Some questions:
There are a couple stampings that I'm wondering if they will help me to identify this specific forge. The weighted handle for the clinker breaker is stamped "10". The (twier?) is stamped 63 in large numbers, then 63 in small numbers above that as well as on the other side.
Also, what are all the holes for in the bottom of the forge? I know one pair of them holds down the ring around the fire pot. There are three in a triangle back on the blower side, and then two that are symmetrical in front of the fire pot. All are counter-sunk underneath for a machine screw. Nothing was attached to them when I took it apart, but there were screws/nuts in each of these holes (that had rotted nearly in half).
Finally, does this forge need to be clayed, and if so, how deep and what kind of clay? I've heard say that I can mix cat litter with water to make the clay.
The machinist just finished boring the gear housing and fabricating a brass bushing. Next week I'll reassemble the blower. The forge, (twier?), and other parts have been blasted and painted with 2000 degree paint. Tomorrow I am going to make new legs with casters.
I picked up a couple hoof nippers at an antique store for $5/$8. My first project will be to turn them into tongs. I still don't have an anvil. I've got a lead on a piece of track for $20. I might have to start there. I found a 105 pound Peter Wright locally for $250, but I can't afford it.
Hopefully I'll be firing up in a couple weeks!