49 CFR § 230.102 - Tender plain bearing journal boxes.

---
identifier: "/us/cfr/t49/s230.102"
source: "ecfr"
legal_status: "authoritative_unofficial"
title: "49 CFR § 230.102 - Tender plain bearing journal boxes."
title_number: 49
title_name: "Transportation"
section_number: "230.102"
section_name: "Tender plain bearing journal boxes."
chapter_name: "FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION"
part_number: "230"
part_name: "STEAM LOCOMOTIVE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS"
positive_law: false
currency: "2026-03-24"
last_updated: "2026-03-24"
format_version: "1.1.0"
generator: "[email protected]"
authority: "49 U.S.C. 20103, 20107, 20702; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note; and 49 CFR 1.89."
regulatory_source: "64 FR 62865, Nov. 17, 1999, unless otherwise noted."
cfr_part: "230"
---


# 230.102 Tender plain bearing journal boxes.

Plain bearing journal boxes with the following defects shall be removed from service immediately and repaired:

(a) A box that does not contain visible free oil;

(b) A box lid that is missing, broken, or open except to receive servicing;

(c) A box containing foreign matter, such as dirt, sand, or coal dust that can reasonably be expected to damage the bearing; or have a detrimental effect on the lubrication of the journal and bearing;

(d) A lubricating pad that:

(1) Is missing;

(2) Is not in contact with the journal;

(3) Has a tear extending half the length or width of the pad, or more, except by design;

(4) Shows evidence of having been scorched, burned, or glazed;

(5) Contains decaying or deteriorated fabric that impairs proper lubrication of the pad;

(6) Has an exposed center core (except by design); or

(7) Has metal parts contacting the journal;

(e) A plain bearing that:

(1) Is missing, cracked, broken;

(2) Has a bearing liner loose;

(3) Has a broken out piece; or

(4) Has indications of having been overheated, as evidenced by:

(i) Melted babbitt:

(ii) Smoke from hot oil; or

(iii) Journal surface damage; or

(f) A plain bearing wedge that:

(1) Is missing, cracked or broken; or

(2) Is not located in its design position.