M5 Linkert advice needed

[MMasa]

I'm working on a 39 knucklehead and need to build some consensus regarding the correct attributes of a circa 1939 M5 Linkert.
I've read conflicting things regarding the cast 4 vs stamped 4 on the side as well as when the carbs went from 4 line to 3 line. Finally the finish of the carb. Nickel? Cadmium? Painted?
According to Palmers 2nd edition, ALL pre-1940 M5's are 4 line, nickel plated and have the 4 stamped into the side.
Into the wilderness declares that only early/mid 1936-1937 M5's had the stamped 4 and that 1938-1939 M5's had the cast 4.
I have been told that only 1936-37 carbs were nickel plated and that it then went to cadmium.
And finally, I have seen a 3 line M5 but it also has a cast 4. Is this a doctored M55?
Thanks for your opinions.
Mark

[T. Cotten]

Mark!

The bodies were dull "Watts" nickel; By '39, small hardware was a mix of nickel and cad.

I have never encountered one with a cast 4.

....Cotten

[36 knuck man]

Mark, I just posted a reply with picture on cai, thanks, Larry

[T. Cotten]

Golly Larry,

I would like to see the pic too!

....Cotten

[BigLakeBob]

You can see it over there without logging in.

Golly Larry,

I would like to see the pic too!

....Cotten

[Steve Slocombe]

The M5 carb is now being reproduced in Europe and maybe they have the cast 4.

[36 knuck man]

Here ya go Cotton

[koanes]

My M5f, original to my 39 EL former CHP motorcycle has cast in #4, with # 3 stamped in under low speed needle holder. No sign of nickel. I also have nickel plated M5 with the 4 stamped into a square. The # 2 is stamped in under needle holder.

[T. Cotten]

Thanks Larry!

(After the way I was treated on that forum, I don't even want to give Buzz a cookie.)

Methinks that may be the wrong HS needle knob, and LS knob screw,.. but I've never been trusted with a two-bolt.

The plating is certainly modern.

....Cotten

[36 knuck man]

Thanks Cotten, I appreciate your info, Larry