Hi Kerry,
I think that it is possible as suggested that your anvil may be caulked in place, my Beaudry hammer also has a large clearance between the anvil and hammers frame. I have oak wedges driven into mine and I feel it helps absorb some of the shock. I think I would try maybe power washing or compressed air to blow out the area between hammer frame and anvil just to get a clear look in there, it could be packed with forging scale and such. I have the oblong holes in the frame for bolting the anvil base down, and with that it aligns the dies.
If you discover some type of caulking, a propane weed burner would probably loosen it right up, just my 02cents worth....
I like your hammer it looks great and I know you will really like it when its up and running. My hammer is only 5 numbers off from yours.
Thank you for taking your time posting the great photos and the information, this is a great site.
Take Care,
Sincerely
Chris H.
