Wheels and tires may not have any of the following conditions:

(a) A single flat spot that is 21⁄2 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 11⁄2 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 33⁄4 inches in width.

(d) A shelled-out spot 21⁄2 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 33⁄4 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 11⁄2 inches or more measured from tread to the top of the flange.

(i) Tires less than 11⁄2 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.