Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 2/21/2008

Question
Our 1988 Chelsea Clock Co. mariner's clock has a corroded face plate that screws onto the brass body of the clock. We cannot get the face off to change the batteries or replace the glass face. It has been in a marine (freshwater) environment. Once brass corrodes to brass, it is a permanent bond?

Answer
I would not think so. soak the joint (with the clock face down) with a hardware store item like Liquid Wrench or WD40 or similar- even this might work: http://3mindustrialtransportation.thomasnet.com/image?&cid=2158&plpver=10&prodid...

then a couple of strong hands maybe assisted by twisted damp terry towels? good luck.