Restoring an American Style Number 2 Mantel Clock - Third Installment
In the fourth part of this series, we delve into the bushing work, reassembly, and testing for the Type 89 movement, a classic clock mechanism produced by the American manufacturer Seth Thomas between 1900 and 1938.
Essential Tools for Mainspring Cleaning and Service
To effectively clean and service mainsprings in antique and vintage clocks, you need a set of specialized tools. Key tools include:
- Mainspring Winder: This indispensable tool ensures safe removal and reinstallation of the coiled mainspring inside its barrel.
- Ultrasonic Cleaner or Cleaning Solution: For thorough cleaning, mainsprings should be immersed in an ultrasonic cleaner or a proper clock cleaning solution to remove old grease, dirt, and corrosion without harming the steel.
- Soft Brushes and Lint-Free Cloths: These are used to remove debris and excess cleaning agents carefully.
- Non-Corrosive Lubricant or Clock Oil: After cleaning and drying, a very light coat of clock oil should be applied to the mainspring to ensure smooth operation and to prevent dry pivot holes and wear on other movement parts.
Techniques and Procedure Highlights
- Disassemble the movement and safely remove the mainspring using a spring winder. This step is crucial to avoid injury and spring distortion.
- Clean the mainspring thoroughly. Either by immersion in a cleaning solution or ultrasonically, ensuring all old lubricants and dirt are removed.
- Inspect the mainspring for “set” or weakness. Over time older springs become fatigued and may need replacement if they can’t deliver appropriate torque or don’t run the designed cycle length (e.g., 8 days).
- Dry and carefully lubricate. After cleaning, dry the mainspring completely before applying minimal and appropriate clock oil. Too much oil can attract dirt; too little leads to wear.
- Reinstall the mainspring carefully using the winder, ensuring proper tension and alignment.
- Reassemble and test the clock movement for correct running and regulation adjustments as needed.
Additional Notes
- Professional repair often involves mainspring replacement if the spring is too weak or set, as vintage springs sometimes do not maintain adequate power after decades.
- Servicing without a mainspring winder is risky but possible with extreme caution and alternative methods, though using a dedicated winder is strongly recommended.
- Safety precautions include wearing leather gloves and eye protection when working with mainsprings.
In the next part of this series, we'll explore the bushing work, reassembly, and testing for the Type 89 movement, bringing it back to its original glory. Stay tuned!
