Serial Number Dies

[jmann652401]

Hi all,
I'm finishing up restoring a '43 OT Guide, Ser # 136774-18. It was in pretty poor condition and I had to replace both stems. To complete the work I'd like to imprint the original serial number onto the new stems. Can anyone direct me to a place where I can obtain (buy, rent or borrow) a set of number dies to match the Old Town digits.
Thanks
Joe

 

[Dan Miller]

Some years ago, Old Town was willing to stamp numbers on your stems for you, they probably still are. If you are near upstate NY, you can come by here, I have a set that matches the Old Town stamps well. Otherwise, keep your eye on Ebay, its the sort of thing that turns up regularly there...

Cheers,
Dan

 

[Dan Lindberg]

So what's the secret for stamping the numbers in a completed boat.

Seems like this should be done before assembly over something very solid, like a large vise or anvil.

Dan

 

[Dan Miller]

Nothing real secret about it, the number punches always win... i've done it both ways. You need three hands to do a loose stem. In the boat, just be sure it is well supported below the stamping zone. (I suppose my anvil would work for this too...just don't do it after a day at the forge )

 

[Dave Wermuth]

Or if you're in Michigan

then I have some that look the same. And it really is easy to do on a finished canoe.