Passenger Trains > COTS inspection

What does the term COTS stand for?

bertini Wrote:
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> What does the term COTS stand for?


C = CLEAN O = OIL T = TEST & S = STENCIL

COT&S is more accurately described as a maintenance procedure, although the single car test (one of the final steps of the process), which verifies that the air brakes work as intended, could be considered an inspection.

Jack_Deasy Wrote:
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> COT&S is more accurately described as a
> maintenance procedure, although the single car
> test (one of the final steps of the process),
> which verifies that the air brakes work as
> intended, could be considered an inspection.

It's required of passenger equipment on a set timetable according to the type of valves that are on the car. Freight cars aren't subject to that on a calendar basis; only when the car fails a single-car test.

I've seen a few where it has become a COS(&T) or even a S...the C, O, and T having been deemed to be 'unnecessary'...

The above is also known as an "aerosol overhaul".

EMD2024 Wrote:
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> The above is also known as an "aerosol overhaul".


Or my favorite- Cut Out and Tape Stencil

Also known as a Rembrandt Repair.

If there are any doubts as to whether or not the actual essential work was truly done, particularly on a private car, then the car inspector can ask for the paperwork that documents the valves were actually removed from the car and serviced by an approved air brake shop.