R.J. Whelan
>Tek ... No 2's are pretty valuable and I think the 2C's are even more rare.

As others have suggested I would attempt to repair the original tote first. Failing an acceptable repair I would make a new one from whatever species that most closely matches the original and definitely save the original for future generations.

I have large hands, so I made new totes for almost all of my metal planes (even the Lie-Nielsens) - I recently sold several planes and I'm sure the price would have suffered had I not reinstalled the original totes and knobs.

As to finish: I have always favored several applications of oil followed by wax. I actually soak the totes and knobs in a jar of tung oil for several hours (first application) and then keep applying addition until it won't absorb any more.

Good luck with your repair and congratulations on the new addtion to your shop ............. rj