Section 231.6 - Flat cars(Cars with sides 12 inches or less above the floor may be equipped the same as flat cars.)
(a)Hand brakes -(1)Number. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(a)(1) ).(2)Dimensions. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231(a)(2)).(3)Location.(i) Each hand brake shall be so located that it can be safely operated while car is in motion.(ii) The brake shaft shall be located on the end of car to the left of center, or on side of car not more than 36 inches from right-hand end thereof.(iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed.(iv) Carriers are not required to change the location of brake wheels and brake shafts on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed.(4)Manner of application. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(a)(4) ).(b)Sill steps. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(d) ).(c)Side handholds - (1)Number. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(h)(1) ).(2)Dimensions. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(h)(2) ).(3)Location.(i) Horizontal, one on face of each side sill near each end. Clearance of outer end of handhold shall be not more than 12 inches from end of car.(ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed.(4)Manner of application. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(h)(4) ).(d)End handholds - (2)Dimensions. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(i)(2) ).(3)Location.(i) Horizontal, one near each side of each end of car on face of end sill. Clearance of outer end of handhold shall be not more than 16 inches from side of car.(ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed.(4)Manner of application. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(i)(4) ).(e)Uncoupling levers. Same as specified for "Box and other house cars" (see § 231.1(k) ).