A set of general notes should be given on each sheet of details, specifying the kinds of material, the sizes of rivets, the diameters of rivet-holes before and after reaming, the manner in which all plates are to be finished, etc.

After each sheet is pencilled, it should be checked carefully to see that there are no errors thereon; then, after the tracing is finished, it must be checked in detail— if possible by some one who was not concerned in its preparation.

The following standard instructions of the author's to his office-assistants concerning the checking of drawings will indicate what such checking should accomplish and the essential thoroughness thereof:

First. Go over all drawings for the entire design and see that every detail of the structure is shown in a sufficient number of views to make clear to the manufacturers exactly what is intended by the designer.

Second. See that every detail has been dimensioned so that it can be readily laid out on the working drawings. See also that all sections of connection angles, fillers, etc., are given.

Third. See that proper descriptive notes are given wherever necessary to make clear the reasons for any special details.

Fourth. Examine each detail and see that every portion of it is strong enough to carry properly the greatest stress that can ever come upon it. Make sure that enough rivets have been used, and that they are indicated to be countersunk or flattened wherever necessary to provide proper clearance.

Fifth. In checking up the packing at the panel points, see that all members which are to be brought on to the pin are shown, and that a sufficient clearance has been figured for each. Make sure that all forked ends have the requisite strength, and that diaphragms between same have been used wherever necessary. Check up the bearing of each member on the pin, and make sure that plenty of rivets have been used to convey the stress from the extension-plates to the main