Re: Planning for 315 and pile driver OB excursion

I believe that 315 was brought out of retirement or entered service in 2007. As I read Title 49 - Part 230, specifically 230.17, the clock on the 1472-day (or 15 year) inspection starts the day the locomotive is placed in service, or 365 days after the first flue tube is installed....which ever comes first. Clearly, 315's Form 4 would not be expiring in 2016 due to either service days or 15 years from the first day of service. What I don't know is when the first flue was installed. The DRHS Website indicated that the locomotive was tested to 200 psi back in May of 2006, so the boiler was complete at least a year before she entered service. It also states that the original flues were cut out and the NDT work was done 2002-2004, so it was likely not complete in that timeframe.

I believe that 315 has at least a few years left before she'll need another inspection. As another poster has noted, there is also a waiver process with FRA that could extend the time.

/Kevin