplication of Roller Bearing End Caps
TO: Members and Private Car Owners

File: GC-1463
TWBL-23A
(c-7329)

Gentlemen:

Noting that circular letter c-7269, dated March 21, 1988, prohibited the application of cap screw seal rings after May 1, 1988 and that several car owners have expressed interest in beginning the accelerated removal of seal rings from certain selected cars, the AAR Wheels, Axles, Bearings and Lubrication Committee has determined that those shops that desire to remove and re-apply end caps for any reason, but are not currently certified as a roller bearing mounting facility, must request and receive separate AAR approval.

To request such approval, an application must be made to the AAR Director - Technical Committees, Quality and Components. The following information must be supplied:

1. The details of procedures which will be employed to assure compliance with those parts of the specification applicable to the removal and reapplication of the roller bearing end cap. For example,

a. The wheel set must be completely removed from truck side frames (i.e. bearing not under load).

b. The procedure / practices must be in compliance with Section G-II, Rules 1G8, 1K11 (excluding references to cap screw seal rings), 1K12 and 1K15 through 1K17.

c. The cap screws must be "reusable" as determined through use of the prescribed length and straightness gage described in circular letter c-7286.

d. All existing locking plate information must be transferred / inscribed in accord with Rule 1K17 (as revised in Circular Letter c-7285). Company marks and shop code letters, must be applied in place of the company marks of the shop that mounted the bearing.

2. Identification of location of all shops removing and re-applying end caps in accordance with AAR approved procedures. Existing or proposed company marks (maximum 4 letters) and shop code
letters, indicating shop location abbreviation, (maximum 2 letters) should accompany each application for AAR approval.

3. Descriptions of all requisite equipment that will be used and training of personnel that will be accomplished, to insure compliance with the specifications and required procedures.

Subsequent to review of the submitted application with supplementing attachments, an on-site inspection may be performed by the Mechanical Inspection Department before approval is granted.

Full details of requirements will eventually be published as appropriate revisions to the Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices. It is expected that approved shops will be recognized in the quarterly Circular Letter -- Listings of Repair Facilities, Status Codes and Identification Marks.

Sincerely,

` Leavitt A. Peterson