Attached is a photo showing a minor crack from the edge of the flange to a smokebox bolt hole. Of more importance than this crack is how it happened. Notice the smokebox is pulling away from the saddle and presumably caused the crack. If the rear furnace bearer is not being kept clean and free to move, the boiler growth is impeded causing this crack. If not dealt with this will cause a lot more problems. This crack is incredibly minor so as to not even really worry about it itself. It is what it is a symptom for that matters. If you do not deal with root causes, repairs are of no value.
Best,
Stathi
Efstathios I. Pappas, MS, Phd ABD
General Manager California Western Railroad