97-6505. Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Approval of a Notification of Intent To Certify Equipment  

  • [Federal Register Volume 62, Number 50 (Friday, March 14, 1997)]
    [Notices]
    [Pages 12166-12180]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 97-6505]
    
    
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    ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
    [FRL-5710-3]
    
    
    Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year 
    Urban Buses; Approval of a Notification of Intent To Certify Equipment
    
    AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
    
    ACTION: Notice of agency approval of an application for equipment 
    certification.
    
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    SUMMARY: The Agency received an application dated March 22, 1996 from 
    the Engelhard Corporation (Engelhard) with principle place of business 
    at 101 Wood Avenue, Iselin, New Jersey for certification of urban bus 
    retrofit/rebuild equipment pursuant to 40 CFR 85.1404-85.1415. The 
    equipment is applicable to Detroit Diesel
    
    [[Page 12167]]
    
    Corporation's (DDC's) petroleum-fueled 6V92TA model engines having 
    mechanical unit injectors (MUI) that were originally manufactured 
    between January 1979 and December 1989. On May 6, 1996 EPA published a 
    notice in the Federal Register that the notification had been received 
    and made the notification available for public review and comment for a 
    period of 45 days (61 FR 20249). EPA has completed its review and the 
    Director of the Engine Programs and Compliance Division has determined 
    that it meets all the requirements for certification. Accordingly, EPA 
    certifies this equipment effective March 14, 1997.
        The certified equipment complies with the 0.10 gram per brake 
    horsepower-hour (g/bhp-hr) particulate matter (PM) standard for the 
    engines for which it is certified (see below). In addition, the 
    equipment will be offered to all parties for $7,940 or less (in 1992 
    dollars) incremental to the cost of a standard rebuild. The 
    certification of this equipment triggers requirements for transit 
    operators utilizing compliance Program 1 (excluding engines originally 
    manufactured as meeting California emissions standards) that have 
    engines in their fleet covered by this certification.
    
    DATES: The effective date of certification is March 14, 1997.
    
    ADDRESSES: The Engelhard application, as well as other materials 
    specifically relevant to it, are contained in Public Docket A-93-42, 
    Category VIII-A, entitled ``Certification of Urban Bus Retrofit/Rebuild 
    Equipment''. Docket items may be inspected from 8:00 a.m. until 5:30 
    p.m., Monday through Friday. As provided in 40 CFR Part 2, a reasonable 
    fee may be charged by the Agency for copying docket materials.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Stricker, Engine Programs and 
    Compliance Division (6403J), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 
    M St. SW, Washington, D.C. 20460. Telephone: (202) 233-9322.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
    
    I. Background and Equipment Identification
    
        By a notification of intent to certify signed March 22, 1996, 
    Engelhard Corporation (Engelhard) applied for certification of 
    equipment applicable to Detroit Diesel Corporation's (DDC) 6V92TA model 
    urban bus engines having mechanical unit injectors (MUI) that were 
    originally manufactured between model years 1979 and 1993. Today's 
    certification, however, applies only to 6V92TA MUI engines originally 
    manufactured between model years 1979 and 1989, because DDC ceased 
    production of the 6V92TA MUI after model year 1989. The certified 
    equipment, referred to as the ETX kit, consists of an engine 
    ``upgrade'' kit, a CMX-5 catalytic converter-muffler, and a proprietary 
    coating, referred to as GPX-5m, applied to the piston crowns and 
    cylinder head combustion chambers. The engine upgrade portion of the 
    kit consists of specified DDC cylinder kits, cylinder heads, camshafts, 
    turbocharger, blower, blower drive gear (hardened or non-hardened, as 
    appropriate), fuel injectors, and gasket kit. The specific combination 
    of parts to be used depends upon the direction of engine rotation, 
    orientation of the engine (tilt), and engine power level. Injector 
    height and throttle delay must be set to 1.460 inches and 0.636 inches 
    respectively for each of the three certified horsepower (HP) 
    configurations (253 HP, 277 HP, and 294 HP).
        Using engine dynamometer testing conducted on January 26, 1996 in 
    accordance with the Federal Test Procedure (FTP) for heavy-duty diesel 
    engines, Engelhard documented in its March 22, 1996 notification, PM 
    emissions below the 0.10 g/bhp-hr level. Engine throttle delay and fuel 
    injector height settings for the ETX certification test were set to 
    1.466 inches and 0.594 inches respectively in order to comply with FTP 
    cycle statistics requirements. Baseline exhaust emissions data were 
    developed by testing an engine rebuilt to a 1979 urban bus 
    configuration. This testing occurred on April 4, 1994. This set of 
    baseline and ETX test data, is hereafter referred to as the 
    ``original'' baseline and ETX certification tests, and are shown in 
    Table A.
    
                               Table A.--``Original'' Baseline and ETX Certification Data                           
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                                                                                      ``Original''                  
      ETX kit including coated exhaust manifolds, turbocharger Y-     ``Original''         ETX       1988/89 federal
     pipe, cylinder heads, and piston crowns, and throttle delay of   baseline 1979   certification      standard   
            1.466 inches and injector height of 0.594 inches           model year         test                      
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    Gaseous and particulate emissions (g/bhp-hr):                                                                   
        HC.........................................................           0.5              0.2               1.3
        CO.........................................................           1.5              0.4              15.5
        NOX........................................................          10.3             10.1              10.7
        PM.........................................................           0.213            0.08              0.6
    Smoke emissions (% opacity):                                                                                    
        Accel......................................................          NA                0.9              20  
        Lug........................................................          NA                0.6              15  
        Peak.......................................................          NA                1.3              50  
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        In response to comments from the public (discussed in detail 
    below), Engelhard removed the coated exhaust components from the ETX 
    kit, and respecified the throttle delay and injector height 
    specifications to 1.460 inches and 0.636 inches respectively. 
    Additional FTP testing of the ETX kit was conducted on September 27, 
    1996, again documenting PM emissions below the 0.10 g/bhp-hr level, 
    while complying with FTP statistical requirements. Additional baseline 
    data were developed on October 7, 1996 by testing an engine rebuilt to 
    a 1986 urban bus configuration. This set of baseline and ETX test data, 
    submitted to EPA in letters of October 21, 1996 and October 2, 1996 
    respectively, is hereafter referred to as the ``secondary'' baseline 
    and ETX certification tests, and are shown in Table B.
    
                               Table B.--``Secondary'' Baseline and ETX Certification Data                          
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                                                                                      ``Secondary''                 
    ETX kit including only coated cylinder heads and piston crowns,   ``Secondary''        ETX       1988/89 federal
    and throttle delay of 1.460 inches and injector height of 0.636   baseline 1979   certification      standard   
                               inches.\1\                              model year         test                      
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    Gaseous and particulate emissions (g/bhp-hr):                                                                   
        HC.........................................................           0.5             0.2                1.3
    
    [[Page 12168]]
    
                                                                                                                    
        CO.........................................................           1.4             0.5               15.5
        NOX........................................................          11.4            10.5               10.7
        PM.........................................................           0.194           0.083              0.6
    Smoke emissions (% opacity):                                                                                    
        Accel......................................................          NA               1.4               20  
        Lug........................................................          NA               1.4               15  
        Peak.......................................................          NA               1.9              50   
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    \1\ These are the injector height and throttle delay settings approved as part of today's certification.        
    
        Both sets of emissions test data provided by Engelhard demonstrate 
    PM emission levels are below 0.10 g/bhp-hr. However, the ``secondary'' 
    data represent the ETX equipment configuration upon which today's 
    certification is granted. The data indicate that applicable engines 
    with the certified equipment installed comply with the federal 1988 
    model year emission standards for hydrocarbon (HC), carbon monoxide 
    (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOX), and smoke emissions.
        Engelhard's March 22, 1996 notification of intent to certify 
    requests certification for DDC 6V92TA MUI engines originally certified 
    as meeting both federal and California emissions standards. However, as 
    described in more detail in the Summary and Analysis of Comments 
    section below, today's certification is limited to 1979 through 1989 
    DDC 6V92TA MUI engines originally certified as meeting federal 
    emissions standards. Today's certification does not extend 
    certification of equipment to engines originally certified as meeting 
    California emissions standards. The impact of this decision on transit 
    operators is discussed in more detail in the Transit Operator 
    Requirements section below.
        Additionally, EPA approves several supply options proposed by 
    Engelhard for transit operators to obtain this certified equipment. 
    Transit operators must purchase the CMX-5 and the GPX-5m coated 
    components of the ETX kit from Engelhard or its distributors. However, 
    in order to provide as much flexibility to transit operators as 
    possible while ensuring emissions reductions, EPA has approved several 
    options for obtaining the remainder of the components of the kit. For 
    the first supply option, transit operators purchase the entire ETX kit 
    from Engelhard or its distributors. This supply option must be 
    available to any and all transit operators, and is the option upon 
    which life cycle costs have been determined, and upon which the 0.10 g/
    bhp-hr standard is triggered. The second and third options, described 
    below, may be available at Engelhard's discretion. Transit operators 
    who choose either of the options below, do so voluntarily, and EPA 
    makes no representation concerning the impacts of either on life cycle 
    costs.
        For the second supply option, transit operators purchase the 
    specified DDC upgrade parts (excluding the coated cylinder heads and 
    piston kits, which must be obtained from Engelhard) through normal 
    supply channels. Engelhard will provide the appropriate DDC parts list 
    to the transit operator upon purchase of the CMX-5 and coated engine 
    parts. ``Equivalent'' aftermarket parts are not permitted under this 
    certification, because EPA has no assurance that such parts can achieve 
    the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard. Engelhard provides the applicable 
    100,000 mile defect warranty and 150,000 mile emissions performance 
    warranty for all parts included in the kit, whether purchased from 
    Engelhard, or through normal supply channels. Manufacturers of 
    ``equivalent'' aftermarket parts may choose to certify their parts for 
    use in the ETX kit in a separate proceeding subject to testing and 
    certain warranty concerns.
        For the third supply option, the transit operator obtains most 
    parts in the same manner described in the second option above, but 
    rebuilds or remanufactures in-house the camshafts, blower, and/or 
    turbocharger. Transit operators can perform in-house rebuilding of 
    these three components provided the transit operator meets the 
    requirements of the ``Engelhard Certified Remanufacturer Program'', and 
    the camshafts, blower, and/or turbocharger are rebuilt to the specified 
    DDC configuration.
        The Engelhard Certified Remanufacturer Program, to be administered 
    by Engelhard, is covered by today's certification as it relates to the 
    third supply option. For transit operators who choose to rebuild the 
    camshafts, blower, and/or turbocharger in-house, the Certified 
    Remanufacturer Program requires the transit operator to possess a 
    minimum of five years remanufacturing experience. In addition, 
    Engelhard will perform an initial inspection of the remanufacturing 
    operation to assess facility capabilities, and will conduct a complete 
    review of the quality control procedures and component reject rate of 
    the remanufacturing operation. Transit operators who perform adequately 
    will be designated by Engelhard as ``probational'' remanufacturing 
    sites. This facility will then be required to maintain records of all 
    critical measurements of remanufactured camshafts, blowers, and/or 
    turbochargers. These records will be inspected periodically by 
    Engelhard. Upon completion of at least two Engelhard periodic reviews 
    without any problems, the facility may be upgraded to an ``Engelhard 
    Certified Remanufacturer''. This option provides EPA with reasonable 
    assurance that the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard will be achieved, while 
    providing transit operators with reasonable sourcing flexibility.
        Engelhard is required to provide a 100,000 mile defect warranty and 
    150,000 mile emissions performance warranty for the ETX kit and all of 
    its components regardless of which of the three approved supply options 
    is used. Furthermore, EPA has authority to conduct in-use testing of 
    certified equipment to determine compliance with the requirements of 
    the program.
        As noted above, EPA is certifying option 2 and 3 to increase 
    transit operator flexibility. The option 3 Engelhard Certified 
    Remanufacturer Program is to be administered by Engelhard without 
    further explicit involvement of EPA. As with any certification, if EPA 
    determines that any supply option is not resulting in a certified 
    engine configuration, then EPA has the authority pursuant to 40 CFR 
    section 85.1413. Transit operator responsibilities are described in 
    more
    
    [[Page 12169]]
    
    detail in Section IV of today's Federal Register notice.
        The ETX equipment is certified to a PM emission level of 0.10 g/
    bhp-hr for all 1979 through 1989 DDC 6V92TA MUI urban bus engines using 
    either diesel fuel #1 or #2 (excluding those originally 
    certified as meeting California emissions standards). Table C lists the 
    applicable engine models and certification levels associated with the 
    certification announced in today's Federal Register.
    
                                             Table C.--Certification Levels                                         
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                  Engine models                               Engine code                    Certified  PM level    
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    1979-1989 Detroit diesel 6V92TA MUI......  all (excluding those originally           0.10 (g/bhp-hr)            
                                                certified as meeting California                                     
                                                emissions standards).                                               
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    II. Summary and Analysis of Comments
    
        Comments were received from nine parties in response to the Federal 
    Register notice (61 FR 50549, May 6, 1996). Commenters include Detroit 
    Diesel Corporation (an engine manufacturer), Johnson Matthey (an 
    equipment manufacturer), and several transit properties including 
    Milwaukee County Transit System (Milwaukee County), Long Beach Transit, 
    New York City Transit (NY MTA), New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit), Kansas 
    City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), Connecticut Transit (CT 
    Transit), and Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART).
        Comments generally fell into the following categories: kit 
    applicability, maintenance, fuel economy, ability of the equipment to 
    meet the 0.10 g/bhp-hr standard, backpressure, durability, toxic 
    emissions, part sourcing, and supply options. Comments outside of these 
    categories were also received, and are discussed separately below.
        In general, transit fleets commenting on this equipment are 
    concerned with fuel economy impacts, part sourcing, and equipment cost. 
    DDC, as the original manufacturer of the engines to which this 
    equipment is intended, noted it's desire to ensure that certification 
    of this equipment would not negatively impact the reliability, 
    durability, performance, or fuel economy of its engines, or in any way 
    damage their product reputation or relationship with their customers. 
    EPA appreciates the extensive comments provided by DDC, which are 
    discussed in more detail below. JMI also provided extensive comments 
    related to this equipment. Most significant are JMI's concerns that the 
    technology of spray coating components is unproven, and that 
    Engelhard's proposed supply options may present barriers to 
    competition. JMI's complete comments are also discussed in detail 
    below.
    
    a. Ability of the Kit to Meet 0.10 g/bhp-hr
    
        EPA received detailed comments from DDC regarding the ability of 
    the ETX to meet the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard. DDC performed Federal 
    transient emissions testing of the ETX kit in various configurations. 
    In addition, two transits, Long Beach and DART, raised question 
    regarding the ability of the ETX to consistently achieve the 0.10 g/
    bhp-hr level to which Engelhard requests certification.
        DDC performed testing on each of the three HP ratings described by 
    Engelhard in its original notification. In addition, DDC performed 
    testing to determine the relative PM reductions associated with 
    catalyst alone versus the entire ETX kit. DDC was unable to demonstrate 
    PM emissions at or below the 0.10 g/bhp-hr level on any of their tests, 
    and suggested that additional verification of emission reductions be 
    obtained prior to certification. In addition, DDC stated that it had 
    experience with components using ceramic coatings, noting they have 
    seen little, if any, benefits associated with the use of such coatings. 
    DDC requested that EPA quantify the reductions associated with each 
    facet of the ETX kit prior to certifying the equipment. The issues 
    raised by DDC are discussed below.
        Regarding DDC's comments on the ability of the ETX kit to achieve 
    0.10 g/bhp-hr, no explanation was provided by DDC for the difference in 
    test results between it's testing and Engelhard's testing. DDC and 
    Engelhard together reviewed test procedures, engine condition, parts 
    condition, etc., and could not agree on why the test results differed.
        However, subsequent additional review by Engelhard revealed 
    differences that Engelhard believes could potentially impact emission 
    results. As described in a September 12, 1996 letter to EPA, prior to 
    performing it's original certification test, Engelhard performed a 100-
    hour break-in on the test engine to ensure proper and adequate seating 
    of the piston rings and to stabilize emissions results. DDC, in it's 
    testing of the ETX kit, performed only 25 hours of engine break-in. 
    According to its July 18, 1996 comments, DDC believes that 25 hours is 
    sufficient to stabilize emission results for these engines. Engelhard, 
    however, pointed out that measured engine motoring losses at rated 
    speed for the DDC testing was 280 Newton-meter (Nm), versus 250 Nm for 
    the Engelhard testing, implying that the DDC test engine experienced 
    more internal frictional loss compared to the Engelhard engine. 
    Engelhard believes that the higher frictional loss measured by DDC 
    resulted from insufficient break-in, and could explain the higher PM 
    emissions measured by DDC.
        In a November 22, 1996 letter to EPA, DDC explained that the 280 Nm 
    motoring loss was from the DDC's testing of the 253 HP version of the 
    ETX kit, whereas the 250 Nm obtained in Engelhard's testing was from 
    the 294 HP version of the ETX kit. DDC states that when it tested the 
    294 HP version, the motoring loss was 274 Nm. DDC's published 
    specification for running loss on the 294 HP version 6V92TA MUI is 268 
    Nm. DDC believes that the measured motoring loss (274 Nm) is not 
    unusually high, but rather, Engelhard's measured loss is unusually low. 
    DDC believes that use of SAE30W lubrication oil, rather than the DDC-
    specified SAE40W, may account for this difference.
        Engelhard also noted that DDC performed testing at a measured 
    exhaust backpressure of 11.9 kPa (3.5 inches Hg.) compared to 6.77 kPa 
    (2.0'' Hg.) for Engelhard's January 26, 1996 test. General industry 
    practice is to test engines at 80 percent of manufacturer's recommended 
    maximum backpressure at rated speed. The test engine specification for 
    maximum recommended backpressure is 2.4'' Hg., resulting in a 
    backpressure setting for testing of 2.0'' Hg. DDC claims to have been 
    unable to achieve the 2.0'' Hg. setting, stating the catalyst unit 
    itself imposed a backpressure of 2.9'' Hg. In its November 22, 1996 
    letter to EPA, DDC noted a difference between the catalyst Engelhard 
    used in its certification testing and the catalyst
    
    [[Page 12170]]
    
    Engelhard provided to DDC for their testing. DDC contends that 
    Engelhard's certification testing was conducted with a simple flow-
    through catalyst, rather than a catalytic muffler, as utilized in DDC's 
    testing. DDC believes that the backpressure of a catalytic muffler is 
    greater than that of a simple flow-through catalyst, thus explaining 
    DDC's inability to obtain the 2.0'' Hg. backpressure specification.
        An October 17, 1996 conversation with Engelhard revealed that the 
    catalyst utilized by Engelhard in its certification testing had to be 
    modified, due to dynamometer interference, in order to be properly 
    installed in the test cell. Such modification was not necessary for 
    proper installation into DDC's test cell. Engelhard contends that the 
    incremental backpressure associated with the muffler portion of the 
    CMX-5 is minimal compared to the backpressure associated with the 
    catalyst portion of the unit. Engelhard conducted additional hot-start 
    FTP tests to demonstrate the impact of increased backpressure on the 
    ability of the ETX kit to achieve the 0.10 g/bhp-hr standard. Two FTP 
    transient FTP tests were conducted at 3.0'' Hg. and one at 4.5'' Hg. As 
    discussed in a November 24, 1996 letter from Engelhard to EPA, in each 
    case, PM results were below 0.10 g/bhp-hr, and were very close to 
    Engelhard's original and secondary certification test results. 
    Emissions of HC, CO and NOX remained below Federal standards. 
    Based on this additional testing, EPA believes that the catalyst 
    configuration difference and potential difference in backpressure does 
    not explain the difference in PM results obtained by Engelhard and DDC.
        In a September 4, 1996 letter to EPA, Engelhard noted another 
    difference between it's testing and DDC's is the fuel injectors. 
    Engelhard's test engine used injectors which fall into the DDC-
    designated category of ``premium'' Reliabuilt injectors. Engelhard 
    states that fuel flow variances among premium injectors are less 
    variable than on non-premium Reliabuilt injectors. The injectors used 
    by DDC, although consistent with the part number identified by 
    Engelhard, did not fall into this same category. At the time of 
    Engelhard's original ETX certification test of January 26, 1996, 
    Engelhard was unaware that the fuel injectors used in their test engine 
    were ``premium''. Only after attempting to resolve the testing 
    differences with DDC did Engelhard become aware of this fact. Engelhard 
    believes the more consistent fuel distribution associated with premium 
    injectors could impact emissions, and could account for some or all of 
    the difference in measured emissions between Engelhard and DDC. As a 
    result, Engelhard has specified the use of premium matched fuel 
    injectors to be used with the ETX kit. In telephone follow-up with DDC 
    on December 6, 1996, DDC stated that premium Reliabuilt injectors 
    contain more new parts, and fewer remanufactured or used parts, 
    compared to non-premium Reliabuilt injectors. DDC believes the 
    emissions performance of Reliabuilt premium injectors is equivalent to 
    the emissions performance of non-premium injectors, but acknowledges 
    that premium injectors may demonstrate superior in-use durability due 
    to the higher percentage of new parts in the injector.
        In spite of the differences noted by Engelhard between it's testing 
    and DDC's testing, EPA believed that additional data were necessary in 
    order to address the uncertainty raised by DDC's comments. To that end, 
    EPA requested that Engelhard retest the ETX kit in the presence of an 
    EPA test observer. This course of action is consistent with DDC's 
    recommendation in its comments that EPA pursue ``additional 
    verification'' of the ETX kit.
        On September 27, 1996, Engelhard performed a secondary ETX 
    certification test at SouthWest Research Institute, in San Antonio, 
    TX.1 The results of this testing indicate that the ETX kit can 
    achieve the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM level. The EPA observer found no testing 
    or procedural violations. According to DDC, two days prior to EPA's 
    visit, a DDC representative observed testing of the Engelhard equipment 
    at the same facility, and likewise found no indication of testing 
    concerns.
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        \1\ As discussed elsewhere in today's notice, in response to EPA 
    and public comments, Engelhard had modified the ETX kit by removing 
    coated exhaust components from the kit, and returning the injector 
    height and throttle delay settings to their original specifications. 
    The testing performed on September 27, 1996 served three purposes; 
    1) to address DDC's test data regarding the ability of the kit to 
    achieve 0.10 g/bhp-hr; 2) to ensure that the 0.10 g/bhp-hr level 
    could be achieved in spite of the removal of the coated exhaust 
    components and resetting of injector height and throttle delay; and 
    3) to provide additional data to be used for determining the fuel 
    economy impact of the ETX kit.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        In addition to conducting the above-noted additional test in the 
    presence of an EPA observer, Engelhard provided additional hot-start 
    transient test data in its September 4, 1996 letter (both with and 
    without coated exhaust components) that supports the consistent ability 
    of the ETX kit to meet the 0.10 g/bhp-hr standard.
        In summary, EPA believes that Engelhard has sufficiently 
    demonstrated the ability of the ETX kit to achieve the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM 
    standard. Although there is no clear explanation for the difference in 
    test results between Engelhard's testing and DDC's testing, EPA 
    believes Engelhard has provided sufficient supplemental data which 
    demonstrates the ability of the ETX kit to achieve the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM 
    standard. EPA retains authority to conduct in-use testing of certified 
    equipment as described in 40 CFR Subpart O. In addition, equipment 
    manufacturers must provide a 100,000 mile defect warranty, and a 
    150,000 mile emission performance warranty on certified equipment.
        Regarding DDC's suggestion that Engelhard quantify the relative PM 
    benefits associated with different aspects of the kit, EPA notes that 
    no such requirement exists in the certification requirements of this 
    program. EPA has in the past expressed its position that components 
    that do not contribute to the ability of equipment to reduce emissions, 
    or which are not reasonably necessary to provide the equipment 
    manufacturer with adequate liability protection, will not be considered 
    part of a certified equipment package. DDC comments that, based on it's 
    past experience, the coatings used by Engelhard in this kit may not 
    contribute to any PM reductions. However, DDC has not provided any 
    evidence that coatings which DDC has evaluated are the same, or similar 
    to, the GPX-5m coating of this equipment package. In fact, Engelhard 
    provided EPA with a confidential description of the coating and it's 
    application technique, that support Engelhard's claim that the coating 
    composition has changed over time, and likely contributes to PM 
    reduction. Without a clear indication that the current GPX-5m coating 
    does not contribute to PM reduction, EPA believes it reasonable for 
    Engelhard to include such coating as an emissions-related part of the 
    ETX kit.
    
    b. Equipment Durability
    
        Several commenters raised questions with regard to the durability 
    of the ETX kit, or its components, in actual use. NY MTA comments that 
    operating experience with the ETX kit is limited, and questions the 
    performance characteristics of the ETX kit on in-service buses. Long 
    Beach commented that there is no information to substantiate that this 
    equipment will effectively provide an average engine life of 300,000 
    miles after rebuild. KCTA stated that it has had an unfavorable 
    experience with previous generation ceramic engine coatings. KCTA has 
    used GPX coatings on three buses in the past. One bus is still in 
    service (after 2\1/2\
    
    [[Page 12171]]
    
    years of operation), a second bus lasted only 5 months, and a third 
    lasted only 10 months. No details were provided by KCTA explaining the 
    reason these buses were removed from service. KCTA recommends 
    additional testing of ceramic coatings prior to certification. NJ 
    Transit expressed concern that degradation of the proprietary spray 
    coating could leave them open to non-compliance penalties should an 
    engine equipped with the ETX kit fail to meet emissions standards in-
    use.
        DDC provided several comments regarding durability. First, DDC 
    states that new engine manufacturers are required to conduct durability 
    testing for new engine certification. DDC acknowledges that the urban 
    bus retrofit/rebuild regulations do not require such testing, but 
    expressed concern whether emissions would remain below the standard 
    throughout the life of the rebuild. In addition, DDC states that some 
    oxidation catalyst formulations can suffer from poisoning through 
    contact with exhaust gases, and states that no data have been presented 
    which shows this particular catalyst formulation is resistant to 
    poisoning. Finally, DDC comments that its experience with ceramic 
    coatings indicates that they can become overlaid with combustion 
    deposits, reducing their efficiency. However, DDC also states that they 
    have no reason to believe that thermal barrier coatings do not retain 
    their thermal insulating properties over time.
        JMI also provided several comments regarding durability. First, JMI 
    states that ceramic spray coatings are unproven technologies in diesel 
    engines. JMI expressed concern that surface contaminants, such as oil, 
    on both new and rebuilt parts may interfere with proper adhesion of the 
    coating material to the coated engine part. In addition, JMI referenced 
    a report prepared for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration 
    (NASA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) which concludes that 
    ``(r)eliability and durability of thermal barrier coatings remain major 
    issues''.
        EPA appreciates that transit operators are concerned with the 
    durability of this equipment, and subsequent additional costs or engine 
    damage that potentially could result from premature equipment failure. 
    EPA is also concerned, in general, with durability of equipment 
    certified under this program because of the potential impacts on 
    emissions. However, EPA notes that the urban bus retrofit/rebuild 
    regulations do not require an in-service durability demonstration as a 
    condition of certification, nor is certified equipment required to be 
    durable for 300,000 miles. Rather, equipment certifiers, including 
    Engelhard, are required pursuant to 40 CFR Section 85.1409 to provide a 
    100,000 mile equipment defect warranty and a 150,000 mile emissions 
    performance warranty.
        KCTA's limited experience with ceramic coated engine parts resulted 
    unfavorably. Unfortunately, KCTA's comments do not correlate the early 
    removal from service of the two KCTA buses with the use of previous 
    generation ceramic coated engine components. Nonetheless, these 
    comments raise a legitimate concern regarding durability--a concern 
    also raised by DDC and JMI in their comments, which EPA addresses 
    below.
        Regarding catalyst poisoning raised by DDC, EPA has no reason to 
    believe, nor did DDC provide a reason to suspect, that the catalyst 
    formulation used in this kit will suffer from exhaust gas poisoning. 
    Engelhard's previously certified CMX catalytic converter (60 FR 28402, 
    May 31, 1995) has been in use in the retrofit/rebuild program for over 
    a year, during which time which EPA has not become aware of any 
    incidents of catalyst poisoning. The catalyst in the ETX kit is an 
    improved version of the CMX. EPA will continue to monitor problems with 
    this, or other, certified equipment, and encourages transit operators 
    to provide any information regarding catalyst poisoning.
        JMI bases its comments regarding the viability of spray coatings 
    primarily on the conclusions reached in the NASA/DOE report prepared in 
    1991. However, EPA cannot rely on the JMI comments as a basis to deny 
    certification because JMI has provided no information to suggest the 
    coating technology analyzed in the NASA/DOE report is the same as, or 
    similar to, the GPX-5m coating used in the ETX equipment package. In 
    fact, Engelhard's confidential description of the ceramic coating and 
    it's application technique provided to EPA, highlights differences 
    between the coatings examined in the NASA/DOE study compared to the 
    coating Engelhard has developed for the ETX kit. The NASA/DOE findings 
    of 1991 indicate that, at that time, additional development of coatings 
    may have been necessary to make coating technology viable in the diesel 
    engine market place. According to the confidential information provided 
    by Engelhard, the ceramic coating technology has developed compared to 
    that examined in the NASA/DOE study.
        EPA has previously certified an Engelhard equipment package 
    utilizing GPX coatings (60 FR 47170, September 11, 1995). From the 
    standpoint of physical durability of the coating, EPA is not aware of 
    any premature wear or failure of this certified equipment. As mentioned 
    previously, in response to concerns about the physical durability of 
    the new GPX-5m coating, Engelhard provided EPA a detailed confidential 
    description of the coating and its application technique. In addition, 
    in a May 23, 1996 letter to EPA, Engelhard provided data from three in-
    use buses using previous generation GPX-4 coatings. Coating thickness 
    measurements were made on piston crowns and cylinder head combustion 
    chambers, and were found to be within nominal design specifications at 
    an average of 123,000 miles. In addition, deposit formations on the 
    combustion surfaces were nearly non-existent. Engelhard indicates that 
    design advances in the current GPX-5m coatings are intended to further 
    reduce deposit formation and increase coating durability beyond that of 
    the GPX-4 coating.
        EPA is concerned, in general, with equipment durability, and 
    believes that certifiers will evaluate the durability of their 
    equipment in order to minimize their liability resulting from the 
    emissions performance warranty. However, program regulations do not 
    require a durability demonstration. EPA believes the available 
    information does not indicate a durability concern with the equipment 
    certified in today's notice, and therefore, does not provide sufficient 
    basis to deny certification on these grounds. EPA retains authority to 
    conduct in-use testing of any certified equipment for compliance with 
    the requirements of the program. In addition, equipment certifiers must 
    provide a 100,000 mile defect warranty and a 150,000 mile emissions 
    performance warranty on all certified equipment.
        Lastly, regarding NJ Transit's concern for being subject to 
    penalties if degraded coatings cause an engine to fail to meet its 
    certified PM level, EPA notes that the equipment certifier is 
    responsible for the emissions performance of the engine through the 
    150,000 mile emissions performance warranty period, if the transit 
    properly installs and maintains equipment in accordance with the 
    equipment manufacturer's instructions. The transit operator is 
    responsible for proper installation and use of certified equipment, and 
    is responsible for the emissions performance of equipment operated 
    beyond the 150,000 miles emissions warranty period. Also, the retrofit/
    rebuild program does not obviate compliance with any state or local 
    emission requirements, such as inspection/maintenance (I/M) or smoke 
    testing programs.
    
    [[Page 12172]]
    
    c. Exhaust Backpressure
    
        DDC provided comments related to the exhaust backpressure resulting 
    from installation of the CMX-5 catalytic muffler, and its potential 
    impact on engine performance and durability. DDC provided these 
    comments in response to the proposed certification, and in a November 
    22, 1996 letter to EPA.
        DDC notes that the maximum recommended exhaust backpressure for 
    6V92TA MUI engines generally ranges from 2.5'' Hg. to 3.5'' Hg. at full 
    rated power, with the majority of engines having a backpressure 
    specification between 3.0'' Hg. and 3.5'' Hg. DDC is concerned that the 
    backpressure imposed by the CMX-5 catalyst may cause engines to exceed 
    the maximum exhaust backpressure specification recommended by DDC. DDC 
    references chassis dynamometer testing performed on several engines 
    utilizing the original CMX version catalytic muffler produced by 
    Engelhard and certified by EPA under this program. DDC comments that 
    the chassis testing shows average backpressure at rated speed and full 
    load of 5.3'' Hg. with the CMX installed, versus 3.3'' Hg. with the 
    standard exhaust muffler installed. Finally, DDC expressed its 
    opposition to the procedure recommended by Engelhard for determining 
    whether the catalyst unit requires cleaning. Engelhard's instructions 
    involve operating the engine in a rated speed, no load condition (high 
    idle) and recording the pressure drop across the CMX-5 unit. This is 
    the same procedure recommended by Engelhard for determining 
    backpressure across the original CMX catalytic muffler, and was derived 
    from DDC Service Information Bulletin 7-D-95. DDC, however, contends 
    that this service procedure was only intended for a limited population 
    of 6V92TA engines that were originally equipped with particulate traps. 
    Pursuant to an agreement with EPA, these traps were removed and 
    replaced with catalytic converter-mufflers because of severe durability 
    concerns.
        The chassis dynamometer data provided by DDC were generated on 
    buses operated by a fleet located in the Northeast. The Agency's 
    follow-up conversations with that fleet indicate that a venturi was 
    improperly installed when measuring the backpressure, resulting in 
    unusually high backpressure readings with the CMX installed. With the 
    measurement conducted properly, exhaust backpressure was 3.2'' Hg., 
    which is below the recommended maximum backpressure for those engines. 
    Therefore, EPA does not believe that DDC's comments with respect to 
    measured in-use backpressure are convincing.
        EPA does not dispute that a catalytic muffler, in general, may 
    increase the engine exhaust backpressure compared to a standard noise 
    muffler. In fact, when the ``secondary'' ETX certification test was 
    conducted, EPA requested a backpressure comparison between a standard 
    muffler and the CMX-5. EPA selected the standard muffler, and Engelhard 
    measured the incremental difference between the muffler and the CMX-5 
    at rated speed and full load. The test revealed a 0.6 inches Hg. 
    difference in backpressure (2.0 inches Hg. with the muffler installed 
    versus 2.6 inches Hg. with the CMX-5 installed). The previously-
    certified CMX has been in service for over a year, and EPA has not 
    become aware of any problems relating to or resulting from increased 
    backpressure. During a December 17, 1996 conversation, representatives 
    of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Agency (WMATA) stated they 
    have not seen any discernable difference in backpressure or fuel 
    economy associated with use of Engelhard's previously certified CMX 
    catalyst. In a December 2, 1996 letter to EPA, Engelhard provided data 
    demonstrating that the backpressure resulting from the CMX-5 unit is 
    equal to, or lower than, the backpressure resulting from the certified 
    CMX over a wide range of exhaust flow rates. Finally, DDC has provided 
    no explanation of the difference, in terms of susceptibility to 
    backpressure impacts, between the engines for which Service Information 
    Bulletin 7-D-95 was intended, and those which are covered by this, and 
    other, retrofit certifications utilizing catalytic mufflers.
        Any future information provided by interested parties regarding the 
    impacts of certified equipment on exhaust backpressure would be taken 
    under consideration. EPA appreciates that there may room for 
    improvement in maintenance procedures of equipment certified under this 
    program. Such concerns, in general, can also occur with procedures 
    relating to new engines. EPA encourages all equipment certifiers to 
    issue revised check procedures when appropriate. If Engelhard 
    determines that another check is appropriate, or if EPA becomes aware 
    that backpressure is exceeding manufacturer limits on in-use buses, 
    then Engelhard should revise such procedures. Pursuant to 40 CFR 
    Section 85.1413, EPA has authority to decertify equipment that does not 
    comply with the requirements of the regulations.
    
    d. Supply Options
    
        As originally proposed in an addendum dated March 25, 1996, three 
    supply options would be available at Engelhard's discretion. Under 
    proposed option 1, Engelhard would supply all components of the kit 
    (GPX coated parts, CMX-5 converter muffler and all new and rebuilt 
    parts specified in Attachment 1 of the notification of intent to 
    certify) to the transit operator. Under option 2, Engelhard would 
    supply the GPX coated components (exhaust manifolds, turbocharger Y-
    pipes, cylinder kits, and cylinder heads) and the CMX-5 converter 
    muffler. The other engine components (fuel injectors, camshafts, air 
    inlet hose, blower, blower drive gear, blower bypass valve, 
    turbocharger, turbocharger Y-pipe, exhaust manifolds, and gasket kit) 
    would be purchased separately or supplied separately as long as such 
    parts were Engelhard OEM specified components or their equivalent. 
    Under option 3, Engelhard would provide the GPX coated parts described 
    in option 2 above, as well as the CMX-5 converter muffler, and the new 
    engine parts listed in Attachment 1 of the notification of intent to 
    certify (gasket kit, cylinder kits, air inlet hose, and blower bypass 
    valve). The remanufactured parts required to complete the kit (fuel 
    injectors, camshafts, blower, blower drive gear, turbocharger, exhaust 
    manifolds, and turbocharger Y-pipe) would be rebuilt in-house by the 
    transit operator if the transit operator was deemed an ``Engelhard 
    Certified Remanufacturer''. To obtain this status, transit operators or 
    third parties would be required to undergo training from Engelhard, and 
    be certified by Engelhard as capable of remanufacturing components 
    within required tolerances. In addition, transit operators would be 
    required to maintain records to demonstrate continued ability to meet 
    these requirements.
        With regard to option 2 proposed by Engelhard, DDC commented that 
    allowing the use of ``equivalent'' parts is not appropriate. DDC, as 
    the original engine manufacturer to which this applies, has developed 
    products over many years which encompass a myriad of subtle design 
    features intended to ensure proper engine function, performance, and 
    durability. DDC does not make it's specifications publicly available, 
    and therefore, believes Engelhard is not qualified to determine 
    ``equivalency'' of parts. DDC notes that the certification tests 
    conducted by Engelhard utilized DDC engine parts. DDC believes that 
    additional tests on specific non-OE parts should be
    
    [[Page 12173]]
    
    required if these parts are eligible for use in this kit.
        DDC's comments regarding supply option 3 are similar to those 
    described above. DDC does not believe that Engelhard can provide 
    transit operators with the appropriate specifications, tolerances, and 
    quality control procedures to which a transit operator must rebuild in 
    order to become a Certified Engelhard Remanufactured. Finally, DDC 
    comments that each supply option proposed by Engelhard should be 
    evaluated separately for it's impact on life cycle cost.
        JMI provided substantial comments regarding the proposed supply 
    options. Regarding option 1, JMI commented that Engelhard should be 
    required to disclose the allowable sources and specification of 
    ``equivalent'' parts. JMI comments that coatings for engine parts will 
    be provided by Engelhard's wholly owned technology division. JMI 
    believes that EPA must account for the possibility of interrupted 
    availability of coated components resulting from such interruptions as 
    union problems, divesture, natural disaster, etc.
        Regarding option 2, JMI commented that it is beyond Engelhard's 
    legal authority to create a qualified vendor list on behalf of a public 
    transit agency, and that doing so would create a conflict of interest. 
    KCTA mirrored this concern stating that the various supply options 
    allow Engelhard to dictate parts choice of transit operators. In 
    addition, JMI believes that allowing Engelhard discretion to choose 
    which supply options will be made available represents a restraint of 
    trade.
        Lastly, JMI comments that Engelhard's proposed supply options will 
    result in labor problems for transit operators who may be forced to 
    eliminate or close their repair operations.
        EPA, in general, shares many of the concerns noted by commenters 
    regarding supply of the ETX kit. EPA believes that Engelhard, in 
    proposing a flexible kit distribution plan, attempts to avoid many of 
    the issues raised by commenters. However, EPA must be assured that any 
    increase in flexibility does not undermine emissions reductions 
    expected from certification of equipment. In order to resolve the 
    extensive comments surrounding the proposed supply options, significant 
    follow-up activity was pursued by EPA, as described below.
        EPA fundamentally agrees with DDC that certification should be 
    limited to that equipment which has been demonstrated to achieve the 
    claimed certification level. In this case, Engelhard conducted all 
    testing of the ETX kit using DDC engine parts in conjunction with the 
    Engelhard catalytic converter and coatings. Engelhard provided no 
    demonstration or other assurances, other than it's required commitment 
    to honor the urban bus warranties, that ``equivalent'' engine parts 
    would result in PM emissions of 0.10 g/bhp-hr or less. EPA does not 
    dispute the possibility that certain non-DDC parts may provide 
    equivalent function, performance, and/or emissions characteristics as 
    the DDC parts used in Engelhard's certification testing. However, none 
    of these parts were tested, nor was any engineering argument made by 
    Engelhard to indicate equivalent performance. In the absence of 
    emissions data or technical argument relating to the characteristics or 
    design features of OEM and non-OEM parts that affect emissions 
    performance, EPA has no basis for certification of the Engelhard 
    equipment when an engine is rebuilt using parts other than those which 
    Engelhard has demonstrated will achieve the stated emissions level.
        EPA also agrees with JMI that, at a minimum, identification of 
    allowable equivalent parts and the means by which this equivalency was 
    determined is required in order to determine if such parts are 
    potentially capable of achieving the claimed reductions.
        In an August 23, 1996 letter, EPA requested that Engelhard provide 
    a listing of specific brands and part numbers which Engelhard 
    determined to be ``equivalent'', and the means by which Engelhard 
    determined this equivalency. In addition, EPA requested clarification 
    as to what specifications Engelhard would provide a transit operator 
    who wished to become a Certified Engelhard Remanufacturer and continue 
    to rebuild engines in-house.
        In its September 4, 1996 response to EPA's request, Engelhard was 
    unable to identify specific brands or part numbers which it believed to 
    be ``equivalent'' to the DDC parts used in the certification testing. 
    Engelhard will supply only DDC parts for those parts supplied under 
    option 1. Under option 2, Engelhard specifies only DDC parts, which 
    fleets can obtain through normal supply channels rather than from 
    Engelhard, thus providing fleets with part sourcing flexibility while 
    maintaining reasonable assurance that the claimed PM level is achieved. 
    Therefore, under both option 1 and option 2, transit operators must use 
    the specified DDC parts in conjunction with the remaining ETX kit 
    components, as demonstrated by Engelhard to be capable of achieving the 
    0.10 g/bhp-hr PM level. The practical difference between these two 
    options is that under option 2 the fleet has flexibility to obtain DDC 
    parts through it's normal channels, while option 1 requires purchase of 
    all parts from Engelhard. Manufacturers of ``equivalent'' aftermarket 
    parts may choose to certify their parts for use in the ETX kit in a 
    separate proceeding subject to testing and certain warranty concerns.
        Regarding the option 3 Engelhard Certified Remanufacturer program, 
    EPA supports the notion of fleets maintaining the ability to 
    remanufacture and rebuild certain components in-house. Outside of the 
    clear requirement to technology demonstrated to reduce PM exhaust 
    emissions, the Urban Bus Retrofit/Rebuild Program was not intended to 
    significantly impact current fleet rebuilding practices. With regard to 
    the 25 percent PM reduction standard, transit operators currently have 
    flexibility to choose add-on reduction equipment, thus allowing 
    continued in-house rebuilding of engines and components. On the other 
    hand, if EPA were to certify a trigger of the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard 
    that did not allow for continued rebuild of components in-house, and if 
    this were the only equipment available to meet the 0.10 g/bhp-hr 
    standard, then certain transits would be required to cease rebuilding 
    these components or risk being in violation of program requirements.
        EPA believes it reasonable to allow in-house rebuild of certain 
    components by transit operators utilizing the ETX kit, under certain 
    conditions. First, in-house rebuilding is limited to camshafts, 
    blowers, and turbochargers. EPA believes that allowing rebuild of other 
    components, such as fuel injectors, cylinder liners and cylinder heads, 
    would raise substantial concerns whether the resulting engine could 
    meet the 0.10 g/bhp-hr standard because of their key role in oil and 
    fuel control of the engine. Allowing in-house rebuild of camshafts, 
    blowers and turbochargers introduces some uncertainty with respect to 
    the PM emissions performance of the resulting engine because of their 
    role in controlling combustion air flow within the engine. However, EPA 
    imposes the following measures to mitigate this uncertainty. First, 
    Engelhard must specify, and fleets must rebuild to, the relevant DDC 
    camshaft, blower and turbocharger part number utilized in the 
    certification test engine. Second, Engelhard will implement it's 
    Engelhard Certified Remanufacturer program for any and all fleets 
    affected by the Urban Bus Retrofit/Rebuild Program choosing to rebuild 
    these components in-house. This parts supply option necessitates that 
    participating fleets undergo periodic quality checks, performed by 
    Engelhard,
    
    [[Page 12174]]
    
    of components rebuilt in-house. Unsatisfactory performance would result 
    in the fleet losing, or not achieving, the status of Engelhard 
    Certified Remanufacturer, and subsequently losing the option to rebuild 
    these components in-house. Engelhard provides the defect and emissions 
    performance warranties required pursuant to 40 CFR 85.1409 for engines 
    using components rebuilt by Engelhard Certified Remanufacturers.
        EPA has been informed that the ability to continue some level of 
    in-house rebuilding is important to the needs of transit operators. The 
    Engelhard Certified Remanufacturer program, combined with the limited 
    set of components that can be rebuilt in-house, result in increased 
    flexibility for transit operators yet allow EPA to maintain reasonable 
    assurance concerning PM reduction.
        Regarding DDC's comment that each supply option be evaluated 
    separately for it's impact on life cycle costs, EPA believes this is 
    unnecessary. EPA has determined that supply option 1--the option in 
    which Engelhard supplies all necessary components of the kit--complies 
    with the life cycle cost requirements of the Urban Bus Retrofit/Rebuild 
    Program, as described below. At a minimum, this supply option must be 
    provided to any and all transit operators. Therefore, certification of 
    this supply option ``triggers'' the 0.10 g/bhp-hr standard. Use of the 
    other two supply options is strictly voluntary, and any cost savings or 
    added costs are accepted voluntarily by the fleet operator.
    
    f. Life Cycle Cost
    
        Section 1403(b)(1)(ii) describes those items which must be 
    considered when analyzing life cycle cost of equipment, including 
    equipment purchase price, incremental fuel cost/savings, installation 
    costs, maintenance costs, and other costs specific to fuel additives 
    and fuel conversions. Most commenters provided input on at least one 
    cost-sensitive topic area. Comments received are described below, and 
    are grouped by general topic area within the larger context of life 
    cycle costs.
    i. Maintenance Cost
        NY MTA, NJ Transit, and CT Transit each expressed concern that 
    Engelhard did not include any allowance in the life cycle cost analysis 
    for maintenance of the equipment. EPA believes that the engine upgrade 
    portion of this equipment requires no additional maintenance 
    incremental to that required on a standard rebuild. In addition, the 
    coated component portion of the kit cannot be serviced because the 
    coated parts are internal to the engine. Therefore, no additional 
    maintenance is expected related to the coated components. EPA believes 
    any concerns related to incremental maintenance would apply only to the 
    catalyst unit.
        Engelhard maintains that the CMX-5 catalyst unit is maintenance-
    free over the emissions performance warranty period of 150,000 miles, 
    and notes that the currently certified CMX has been in operation for 
    over a year. During this time neither Engelhard nor EPA has become 
    aware of any additional maintenance required to keep the unit 
    functional, when the engine is maintained in accordance with 
    instructions. Engelhard stated that several CMX catalysts which have 
    accumulated over 150,000 miles without maintenance have been inspected 
    and found to be functioning properly. EPA questioned Engelhard 
    regarding the prescribed catalyst cleaning procedure, and the need for 
    such a procedure if the unit is truly maintenance free. Engelhard 
    responded that an improperly operating or improperly tuned engine could 
    lead to clogging of the catalyst unit. To the extent this happens, 
    transit operators must have instructions for cleaning the unit. Routine 
    cleaning of the catalyst unit on properly tuned engines is not 
    required, and thus no life cycle cost is associated with this cleaning 
    procedure. Therefore, EPA has determined that no additional maintenance 
    costs, incremental to costs associated with a standard rebuild, are 
    associated with the use of this equipment.
    ii. Incremental Fuel Cost
        EPA received numerous comments regarding the fuel economy impact of 
    the ETX kit. DDC's testing of the ETX kit showed a brake-specific fuel 
    consumption (BSFC) ranging from 0.469 to 0.472 lbs./bhp-hr. DDC 
    believes that comparing these BSFC measurements with Engelhard's 
    original 1979 and supplementary 1986 baseline tests (0.421 and 0.442 
    lbs./bhp-hr) may not be appropriate given that DDC and Engelhard 
    testing were conducted at different laboratories which may use 
    different test procedures and equipment. However, DDC believes that 
    comparing it's BSFC data for the ETX kit to a 1979 6V92TA baseline 
    engine tested by DDC recently in its own retrofit certification program 
    (60 FR 51472, October 2, 1995) is valid. Comparison of the original ETX 
    certification test with DDC's baseline testing shows an average 2.2 
    percent fuel economy penalty for the ETX kit. In its November 11, 1996 
    and November 22, 1996 follow-up letters to EPA, DDC notes other 
    factors, such as blower drive ratio and catalyst backpressure, which 
    are consistent with increased fuel consumption with the ETX kit. 
    Considering these qualitative factors, combined with its test data, DDC 
    believes that a 2-4 percent fuel penalty is appropriate.
        JMI commented that a four percent fuel economy penalty, as 
    demonstrated by Engelhard's original certification and baseline test 
    data, should be used to assess the fuel economy impact of the ETX kit. 
    In addition, JMI referenced a report prepared for the National 
    Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for the U.S. Department of 
    Energy, which concludes that thermal barrier coatings on diesel engine 
    combustion components can result in up to a two percent fuel economy 
    penalty compared to baseline ``metal'' (i.e., non-coated) components. 
    EPA notes that the relevancy of this report to this particular 
    certification is unclear.
        Milwaukee County, Long Beach Transit, CT Transit, NJ Transit, and 
    NY MTA all commented regarding the fuel economy impacts associated with 
    the ETX kit. In general, these transits believe that the Federal 
    transient test procedure does not represent real-world urban bus 
    operation, and therefore, the actual fuel economy impact is unknown. 
    One commenter suggested that fuel economy impact be determined through 
    testing over the Advanced Design Bus Cycle chassis dynamometer test, 
    which the commenter believed to be more representative of urban bus 
    operation.
        Regarding the comments from transit operators, 40 CFR 
    85.1407(a)(3)(ii) states, in part, that certifiers must include in 
    their notification of intent to certify ``(t)he percent change in fuel 
    economy * * * based on testing performed over the heavy-duty engine 
    Federal test procedure or an approved alternative test procedure''. 
    Engelhard complied with this requirement by providing the percent 
    change in fuel economy resulting from use of this kit as measured over 
    the heavy-duty engine Federal test procedure described at 40 CFR Part 
    86 Subpart N. While test data generated using the Advanced Design Bus 
    Cycle could be useful to EPA when determining fuel economy impacts, it 
    is not required. In addition, in order to demonstrate compliance with 
    the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard, testing must be conducted using the 
    engine-based Federal test procedure. Requiring additional testing to 
    demonstrate fuel economy on a chassis-based test cycle would be an 
    expense of unknown benefit.
        Regarding DDC and JMI comments, the following describes the 
    available
    
    [[Page 12175]]
    
    data on the subject. Table D below summarizes the available transient 
    BSFC data for both baseline engines and engines with the ETX kit.
    
                                     Table D.--Available Baseline and ETX Test Data                                 
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                            BSFC1   
                   Test description                                      Test date                        (lbs./bhp-
                                                                                                             hr)    
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Engelhard's original 1979 baseline............  March 1, 1996......................................        0.421
    Engelhard's original ETX certification test...  January 26, 1996...................................        0.438
    Engelhard's supplementary 1986 baseline.......  October 4, 1996....................................        0.442
    Engelhard's supplementary ETX certification     September 27, 1996.................................        0.447
     test.                                                                                                          
    DDC's 1979 baseline...........................  NA.................................................        0.461
    DDC's ETX test average........................  June/July 1996.....................................        0.471
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Brake-specific fuel consumption measured in units of pounds per brake horsepower-hour.                          
    
        In it's original application for certification, Engelhard claimed 
    no fuel economy penalty associated with the ETX kit, even though 
    Engelhard's original certification data for the ETX configuration 
    indicate a 4 percent fuel economy penalty compared to a standard 1979 
    6V92TA MUI baseline rebuild.
        In a March 8, 1996 letter to EPA, Engelhard further explained its 
    rationale for the claim of no fuel economy impact, noting that the 
    cylinder liners (part number 8923348) used in the 1979 baseline rebuild 
    have larger inlet ports compared to those currently available for 
    rebuilding engines, thus improving volumetric efficiency of the engine. 
    Such an improvement in volumetric efficiency, Engelhard claims, would 
    lead to improved fuel economy compared to an engine with lower 
    volumetric efficiency. In addition, Engelhard claims that the 1979 
    liner used to rebuild the original baseline test engine allows more oil 
    into the combustion chamber, causing an increase in PM, but also an 
    improvement in fuel economy compared to cylinder kits with a smaller 
    inlet port. Engelhard provided data showing a PM oil fraction for the 
    1979 baseline test of 0.076 g/bhp-hr, compared to 0.046 g/bhp-hr for 
    the January 26, 1996 ETX certification test.
        In addition, Engelhard argues that the 4 percent demonstrated on 
    the original 1979 baseline is reasonably close to the plus/minus 3 
    percent variability of the fuel economy measurement. This is supported 
    by the supplemental baseline testing conducted on October 7, 1996 on an 
    engine rebuilt to a 1986 6V92TA MUI configuration. The fuel consumption 
    data for this test is shown in Table D above, and shows virtually no 
    fuel economy impact (about 1 percent) compared to the ETX 
    configuration.
        In its November 11, 1996 letter, DDC refutes Engelhard's claim that 
    the larger port in the 1979 configuration improves the fuel economy 
    relative to a smaller ported liner. DDC states that the liner port is 
    dimensioned such that the bottom of the port remains constant in the 
    liner, with the top of the port being higher in larger port sizes. In 
    DDC's opinion, port size has a relatively small impact on fuel economy 
    compared to factors such as engine exhaust backpressure and blower 
    drive ratio. In addition, DDC notes that the liner used in Engelhard's 
    original 1979 baseline test engine had 0.95 inch ports, which are still 
    readily available today. EPA recognizes that fuel economy may vary from 
    test to test depending on several factors including base engine design 
    and measurement technique. The statistical determination of the 
    variability of this combination would require additional testing and is 
    beyond the practical requirements of the Urban Bus Program. EPA, 
    therefore, makes the following decision on the impact of fuel economy 
    on life cycle costs based on the available data. EPA believes the most 
    reasonable approach, based on the available data, is to average the 
    fuel economy impacts demonstrated by Engelhard on its 1979 and 1986 
    rebuild configurations (about 1 percent and four percent, 
    respectively), resulting in a fuel economy penalty of about 2 percent. 
    This figure is consistent with that demonstrated by DDC (about 2 
    percent), and other qualitative statements made by JMI and DDC. Using 
    this 2 percent figure and the equations of Section 85.1403 of the 
    program regulations, EPA determines the fuel economy impact associated 
    with the ETX rebuild kit to be $563.36 (in 1992 dollars), or $635.64 
    (in October 1996 dollars).
    iii. Purchase Price (Cost of a Standard Rebuild)
        According to Section 85.1403(b)(1)(iii)of the program regulation, 
    the purchase price of equipment is defined as ``the price at which the 
    equipment *  *  * is offered to the operator'', and ``excludes *  *  * 
    costs *  *  * for a standard rebuild''. In Engelhard's original 
    notification of intent to certify, Engelhard proposed a purchase price 
    plus installation cost of $13,502, and a standard rebuild cost of 
    $5,562. Thus, the net incremental life cycle cost proposed by Engelhard 
    totaled $7,940 (in 1992 dollars). Engelhard's proposed standard rebuild 
    cost of $5,562 was based on the maximum purchase price guaranteed by 
    DDC in it's April 11, 1995 application for certification of the 6V92TA 
    MUI upgrade kit.
        DDC commented that Engelhard's proposed cost for a standard rebuild 
    of $5,562 includes approximately $97 for the blower bypass valve, which 
    is not always replaced during a standard rebuild. In addition, DDC 
    noted some apparent inconsistencies with respect to current year 
    dollars versus 1992 dollars. For example, Engelhard states in it's 
    application that all costs are in 1992 dollars, while the $5,562 cost 
    from DDC's April 11, 1995 application are in 1995 dollars.
        JMI commented that basing the cost of a standard rebuild on the 
    price DDC proposed for it's upgrade kit is not representative of the 
    cost of a standard rebuild. JMI stated that numerous fleets receive a 
    minimum 18 percent discount on DDC parts compared to the list price 
    upon which Engelhard's standard rebuild cost was based. Applying an 18 
    percent discount to the $5,562 OE list price cost, JMI claims a 
    standard rebuild cost of $4,561. In addition, JMI comments that fleets 
    typically can rebuild using non-OE parts at a savings of 40 percent 
    compared to OE list price. JMI states that this 40 percent discount 
    results in a standard rebuild cost of $3,337. JMI did not indicate a 
    cost associated with using a combination of non-OE parts and discounted 
    OE parts, nor did they indicate which of these two proposed standard 
    rebuild costs it considers more representative of the actual cost.
        In response to DDC comments, EPA notes that the blower bypass valve 
    is not
    
    [[Page 12176]]
    
    included in the cost of a standard rebuild since it is not always 
    replaced. Also, the cost analyses presented below are updated to 
    reflect current dollars.
        EPA announced the certification of the DDC MUI upgrade kit on the 
    basis of meeting life cycle cost requirements in a Federal Register 
    notice dated July 19, 1996 (61 FR 37734). In that July 19, 1996 notice, 
    EPA responded to comments relating to the cost of a standard 6V92TA MUI 
    rebuild, and determined that a ``weighted'' rebuild, which accounts for 
    use of OE, non-OE, and rebuilt parts is likely more representative of 
    typical fleet rebuilding practices than using only OE parts. That 
    weighted rebuild analysis resulted in a cost of $3,747.66 (in 1995 
    dollars), and was based on the best information available at the time. 
    Table E below provides a summary of that analysis, and is shown in 
    December 1995 dollars.
    
                     Table E.--Cost of a Weighted Rebuild Summarized From 61 FR 37734, July 19, 1996                
                                                     [1995 Dollars]                                                 
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       OE list                   OE list      Weighted              
                      Item in kit                        cost     Non-OE cost    less 18%   rebuild \1\    DDC Kit  
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Cylinder Kit...................................    $1,844.52    $1,139.94    $1,512.51    $1,391.05  ...........
    Gasket Kit.....................................       220.16       132.10       180.53       164.74  ...........
    Air Inlet Hose.................................        14.95         8.97        12.26        11.19  ...........
    Blower Bypass Valve............................        97.36         0.00         0.00         0.00  ...........
    Fuel Injectors.................................       444.96       266.98       364.87       332.96  ...........
    LB Camshaft....................................       581.84       349.10       477.11       435.38  ...........
    RB Camshaft....................................       581.84       349.10       477.11       435.38  ...........
    Blower Assembly................................       442.80       199.26         0.00       199.26  ...........
    Turbo Assembly.................................       783.00       352.35         0.00       352.35  ...........
    Heads Assembly.................................       944.84       425.18         0.00       425.18  ...........
                                                    ----------------------------------------------------------------
        Totals.....................................  ...........  ...........  ...........     3,747.48     5,561.92
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\ The weighting factors used to arrive at each individual weighted component cost are described in detail in  
      the Federal Register notice referenced above.                                                                 
    
        In letters dated October 8, 1996, and October 21, 1996, Engelhard 
    provided additional information to EPA in response to JMI's cost 
    comments on the ETX kit, and in response to the weighted rebuild cost 
    shown in Table E. As a result of contacting various fleets and parts 
    distributors, Engelhard states that several adjustments to EPA's 
    weighted cost approach are warranted.
        Engelhard states that the OE list prices for the various engine 
    components have risen significantly since the DDC approval. Engelhard 
    also states that JMI's assumption that fleets typically receive an 18 
    percent discount from OE list is incorrect. DDC provided current OE 
    list costs and suggested fleet costs of individual engine components. 
    Table F below represents an update of the weighted cost analysis 
    presented in the July 19, 1996 Federal Register, updated to reflect 
    current (October 1996) OE list and fleet prices reported by DDC.
    
                                        Table F.--Cost of a Weighted Rebuild \1\                                    
                                                 [October 1996 Dollars]                                             
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    OE list                   OE list      Weighted 
                             Item in kit                              cost     Non-OE cost    less 18%   rebuild \1\
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Cylinder Kit................................................    $1,967.34    $1,174.02    $1,691.40    $1,522.74
    Gasket Kit..................................................       234.82       140.89       201.27       181.59
    Air Inlet Hose..............................................        16.20         9.72        13.88        12.52
    Blower Bypass Valve.........................................       103.85         0.00         0.00         0.00
    Fuel Injectors..............................................       484.98       290.99       447.96       396.79
    LB Camshaft.................................................       738.80       443.28       633.25       571.32
    RB Camshaft.................................................       738.80       443.28       633.25       571.32
    Blower Assembly.............................................       488.01       219.60         0.00       219.60
    Turbo Assembly..............................................       801.00       360.45         0.00       360.45
    Heads Assembly..............................................     1,083.56       487.60         0.00       487.60
                                                                 ---------------------------------------------------
        Totals..................................................  ...........  ...........  ...........     4,323.93
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\ This table is intended to represent the weighted rebuild cost analysis from Table E above, update to reflect
      October 1996 dollars.                                                                                         
    
        In addition to updating EPA's previous cost analysis to reflect 
    current prices, Engelhard identified several cost areas of the previous 
    weighted cost analysis it felt should be modified. First, Engelhard 
    states that typical non-OE parts cost 25 percent less than the OE part, 
    compared to the 40 percent assumed in the weighted rebuild analysis of 
    the July 19, 1996 Federal Register. Engelhard also notes that some 
    aftermarket parts actually cost more than the OE part. Engelhard 
    contacted DDC, two parts distributors, and various transits to obtain 
    this information. JMI, on the other hand, contacted only one parts 
    distributor to form the basis of it's comments. EPA believes that 
    Engelhard's estimation of non-OE part cost differential is more 
    consistent with information in a study conducted for the California Air 
    Resources Board on heavy-duty diesel rebuilding.2 The authors of 
    the study contacted four parts distributors and found that aftermarket 
    parts are generally less expensive than
    
    [[Page 12177]]
    
    OE parts. Comparing the cost differential of a limited number of parts, 
    the aftermarket parts cost about 10 to 20 percent less than OE parts. 
    Based on this information, and the sources contacted for that 
    information, EPA believes that the 25 percent cost difference noted by 
    Engelhard is likely more representative than the 40 percent difference 
    claimed by JMI.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \2\``Survey of Heavy-Duty Engine Rebuilding, Reconditioning, and 
    Remanufacturing Practices'', August 1987, CARB Contract #A4-152-32, 
    Prepared by Sierra Research, Inc.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Second, Engelhard states that the weighted cost approach should be 
    adjusted to reflect an additional cost to transit operators who rebuild 
    in-house, because parts are occasionally unrebuildable due to 
    catastrophic failure. Engelhard stated that 10 percent of turbochargers 
    and blowers are not rebuildable, and that 50 percent of cylinder heads 
    are not rebuildable. This information is consistent with EPA's current 
    understanding based on discussions with DDC. When parts are 
    unrebuildable, a transit operator would typically purchase a new 
    component at fleet cost. The nominal cost of these components assumes 
    the exchange of a rebuildable core. If the core is not rebuildable, 
    then the operator pays a core charge plus the nominal cost of the 
    component. The sum of the component fleet price plus the core charge 
    represent additional costs to fleets that rebuild in-house, due to 
    unrebuildable parts. When weighted based on the frequency at which the 
    part is unrebuildable, it yields an additional cost on a per components 
    basis. EPA's weighted rebuild from the July 19, 1996 Federal Register 
    assumes in-house rebuild of three components: the turbocharger, the 
    blower, and the heads. Therefore, Table G below summarizes estimates of 
    the additional costs related to the in-house rebuild of these parts.
    
                                         Table G.--Impact of Unrebuildable Parts                                    
                                                     [1996 Dollars]                                                 
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                             Added Cost   Actual in-
                                          OE fleet     In-house     Percent                  (OE fleet      house   
                   Item                    price       rebuild      damaged    Core charge    price +      rebuild  
                                                         cost                                  core)         Cost   
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(damaged)--------------
    Blower............................      $450.73      $219.60           10      $466.00       $91.67      $311.28
    Turbo.............................       739.81       360.45           10       300.00       103.98       464.43
    Heads.............................     1,000.78       487.60           50       425.00       712.89     1,200.49
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Finally, Engelhard states that OE parts carry a 100,000 mile 
    warranty, while transit remanufactured parts and non-OE parts carry 
    less, if any, warranty. Engelhard believes the cost implications of the 
    warranty coverage should be included in the analysis with respect to 
    use of non-OE and transit remanufactured parts, and provides 
    discussion.
        EPA does not dispute that some additional cost might be associated 
    with different warranties provided by different part manufacturers. 
    However, the cost impacts associated with warranties cannot be 
    adequately quantified based on the available information. EPA believes 
    that any additional cost would be related to repairs necessary for non-
    OE parts failing beyond the warranty for the non-OE part, but within 
    the warranty period required for equipment certified under this 
    program. No information has been provided on this subject, but the 
    impact of this analysis on life cycles costs is expected to be minimal.
        In summary, EPA is making the following three adjustments to its 
    analysis of the cost of a weighted rebuild described in the July 19, 
    1996 Federal Register. First, all costs are updated to reflect October 
    1996 dollars (this singular revision is shown in Table F). Second, the 
    weighted rebuild is modified to reflect non-OE parts cost of 25 percent 
    less than OE cost, rather than 40 percent. Finally, the costs of 
    unrebuildable parts cores are reflected in the costs of these three 
    components, as discussed previously, for fleets rebuilding parts in-
    house. Table H shows the cost of a weighted rebuild including the three 
    aforementioned adjustments.
    
        Table H.--Cost of a Weighted Rebuild (Reflecting Impact of Unrebuidable Parts and 25 Percent Non-OE Parts   
                                                        Discount)                                                   
                                                     [1996 Dollars]                                                 
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    OE list                   OE fleet     Weighted 
                             Item in kit                              cost     Non-OE Cost     price       rebuild  
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Cylinder Kit................................................    $1,967.34    $1,174.02    $1,691.40    $1,522.74
    Gasket Kit..................................................       234.82       176.12       201.27       193.07
    Air Inlet Hose..............................................        16.20        12.15        13.88        13.32
    Blower Bypass Valve.........................................       103.85         0.00         0.00         0.00
    Fuel Injectors..............................................       484.98       363.74       447.96       420.50
    LB Camshaft.................................................       738.80       554.10       633.25       607.45
    RB Camshaft.................................................       738.80       554.10       633.25       607.45
    Blower Assembly.............................................       488.01       311.28         0.00       311.28
    Turbo Assembly..............................................       801.00       464.43         0.00       464.43
    Heads Assembly..............................................     1,083.56     1,200.49         0.00     1,200.49
                                                                 ---------------------------------------------------
        Totals..................................................  ...........  ...........  ...........     5,340.72
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        EPA believes that, for the purposes of determining purchase price 
    for the Engelhard ETX kit, the cost of a standard rebuild for a DDC 
    6V92TA MUI engine is best approximated by the weighted rebuild costs 
    shown in Table H. EPA uses the $5,340.72 cost (in 1996 dollars) as the 
    cost of a standard rebuild to determine the life cycle cost of this 
    equipment.
    
    [[Page 12178]]
    
    iv. Catalyst Installation
        As defined in 40 CFR 85.1403 (b)(1)(ii)(B), the installation cost 
    of certified equipment is ``the labor cost of installing the equipment 
    on an urban bus engine, incremental to a standard rebuild, based on a 
    labor rate of $35 per hour'' (in 1992 dollars). Engelhard states the 
    CMX-5 catalyst unit requires a maximum time of six hours to install on 
    an urban bus engine, or $210 (in 1992 dollars). The urban bus engines 
    for which this equipment is intended were not originally equipped with 
    catalytic convertors. Therefore, the muffler unit must be removed from 
    the engine, and the CMX-5 unit installed in its place. As a result, the 
    $210 is incremental to the cost of a standard rebuild.
    v. Life Cycle Cost Calculation
        In a December 16, 1996 letter to EPA, Engelhard revised the price 
    it will charge transit operators for the ETX kit. The maximum purchase 
    price for the ETX kit purchased wholly from Engelhard (the supply 
    option upon which EPA is basing its determination of compliance with 
    the life cycle cost requirements) is stated to be $13,425 (in October 
    1996 dollars). This cost includes all components of the ETX kit, 
    including the coated cylinder heads and piston kits, the CMX-5 
    converter muffler, and the turbocharger, blower, blower drive gear, 
    blower bypass valve, camshafts, fuel injectors, air inlet hose, and 
    gasket kit.
        Based on this maximum purchase price, EPA determines that the ETX 
    kit complies with the $7940 (in 1992 dollars) life cycle cost 
    requirement of section 85.1403(b) for equipment meeting the 0.10 g/bhp-
    hr PM standard. A summary of life cycle costs is shown in Table I 
    below.
    
                       Table I.--Life Cycle Cost Analysis                   
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Cost in 1996    Cost in 1992 
                    Cost item                     dollars         dollars   
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Maximum ETX Kit Purchase Price..........     $13,425.00      $11,898.47 
    2% Fuel Economy Penalty.................         635.64          563.36 
    Catalyst Installation (6 hours).........         236.94          210.00 
    Cost of Standard Rebuild................      (5,340.72)      (4,733.44)
                                             -------------------------------
        Total Life Cycle Cost...............       8,956.83        7,938.37 
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    g. California Engines
    
        DDC commented that Engelhard's request for certification of the ETX 
    system on California engines is unsupported by any data. DDC notes that 
    the NOX standard for California engines for 1984 and later model 
    years is more stringent than the corresponding federal NOX 
    standard. While Engelhard's test engine NOX level of 10.5 g/bhp-hr 
    (secondary ETX certification test) complies with the 1989 and earlier 
    federal NOX standard, it exceeds the California standards for 
    these same model years. DDC comments that while the fuel injector part 
    number listed in the NIC for the 277 HP and 253 HP California versions 
    of the ETX kit have a slight internal timing retard which would tend to 
    reduce NOX, these same injectors would also tend to increase PM. 
    DDC also comments that the NOX reductions resulting from the 
    slight internal timing retard would not be sufficient to ensure that 
    California engines remained below applicable California NOX 
    standards. DDC believes the certification of the ETX kit for California 
    engines must be predicated on evidence which shows such engines comply 
    with the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard and comply with applicable 
    California NOX standards.
        EPA agrees with DDC and determines that insufficient data have been 
    provided to justify certification of the ETX kit for use on engines 
    originally certified as meeting California emissions standards. Section 
    85.1406(a)(1) of the program regulations state, in part, that the 
    equipment certifier must demonstrate that the equipment ``will not 
    cause the urban bus engine to fail to meet any applicable Federal 
    emission requirements set for that engine''.
        However, a unique situation exists with respect to engines 
    originally certified as meeting California standards. The DDC 6V92TA 
    MUI engines have, since the 1977 model year, been certified to a more 
    stringent NOX standard in California. EPA has granted California 
    several waivers of federal preemption in order to allow these more 
    stringent standards. Engelhard must provide emission data to 
    demonstrate that California engines, when retrofit with the ETX kit, 
    will not exceed applicable California standards. Engelhard has provided 
    no such data. In fact, the data which were presented indicate that 
    engines with the ETX kit installed will substantially exceed the 
    California NOX standard. EPA agrees with DDC that if modifications 
    were made to the ETX kit or its components to reduce NOX from the 
    level demonstrated by Engelhard's test engine, to the levels required 
    to comply with California standards, then, in the absence of additional 
    PM data, it is unclear whether the equipment would comply with the 0.10 
    g/bhp-hr standard. This is because, generally speaking, engine design 
    measures taken to reduce NOX emissions would likely increase PM 
    emissions. Therefore, EPA is not certifying this equipment for use in 
    California at this time, and today's Federal Register notice does not 
    trigger the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard of the urban bus retrofit program 
    for engines originally certified as meeting California emissions 
    standards.
        Engelhard may submit an additional notification of intent to 
    certify the ETX kit for use on engines certified as meeting California 
    emissions standards. EPA would make the notification available for a 
    45-day public review and comment period. After resolution of comments 
    and concerns, EPA would render a certification decision. In addition, 
    EPA understands the California Air Resources Board's (ARB's) view that 
    equipment certified under the urban bus program, to be used in 
    California, must be provided with an executive order exempting it from 
    the anti-tampering prohibitions of that State.
    
    h. Other Comments
    
        In its November 22, 1996 letter, DDC stated its concern that the 
    description of the ETX kit has changed substantially since the May 6, 
    1996 Federal Register notice seeking public comment. Specifically, DDC 
    states that the removal of coated exhaust parts and the changing of 
    fuel injector height and throttle delay settings should have prompted 
    another opportunity for public comment.
        EPA notes that only two substantive changes have been made to the 
    ETX since the initial notification of intent to certify. Removal of 
    coated exhaust parts by Engelhard was done in response to
    
    [[Page 12179]]
    
    public comments, including DDC's. Concerns were expressed by both the 
    public and EPA about the ability to control the coating process on such 
    parts considering the part-to-part variability in surface area, shape, 
    etc. Engelhard acknowledged that the coated exhaust parts were 
    originally included in the ETX kit to provide an extra compliance 
    margin relative to the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard, but were not 
    absolutely necessary to comply. Since these parts were not considered 
    ``essential'' by Engelhard to comply with the standard, they were 
    removed from the kit. Engelhard believes that the coating on the piston 
    crowns and combustion chambers is necessary to provide an adequate 
    compliance margin. Any additional public comment on this matter would 
    be moot since the coated exhaust components are no longer present in 
    the kit.
        The second change to the ETX kit involved the fuel injector height 
    and throttle delay settings. Engelhard originally proposed settings of 
    1.460 inches and 0.594 inches, respectively (the OEM settings for most 
    engines covered by this application are 1.466 inches and 0.636 inches, 
    respectively). The reason Engelhard modified the OEM settings in its 
    original application was to ensure compliance with FTP cycle 
    performance statistics, rather than for any specific engine or 
    emissions related performance reasons. (In fact, the settings 
    originally proposed by Engelhard would tend to have a negative impact 
    on PM emissions.) When Engelhard conducted supplemental testing 
    requested by EPA to address fuel economy and emissions issues, 
    Engelhard was able to comply with FTP cycle statistics using the OEM 
    settings of 0.636 inches and 1.466 inches. While returning these 
    settings to the OEM specifications is a change, EPA believes it does 
    not warrant reopening the comment period because the change is minor 
    and directionally would tend to reduce PM emissions.
        JMI and DART expressed concern about possible toxic emissions 
    related to the ETX kit. DART questions whether, during assembly of the 
    engine, coating material may become ``airborne'', resulting in a 
    potential health concern. In addition, DART and JMI question whether 
    the combustion process may result in undesirable products. JMI 
    postulates that free heavy metals, such as cobalt, molybdenum, nickel, 
    chromium, boron, silicon, and vanadium, may be released if the coating 
    becomes cracked or spalled. Such free metals, JMI states, when exposed 
    to sulfur from diesel fuel at high temperatures and pressures (2200 
    degrees Fahrenheit, and 5 to 8 atmospheres), could react to form ``a 
    variety of toxic compounds''. In addition, JMI states this could result 
    in deactivation of the catalyst unit located in the exhaust stream.
        EPA does not believe the conditions upon which JMI's (and DART's) 
    concern is based will be present in engines using the ETX kit. 
    Primarily, JMI's concern is based on an assumption that the GPX-5m 
    coating is not durable, and thus will spall and crack, allowing free 
    metals to react with sulfur. As described elsewhere in today's notice, 
    durability testing is not required under this program. However, as 
    discussed above, the available data does not indicate that the GPX-5m 
    coating is not durable. In addition, Engelhard contends that any metals 
    used in the GPX-5m coating are applied to surfaces in such manner that 
    machining is required for removal.
        DDC comments that it should not be responsible for providing 
    emission defect or performance warranties under the urban bus retrofit/
    rebuild program for equipment certified by Engelhard, even though DDC 
    parts are required to be used.
        Engelhard, as the equipment certifier, must provide all warranties 
    required by the urban bus retrofit/rebuild regulation. Engelhard is 
    aware of its responsibility to provide such warranties, including cases 
    where transit operators obtain DDC parts from Engelhard or through 
    their normal supply channels under the approved supply options.
    
    III. Certification Approval
    
        The Agency has reviewed this notification, along with comments 
    received from interested parties, and finds the equipment described in 
    this notification of intent to certify:
        (1) Complies with a particulate matter emissions standard of 0.10 
    g/bhp-hr, without causing the applicable engine families to exceed 
    other exhaust emission standards;
        (2) Will not cause an unreasonable risk to the public health, 
    welfare or safety;
        (3) Will not result in any additional range of parameter 
    adjustability; and
        (4) Meets other requirements necessary for certification under the 
    Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban 
    Buses (40 CFR Sections 85.1401 through 85.1415).
        The Agency hereby certifies this equipment for use in the Urban Bus 
    Retrofit/Rebuild Program as described below in Section IV.
    
    IV. Transit Operator Responsibilities
    
        Today's Federal Register notice announces certification of the 
    above-described Engelhard equipment, when properly applied, as meeting 
    the 0.10 g/bhp-hr particulate matter standard of the Urban Bus 
    Retrofit/Rebuild Program for urban buses originally certified as 
    meeting Federal emissions standards. Urban buses of the type described 
    in Table C of today's notice, which were originally certified as 
    meeting California emissions standards, are not covered the 
    certification announced today. Affected urban bus operators who choose 
    to comply with program 1 are required to use this, or other equipment 
    that is certified as meeting the 0.10 g/bhp-hr particulate matter 
    standard, for any engines listed in Table C which are rebuilt or 
    replaced on or after September 15, 1997. The 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard 
    is not triggered for urban buses originally certified as meeting 
    California emission standards. Therefore, operators of such urban 
    buses, who choose to comply with program 1, are not required to use 
    such equipment until the 0.10 g/bhp-hr PM standard has been triggered 
    for such engines.
        Urban bus operators who choose to comply with program 2 may use the 
    certified Engelhard equipment immediately, and those who use this 
    equipment may claim the respective particulate matter certification 
    level from Table C when calculating their Fleet Level Attained (FLA). 
    Again, because this equipment is not certified as meeting the 0.10 g/
    bhp-hr PM standard for engines originally certified as meeting 
    California emission standards, operators of such urban buses, who 
    choose to comply with program 2, may not use this equipment to meet 
    program requirements. In addition, such operators, when calculating 
    their FLA, may not claim the PM levels shown in Table C because the 
    program requires use of certified equipment.
        As stated in the program regulations (40 CFR 85.1401 through 
    85.1415), operators should maintain records for each engine in their 
    fleet to demonstrate that they are in compliance with the requirements 
    of the Urban Bus Retrofit/Rebuild Program beginning on January 1, 1995. 
    These records include purchase records, receipts, and part numbers for 
    the parts and components used in the rebuilding of urban bus engines. 
    Urban bus operators using supply options 2 and 3, as described 
    previously in today's Federal Register notice, must be aware of their 
    responsibility for maintenance of records pursuant to 40 CFR 85.1403 
    through 85.1404, because they do not purchase the complete ETX kit from 
    Engelhard. Urban bus operators using supply option 2 or 3 must be able 
    demonstrate that all parts used in the
    
    [[Page 12180]]
    
    rebuilding of engines are in compliance with program requirements. In 
    other words, such urban bus operators must be able demonstrate that all 
    components of the kit certified in today's Federal Register notice are 
    installed on applicable engines.
    
        Dated: March 7, 1997.
    Mary D. Nichols,
    Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation.
    [FR Doc. 97-6505 Filed 3-13-97; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 6560-50-P
    
    
    

Document Information

Effective Date:
3/14/1997
Published:
03/14/1997
Department:
Environmental Protection Agency
Entry Type:
Notice
Action:
Notice of agency approval of an application for equipment certification.
Document Number:
97-6505
Dates:
The effective date of certification is March 14, 1997.
Pages:
12166-12180 (15 pages)
Docket Numbers:
FRL-5710-3
PDF File:
97-6505.pdf
Supporting Documents:
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Certification of Equipment; Notice of EPA certification of equipment provided by Turbodyne Systems, Inc.
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Approval of an Application for Certification of Equipment
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Approval of a Certification of Equipment
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Certification of Equipment [A-93-42-XXI-A-20]
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Public Review of a Notification of Intent To Certify Equipment
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Public Review of a Notification of Intent To Certify Equipment [A-93-42-XXI-A-5]
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Public Review of a Notification of Intent To Certify Equipment
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Approval of an Application for Certification of Equipment
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Certification of Equipment [A-93-42-XV-A-47]
» Retrofit/Rebuild Requirements for 1993 and Earlier Model Year Urban Buses; Public Review of a Notification of Intent To Certify Equipment