Sorry about that. 494 will be getting new repro builder's plates to match those from the 1939 restoration. Manchester plates from 1892 were oval, more or less like a Juniata Pennsy plate. I have two questions. First, the best way to create a radius so that the plate conforms to the curvature of the smokebox. Maybe this wasn't even an issue in those days. Second, the best way to affix the plates. Last time around it appears that large stove bolts threaded into the smokebox were used. I think bronze or steel rivets right through the smokebox would be better. Bolts would be too easy for the next generation of thieves. How have you done these?

wrj494@aol.com

Make your pattern so that it is cast curved to fit the smokebox. If you bolt it on, just weld the nuts to the bolts inside the smokebox. You can always fire wrench it back off again from the inside if you need to remove it.

Dave

irondave@bellsouth.net