Flat spots on rail car wheels cause a load noise, Is this dangerous?
• Flat spots on rail wheels are quite common and are caused when the wheels end up sliding on the rails for various reasons. Generally, there is no cause for alarm. It’s like an automobile tire that wears unevenly, but isn’t replaced until tread depth is reduced to a certain point. Railroad equipment is closely monitored by the railroads and by federal and state inspectors. Flat spots are allowed to certain tolerances. The railroad maintenance personnel work hard to try and make sure these tolerances aren’t exceeded. They replace wheels on a regular basis.
