The COW system may be operated with characteristics that do not meet those recorded under § 157.150(b) only if:
(a) The tank vessel passes the inspections under § 157.140 using the changed characteristics;
(b) The changed characteristics used to pass the inspections under § 157.140 are recorded in the Crude Oil Washing Operations and Equipment Manual approved under § 157.112; and
(c) The Coast Guard issues to the tank vessel an amending letter stating that the tank vessel complies with this subpart with these characteristics.