FRA compliance and maintenance, worked through

Part 230 steam, Part 229, inspections, records and audits, written for the people who keep heritage and tourist railroads running.

1. The 1472 inspection for steam locomotives, explained
   October 7, 2026 · 9 min read

   When a steam locomotive's 1472 inspection comes due under 49 CFR 230.17, what it must cover, the Form 3 and Form 4 filing, and what it means for your shop.

2. What counts as a service day: the FRA definition for steam
   October 7, 2026 · 7 min read

   A service day is any calendar day the boiler has steam pressure above atmospheric pressure with fire in the firebox. Which Part 230 clocks count it, and why.

3. FRA steam locomotive records: what Part 230 requires
   October 7, 2026 · 9 min read

   The records 49 CFR Part 230 requires for a steam locomotive: each FRA form, who signs it, where it is filed or posted, the deadline and how long to keep it.