The 315 Goes Under the Microscope: Annual FRA Inspection, August 8–15 2026
Every year, the D&RGW 315 undergoes a comprehensive federally-mandated inspection — and this year’s begins August 8 in Chama.
This is far more than a look-over. Over eight days, volunteers will open the front end and clear the cinders, pull every washout plug, punch the tubes, and wash out the boiler completely. The tender is separated from the engine so its running gear, brake rigging, and drawbar can be examined — the drawbar and pins get a dye penetrant test to reveal cracks invisible to the eye.
The centerpiece comes Tuesday, August 11, when a Federal Railroad Administration inspector observes a hydrostatic test of the boiler at 200 psi — 125% of the locomotive’s maximum allowable working pressure — followed by a staybolt hammer test at 160 psi. These are the tests that certify a 131-year-old boiler is safe to carry passengers.
From there it’s air compressors rebuilt and resealed, running gear cleaned and greased, journal boxes checked, and a test fire on Friday to confirm everything works before she’s buttoned up.
It’s unglamorous, meticulous work, and it’s the reason the 315 can pull excursions this September and October. Every hour our volunteers spend on inspection week is an hour that keeps this locomotive running safely for another year.
