Hi Mark,
What a great post! Thanks for sharing your work. What I see has some real merit on several levels. I work in a seismic zone and the separate base in our situation at the museum where I work would provide a great option for loading lead counterweight.
I will pass this on to the PACCIN list (see a description and how to join at the top of the front page) to request their input (they represent a high percentage of the most hardcore professionals in the community). Thanks a bunch for your post. I will revisit later with my own questions and comments.
Ashley McGrew - Chair of Publications