Expert: John Newman - 11/22/2011

Question
Dear Sir,
I own a Diplomat Clock - Model 1000,MD-RR-140 cm Lyre since 1983. So far it worked perfect, altough we moved seven times then.  Last week the clock finally stopped giving advance indications, like ; started delaying, sounding weaker, etc. Altough I tried all necesary recovering steps, it only runs when I put more downward pressure on the weights. Thus giving me an impression, that it needs a cleaning&lubrication. My question :
a. How is the cleaning should be performed? What solvents or cleaning agents should be used?
b. How is the lubricating process should be done? What lubrication product should be used?
Sir, I need your kind  attention and advice.Thank you.

Answer
Ozkan, when a clock starts slowing down, usually chimes first, that is an indication of gummy lubricants and/or worn parts.  As your movement is close to 30 years old, it could be that there are some worn parts.  I recommend that a clock be serviced every 7 to 10 years.  This includes cleaning, inspecting, repairing any broken or worn parts, lubricating and adjusting.  For a field cleaning the movement should be removed from the case and separated from the dial.  This gives access to the complete movement so the front and back can be serviced.  Traces of build-up of gunk around the pivots and wear areas should be removed.  This can be done with wooden picks, brushes and clock cleaning solutions found at clock suppy companies.  But this procedure is really for light field cleaning, which is mainly lubricating.  Properly and professionally done, the movement should be completely disassembled and each part cleaned and inspected.  And only proven clock cleaning solutions should be used.  I cannot recommend any other products because of reaction with brass and other components and also flammibility of many cleaning solutions.

As for lubricating, we have a saying that all rotating parts should be oiled and sliding parts should be greased.  Again, a good clock oil and grease should be used.  Never spray anything on the movement.  Lubricants should be used sparringly.  I have a couple of representative photos showing lubrication points I can send you.  Contact me at my shop email address below and I will download them to you.  It will take a little time for me to do this, as my shop computer had a major crash and it is the shop now trying to be recovered.

John Newman
The Village Clocksmith
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

klokdok@juno.com

Note concerning questions not related to Allexperts:  Because of my commitment to answering Allexperts questions within a prescribed time limit and the large backlog of clock work at my shop, I regret that I cannot answer personal email questions on a timely basis, other than Allexperts follow up questions.  I will try to answer these emails as soon as I can. Thank you for your patience.