Has anybody heard of this Wayne James guy who seems to be popular with guys who don't read the whole thread before posting? I'm told by many people that he can cast new plates based on most manufacturers designs.

dave

He can cast any plate, even if he doesn't already have the design "in stock." He did a neat Kalamzoo handcar plate for me, as well as other custom-designed plates. He basically hand carves each letter/number by hand in plastic and glues them to a plastic base.

That said, as mentioned previously, he does have a LOT of plate designs already done, and often only needs to change dates/serial numbers. This can save money.

Wayne will usually create the pattern for free, if it is anticipated that there will be a good number of copies sold.

Likely the shrinkage was less than the clearance designed into the holes. It normally shouldn't be a problem on smaller plates, but can be if the design is tight or fussy. Did you compare the actual length of the plates?

I have worked with Wayne James over the years and have provided him with detailed photos on builder's plates that he needed to make up as reproductions. I can provide photos for many plates as long as they are being used for a specific project. I am not interested in adding to all of the fake plates on ebay that are being offered out as originals. I have worked with a number of clients in this area and they have all been pleased with the work that Wayne James has done.

I talked to Wayne yesterday afternoon and it turns out I've seen some of his plates before, which are very nice. The plate we are looking into acquiring is a Baldwin "home plate", which he told me started use in 1946 or so, and the engine is 1947. Upon looking closely at a couple of photos, turns out that's what we need.

Thanks for the tool opinions as well.

I can do projects such as this, as well as general pattern making. Plenty of RR experience. I am strictly a "modern" guy with 3D CAD and rapid prototyping/3D printing for patterns or parts.

See some samples of my work here: http://adirondack.x10.mx/Welcome.html

Thanks!

Chris

Thanks Dennis I will compare them later this week and report back

The email listed for Wayne James is apparently not working or no longer active. I have tried it a couple of times and get a "no delivery" answer.

If any one has a newer one, I would appreciate it, or if not, I will call him direct.

E

Dennis,
I measured both the original builders plate and the spare replica one we had made, and they are exactly the same.

Thanks to all for the tips here. Much appreciated!