Regarding one of George Epple's questions about spraying the plate,
I always go to the auto parts store and get paint mixed up to match the
plate color as close as possible.  As a general rule one or two shades
lighter to compensate for the effects of aging.

If you don't have a spray gun you can still find automotive quality paint
in spray cans in some well stocked automotive stores.  Don't skimp on
quality here.

I will clean the plate and then apply either red or black oxide primer.
The last thing you want to do is have the paint start peeling in a few
years.

Take it VERY easy if you have to do any sanding at all.  Piano plates
have some sort of thick pigment (primer?) on them, and if you sand through
it, it will make a depression that can be seen.  Then you have a problem.
If the original paint is in good shape, It is best to not sand it at all.

I will then use a black marker to highlight the raised letters.  I can
usually do a better job with a marker than black paint.  All the painted
designs, example (the Foster serial number) are replaced at this time.

Last I will spray a coat of clear.  Make sure the clear is the same brand
of paint as you used to paint the plate

I am not sure if this is the standard method of doing this.  I can only
say that the plate in my Foster upright looks great and has a mirror
shine.

Well I hope this helps.  I am off to the shop.  My Pianomation arrived
yesterday.  I have to cut slots in the keybed of my Foster (ouch) Without
weakening the keybed or throwing the thing out of regulation! Once this
is installed I can play it from the computer.

Andy Taylor
Missouri