Bearing Stiffeners
See comments under Stiffeners in General
When bearing stiffeners are misplaced by a large amount (more than 6"), it is usually acceptable to leave them in place, fill the holes with bolts and add a new stiffener at the proper location. Bearing stiffeners that have been misplaced by a small amount can be a difficult problem. Removing it will risk damaging the girder, and it is also very time consuming. If it is left in place, it may not be possible to add a stiffener at the bearing location, because its close proximity to the existing stiffener makes it impossible to get a welding rod positioned on one side. If this is the case, it may be possible to add an extra stiffener a few inches to the other side of the bearing, which will result in the bearing being centered between the two stiffeners. If a diaphragm is to be attached to the bearing stiffener, refer to "Diaphragm Connection Plates" section of Tutorial. See example case for more information on bearing stiffeners.