Does any one know where I can find a spring for a Mail Crane? The one at OERM is missing its upper spring. Also does any one use a wooden mail crane or know of any still around? If not does any one have plans for one? ThanksBill Olson

I have no idea what kind of springs go into a mail crane, but if you look in the yellow pages under "springs" you should find some small shops near you that can make just about any kind small spring you need. The ones I have dealt with have been accommodating and cheap, whether making vestibule trap springs or new leaves for Ford F-250's that have hauled 36-inch wheelsets. Just tell them what you want in terms of diameter, free length (unloaded), working length (when loaded) and what load it will have to carry and the rate at which it should deflect and they should be able to whip one up.

If you need to examine one, we have one at Campo - come out for a visit. We use it one weekend a year to snag the mail at the Campo Depot.Jim

"new leaves for Ford F-250's that have hauled 36-inch wheelsets" What a great word picture - sounds like the voice of experience.Thanks, Aarne!