Expert: William J Perkins - 12/12/2007

Question
I inherited my grandfathers clock.  The only stamping on the plate is Sessions Forrestville Conn.  I want to rebush and polish the pivots, they are pretty grungy.  I did not realize there was residual power in the mainsprings after safely unwinding them.  Even though I marked everything (so I thought)when I took the top plate off everything exploded!  Is there a resource I can turn to for a diagram of how the strike, chime and bell trains go back in?

Answer
Before anything else, NEVER EVER remove a clocks plates without first arresting the main springs!!  There is not only a strong possibility of personal injury but it sure as hell won't do the clock any good either.  I suggest you acquire a copy of Phillip E Balcomb's book, "The Clock Repair Primer."  This book is the best self-teaching manual I know of.  I wish you the best, regards WJP