Ted, The Pierce frame does have a port hole as I mentioned, and yes there is a slotted flange inside. I have tried to remove the canks by placing a flat punch in the hole to restrict the slot in the flange. I tried pushing one way and then the other and it would not budge. I am afraid to push to hard as the metal back then was not quite as refined as today. Also, I am guessing which direction to push or pull to free it. My guess is that it was a mechanism as you say but one is really blind to the actual assembly contained in the BB. It is a guessing game to determine not only the direction to turn but also if I am using the correct method from the onset. I have had the frame in a stand, restricted the flange and even put a pipe on the crank arm but really felt that I would either bend or break the crank if I pushed much further than I feel comfortable with. I have soaked the internals with oil and WD for well over a few years and still nothing. Any sugestions on the proper direction for loosening would be appreciated. Even a quick description of how the mechanism you describe holds the crank arms in place would help.
Ray Homiski
Elizabeth, NJ