I swear I'm enthralled by everyone here. Thank-you's just seem innadiquate.
Upon last evening's revelation that the work can be done by myself, a lot of progress has actually been made. I used Gunk's on the hinge, all bolts and screws, and on the fore end lever. This morning I tested the fore end lever with just finger-strength. It released and I was able to remove the grip plate. She still will not break, but removing that portion has enabled me to directly apply Gunk's to the hinge and cocking hook. I'm hoping this will help in loosening it up.
The serial number is stamped again on the underside of the grip plate. It clearly reads 19698. My previous consern about the serial number can now be put to bed.
I have decided that only finger strength will be used in dismantling the gun. When it comes to the finer screws and plates, I'll be very ginger. I'm tempted to use my finer woodworking tools. I have plastic pry's and small plastic hammers I use to seperate dovetailing and hinges from antique furnature. But have no fear gentlepeople, I shall refrain.
My questions at this point are simple. Now that the grip plate is off, is there any better way of removing the barreles? Is there a good way or a bad way? I'm very seriously considering purchasing Brownell's Rust Release for the soaking of all metal parts, post dismantaling. Evidently this product is superb when removing rust from antiques with delicate scroll and filigry. Any experience with this?
Big thanks to you Harry for your gauge post. I'm sure once the barels are removed and the grade is evident we can put this gauge mystery to bed. I have learned a lot from your post. Jack, your pictures are inspiring! I will take some pictures of my recent progress and post them shortly. Perhaps I should start a new post in the Restoration portion of the forum?
Thanks guys, more pictures very soon.
Sean