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Question
On Westclox Big Bens. Is the time gear train supposed to apply torque to the escapement wheel?
If so, what would cause this NOT to happen? (excluding time mainspring)
Hi Glenn,
It certainly is, as the mainspring, via the gear train, is the power source for the escape wheel to turn. Bear in mind that 1) the verge (anchor) only allows one tooth of the escape wheel to release at a time, and 2) a clock gear train greatly REDUCES the power delivered to the escape wheel (the opposite of most machines, such as an auto, which increases power). Either of these factors may make the escape wheel appear to not be powered.
Reduction to zero of the power delivered by the mainspring to the escape wheel is usually either need for lubrication or, more often, wear in the bearings of the gears, which eventually creates enough resistance to cause the clock to stop. These bearings are, in clocks, simple holes in the front and back main plates. Over time, the constant force exerted on them causes the holes to wear egg-shaped, thus reducing clearance to zero, and stopping the movement. http://www.clockmasteronline.com
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Answers by Expert:
Martin Meyer
Expertise
Can answer repair and service questions for most types of clocks, antique and modern, mechanical and battery. NO watches, appraisals, identification, history, dating, or questions about cuckoo clocks. Website for Modern and Antique Clock Repair: Clockmasteronline.com
Experience
24 Years as owner and repairman of clock repair business, 28 years in the field. Factory Independent Service Center for Howard Miller, Ridgeway and (formerly) Sligh Clocks. Specializing in Fine Antique Longcase (grandfather) clocks. Clock repair Website: (Please remove "Not" from the address - this is a spam protection): www.NotClockmasteronline.com
Organizations
AWCI (American Watchmakers and Clockmakers Institute) and NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors)
Publications
Am also an Expert in the "AllExperts-Antiques-Antique Clocks" Category.
Education/Credentials
Trained by a former Rolex Asia watchmaker, and by a Master Watchmaker/Clockmaker.
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