Also what is a good way to bridge Token Ring to
Ethernet so
that these 486 machines can use my router/cable modem?
In today's hardware world, the easiest way to have Ethernet communicate
with Token Ring is via a dual-topology router. The Cisco model 2514 with
one Ethernet and one TR interface should be very affordable in the used
market.
If you can find older Cabletron MMACs or the chassis based Proteon
equipment (70 series, etc.) you can bridge TR to Ethernet at layer 2.