Quote Originally Posted by Zundfolge View Post
Its called Planned Obsolescence.

One of his major projects was to do computer design studies and testing on the design of their heavy flatbed cars so design them to where they would fall apart at a specific mileage. The warranty ended 500 miles before this specific mileage point.
I retired from a major RR after 34 years of service. Although I had NEVER heard of that being done, I wouldn't doubt it too much - especially if it kept the cost of the new equipment way down.
Of course there is still a major safety issue involved if that really did occur. IMHO