Hey All!
Some people just have to tinker...
A nice fella named Roger Van Maren created the modifications for his No. 5 pictured below.
Roger displays obvious skill with machine tools but the threaded Allen head screws (studs in this case) used in place of the brass cap screws are off the shelf. Roger told me a touch of glue keeps each stud in place.
I like the two knurled set screws to secure the blades and fence. Finger tight is all you need.
Roger is in the process of modifying a fence to more suit his needs - hope to share that with you later.
kb