Expert: Martin Meyer - 2/22/2008

Question
I have an old United Clock Corporation electric clock from my grandfather. Inside the back case is a date of 1949.It hasn't run in many years.  I took it apart to clean up the accumulated dust and to replace the brittle electric cord.  After doing so, the clock started right up, and seems to run properly.  The problem is that it is quite noisy.  I know nothing about clocks or clock repairs, so my description probably leaves something to be desired.  But when I open the back case of the clock, there is what I would call a flywheel spinning around; which is where the buzzing seems to come from.  By the way, the back of the case says that is was mfg by United Metal Goods Mfg Co.  Licensed under Westinghouse Elec & Mfg Co.  Does this just need to be lubricated?  Or does it need a new mechanism?  I'm sure it's not a very valuable clock, just for senitmental reasons.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Doug,
    The noise in your clock is almost definitely a symptom of a worn out motor. Sometimes lubrication of the motor bearings will help, but often the noise will subside for a short time, then return.
    Repair and rebushing of the motor is theoretically possible, and you may be able to find information on that topic by web searching, but I have not found it to be a practical repair.
    Replacement parts for United motors are not available from any source I know of, and are no longer being manufactured. You may be able to find another United clock with a similar motor on sites such as Ebay, and use the motor from that clock, if it is in better running condition than your original.