That worked. This is the first model I have tried the pole and square tube idea. I think you can see that it is adequate, if not quite up to modern standards. This is a pewter model - my first attempt at assembling such a thing. Badly distorted when it came out of the mold, but it straightened with moderate pressure, and JB Weld seems to hold it permanently in place.
I can say I am pleased having it in my collection, but would not go out of my way for more pewter models - I am kind of a bronze age guy. I do have another pseudo "Erie-built" project coming up, but for right now the shop is sort of moving slowly.
I am delighted with Carey's "finds" and posts. Let's encourage him to do more!