 |
Re: Are Budd RDCs FRA-compliant? Are any other DMUs?
Author: SP_RedElectric
Date: 07-30-2010 - 13:13
From sources I have seen for proposed commuter rail lines, they are considered NON-COMPLIANT.
A Budd RDC can be grandfathered for continued use under the grandfather clause (49CFR238.203(d).)
Grandfathering approval is equipment and line specific. Grandfathering approval of non-compliant equipment under this paragraph is limited to usage of the equipment on a particular rail line or lines. Before grandfathered equipment can be used on another rail line, a railroad must file and secure approval of a grandfathering petition
That is why Trinity Railway Express and the Alaska Railroad were able to continue using their RDCs - as long as they are still in use, on the same railroad line, they can continue to be used. The rules typically grant exemptions for historic equipment used solely in tourist railroad service as well. But for an RDC to be acquired and moved to another line, requires a petition from the FRA to waive the requirements - and the FRA has not been keen on doing that.
A Budd RDC can be grandfathered for continued use under the grandfather clause (49CFR238.203(d).)
Grandfathering approval is equipment and line specific. Grandfathering approval of non-compliant equipment under this paragraph is limited to usage of the equipment on a particular rail line or lines. Before grandfathered equipment can be used on another rail line, a railroad must file and secure approval of a grandfathering petition
That is why Trinity Railway Express and the Alaska Railroad were able to continue using their RDCs - as long as they are still in use, on the same railroad line, they can continue to be used. The rules typically grant exemptions for historic equipment used solely in tourist railroad service as well. But for an RDC to be acquired and moved to another line, requires a petition from the FRA to waive the requirements - and the FRA has not been keen on doing that.
