Hi,

I just found a very nice electric clock to insert into the glove-compartment door of my 38 coupe. I have tried to bench test it and wonder if I'm doing everything correctly. There are three wires coming from the back. One is the ground, the other is for the small light, the third, a fused wire, is for the clock itself. To bench test, can I simply fasten the ground to a negative 6-volt battery terminal, and the other two wires to the positive post, or does the physical body of the clock also need to be grounded? I ask, because I tried the ground wire and light wire (in the procedure above) and I get the light on very easily; but the clock does not move. Is there something wrong with the clock (yes, I've already checked the BUSS 1 A fuse and replaced it), or does the metal body also need to be grounded? Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Jim

Your connections are correct. To get the clock to start it may be necessary to use the doorknob method to get it started. (Grasp the clock and twist rapidly as if opening a door with a knob back and forth.) If this doesn't get the clock started it will be necessary to open the clock, lubricate the second wheel and physically start the action.

Dear Ray,

Thanks for your reply. I tried the "doorknob" method and, alas, it had no effect. I removed the back cover plate (held on by 2 small screws) and now I can see that there are further screws that will need to be removed. Am I right in assuming that the front chrome and glass must be detached; then the 3 tiny screws with little washers on the back must be removed in order to get the clock actually open? Once that is accomplished, how do I identify the second wheel and start the action? I've never taken one of these apart and don't want to wreck this one, which is virtually NOS. Any further description you can provide will be greatly appreciated. Is there a schematic somewhere? The were instructions in the original box, but no diagram.

Thanks,

Jim

It is easy to destroy an hard to replace part if you don't know what you are doing. I would suggest you take it to a watch repair or service business. They can either show you what needs to be done or service it for you. An alternate is to go to the local library and find a book on watch repair. If there is one on automotive clocks all the better. You may be able find something online also.

I agree with Chipper. If it is not obvious how to disassemble, best save for a professional. You may accidentally damage something.

Is there someone on our list who does such repairs? Or can someone recommend anyone with confidence?

Thanks,

Jim

Paraphrasing Chipper, if you take it to a jewler that repairs watches they should be able to fix it or send you to someone who can.

If your clock for your 38 is like the one in my 37 it is an electric wind but spring run, In other words it electrically winds itself every few minutes and then a small main spring actually runs the clock works. You can hear it make a "clunk" sound when it rewinds.

Hope this helps.

All of the older electric clocks that I have worked on are actually electrically wound and spring run. That minimizes the battery drain.

This guy advertises on ebay, retired gent in Texas that services auto clocks .
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/36-37-38-...=item2557e9f2d9

Thanks for the suggestions. I found a good auto clock restorer close to home, whose services seem reasonable and reputable. I have sent the clock off to it. Here is the address and website if anyone else might be interested:

Clock Works
1745 Meta Lakes Rd.
Eagle River, WI 54521
Phone:800-398-3040



www.CLOCKWKS.COM


Jim

Don't invest too much in repairing your clock. You would be lucky if they ran for a year when they were new.(if it was eletric)

How should one clean and lubricate the mechanism.I find the clocks run for a short while (<24 hours)until the oil dries up and then they stop.I use your WD-40 type spray oils, 3 in one also.

I covered the dial with plastic and masking tape and cleaned the mechanism with compression stabilizer spray. (A can with nozzle that produces a spray that turns to foam).I washed the mechanism off under hot water and the clock works.I did this to both an electric clock and a 30 hour clock with good results.The wind up clock runs for a day or so and the electric one ran all last night and today without stopping.Now for a nice oiler.

I collect antique clocks, as well as owning a 48 Chevy. I oil the pivots on my clocks with Mobil 1 Synthetic oil (5W-30) applied sparingly with the end of a sharp wooden toothpick. A tiny drop will do it.

Regards:
Oldengineer

Thanks Oldengineer. Will get that oil.Clocks still running,must be dirt not lack of oil that stopped them.

I Also Restore and repair pocket watches and clocks and they make oils made for the pivots and oils for the main springs. each clock that does not run needs to be taken apart and cleaned and Oiled. anyone that bypasses the disassemble of the gears and proper cleaning is only asking for a short term clock that may run OK or even great for a while but the pivots will wear and cause more damage. So please do Like I did on my 41 Have someone that does car clocks restore it its worth the price.