Wheels and tires may not have any of the following conditions:
- (a) A single flat spot that is 2 1/2 inches or more in length, or two adjoining spots that are each two or more inches in length.
- (b) A gouge or chip in the flange that is more than 1 1/2 inches in length and 1/2 inch in width.
- (c) A broken rim, if the tread, measured from the flange at a point five-eighths inch above the tread, is less than 3 3/4 inches in width.
- (d) A shelled-out spot 2 1/2 inches or more in length, or two adjoining spots that are each two or more inches in length.
- (e) A seam running lengthwise that is within 3 3/4 inches of the flange.
- (f) A flange worn to a 7/8 inch thickness or less, gauged at a point 3/8 inch above the tread.
- (g) A tread worn hollow 5/16 inch or more on a locomotive in road service or 3/8 inch or more on a locomotive in switching service.
- (h) A flange height of 1 1/2 inches or more measured from tread to the top of the flange.
- (i) Tires less than 1 1/2 inches thick.
- (j) Rims less than 1 inch thick on a locomotive in road service or less than 3/4 inch on a locomotive in yard service.
- (k) A crack or break in the flange, tread, rim, plate, or hub.
- (l) A loose wheel or tire.
- (m) Fusion welding may not be used on tires or steel wheels of locomotives, except for the repair of flat spots and worn flanges on locomotives used exclusively in yard service. A wheel that has been welded is a welded wheel for the life of the wheel.