I have recently obtained a very nice 1863 three band Shiloh rifle. It is a Farmingdale with a s/n in the 38X range.
The question concerns the gas seal plate. The plate has two countersunk screws that go through the plate into the breech block. This does not allow the gas seal to move forward to seat against the rear of the chamber. I have not yet shot the rifle, but it appears that there should be no screws holding the gas seal plate to the breech block. The screw installation appears to have been a factory installation as there is no signs of unfinished machining (no bright marks).
I can take a photo and link to Photo Bucket if anyone need to see this.
Thanks in advance.
Ken
NRA Life
Clarksville, SW PA