Re: Bracket on K-27 Cylinder Heads

I do not have a copy of "... the mudhens book ...", but the item that my 1973 MR mudhen plans seem to match your description the best is the cylinder cock lever that is part of the cylinder cock linkage from the cab to the bottom of the cylinders..
This lever was attached between a lever in the cab (often foot operated) and the two drain cocks in the bottom of the cylinders. When standing, the steam in the cylinders will condense into water. In as much as water will not compress like steam will, a way for the water to get out of the cylinders when starting is a must. The drain cocks are opened by the engineer for the first few driver revolutions when starting the locomotive so the water in the cylinders can drain to the track. Without the drain cocks, the possibility exists of pushing off the cylinder covers - the water will find a way to get out.
I hope this helps.
Doug