Expert: William J Perkins - 10/21/2009

Question
QUESTION: It will not chime Properly.Does not click at the quarter hour and half hour like I know it should Weights are In the right order.The chime leaver is in the right Position also I can make it sound the hour by holding down the hour weight.Is it a federal case. thank you. Bob

ANSWER: Not unless you consider being dirty a federal case.  From your description, my conclusion is, the clok needs cleaning.  Regards WJP

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QUESTION: I have a Gilbert Mantel Clock Approx.1910 brass work  Cleaned it With Ammonia hot water,can not keep it running . It does seem to have a loose bushing in the gear next to the Escapement gear,could this be the fault?I used three and one oil for lube. can I find new bushings? again thanking you so much. I am eighty years old finding this hobby interesting.  Bob

Answer
First welcome.  This is indeed an interesting hobby and can become a damned good job.  You are still a kid of a boy compared to me, so, indulge me.  You need a bit more than ammonia and water to make up a decent clock cleaning solution.  Also 3 in one is not an appropriate lubricant.  I would guess that the 3 in 1, probably over used, is responsible, in least in part for the clock not running.  And yes a bad bushing can surely be a major contributor to your problems.  Your instincts seem to be properly directed, but you do need direction.  May I suggest you get the following book from your local library system.  "The Clock Repair Primer", by Phillip E Balcomb.  I am sure you will find this book not only a great learning tool, but downright fun.  If you choose to pursue this hobby you need to find a resources store from which you can acquire parts, materials etc.  Provide me with your address and/or zip code and I will point you to a clock materials house in your area.  Again welcome, ENJOY!!!!!  Regards WJP



Sorry it took me so long to dig this out.  You are very fortunate to have one of the major clock materials houses in your vacinity.  Go-to <merritts.com>  This will take you to the on-line cataloge of Merritt's Antiques of Douglassvile, Pa.
Anytime you thing I might be able to give you a hand, do not hesitate to call upon me @ <flashpowder@hotmail.com>  Regards WJP