Quote:
Originally Posted by JimF
My horologist took my grandfather clock and did a complete 'service' after we had for 4 years or so.
About 6 months later it would just 'stop'. Starting it, it would run for a few days, then stop. Getting extremely tired of this, I took the clock apart and got the 'mechanism' outside on a jig (for support).
I used a degreaser to completely clean the clock's mechanism and then . . . .wait for it . . . . use a teflon based dry lubricant giving the clock's mechanism a good 'soak'.
That was apx fifteen years ago . . . the clock hasn't stopped and to boot, it keeps perfect time!
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There are two types of clock services. A lubrication and a full service.
A lubrication is just a light cleaning of the workings of the clock some minor adjustments and oiling. This is done on most "newer" clocks as they don't yet have the age on them to justify a full disassembly.
A full service involves taking the whole clock apart and soaking it in a cleaning agent that cleans all the oil and oxidation off all of the parts. The parts are then dried and inspected for wear. After any replacements are made all the parts are placed on a high speed clock lathe and are high speed polished to reduce friction. The clock is then reassembled and oiled and run for several weeks to make all the adjustments the movement needs to keep time.
Sounds like you just got the quickie lubrication and cleaning. What you did was very similar to the full service. The teflon lubricant is not the classic lubricant used to lubricate clocks but certainly sounds interesting. Typically clocks are only lubricated on the front and back plates of the movements rather than on all of the gears. Dust and debris tends to stick to oiled parts and causes more friction in the long run. The good thing about clocks is it takes a LONG time for them to start showing wear.
In addition to Mercedes cars clocks are another of my passions.