January 21, 1991

CIRCULAR LETTER
(c-7606)

SUBJECT: Procedures for the Removal and Reapplication of End Caps

TO: Members and Private Car Owners

GC-WABL
TWBL-23A
(c-7606)

Recognizing that Circular Letter c-7329; issued on November 21, 1988 permitted the removal and reapplication of roller bearing end caps in order to accelerate the removal of cap screw seal rings, the Wheels, Axles, Bearings and Lubrication Committee approved the attached specific instructions for inclusion in Section G-Part II, new Rule 1K21.

Sincerely,

Leavitt A. Peterson

REMOVAL AND REAPPLICATION OF ROLLER BEARING END CAPS

1K21 Shops that needing to remove and re-apply roller bearing end caps for any reason, but are not currently certified as an AAR approved roller bearing mounting facility, must request and receive specific 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 provided:

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

c. Reused cap screws must be qualified through use of the prescribed length and straightness gage.

d. All existing locking plate information must be transferred to a new locking plate in accord with Rule 1K17.

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 (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.