PRR grab irons - M1 and K4

Larry, I'm no expert but I don't think they had someone at the roundhouse in charge of making sure handrails were symmetrical and pipes were straight (unlike us).  There were no automatic tools, so everything was made by men and no two engines were totally identical.  After a few years on the road and several shoppings, I'm sure things were bent, twisted and replaced by other parts.

Bottom line - get some sleep.

I like your thought process, Dan!  Thanks for your input.

Larry

Unlike many other roads, the PRR standardized a large number of components, especially related to the smokebox fronts.  Major mods (like the modernized front end) were done during scheduled backshop maintenance cycles and there were PRR drawings  (available through the PRRT&HS archieve)  that specified the location of components and materials to be used.  I would expect the handrail posts would be installed symmetrically about the centerline unless there was an obstruction.  It is important to note that the PRR did not use smooth end handrail posts common to other railroads, but instead used distinctive clevis style posts that came in several standard lengths.  PSC offers very nice lost wax castin s for the PRR handrail posts. 

Thank you.  Do you think the front handrails on the 6755 pictured above look a bit off?  I do.

I don' see that in the picture - it looks to me that the locomotive is leaning slightly. Rather than guess pull out some of your Pennsy power books and see what the show.  Does the Lionel M1a/b have the correct style handrail posts?