Unraveling the mystery: What does it mean to 'bus a clock'?
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In a fascinating exploration of clock repair, we delve into the process of restoring a worn-out mechanical clock movement. Our focus is on a Mission style clock, manufactured by the Sessions Clock Co. of America, which was discovered in a thrift shop in Pembroke, Ontario. This article marks the first part of a two-part series on understanding clock pivot wear and bushings.
The proper functioning of a mechanical clock relies heavily on the smooth rotation of its parts. One of the critical components that can cause issues is the pivot, an end of an axle that spins in small holes drilled in the clock plates. Worn pivots, often found in clocks that have been oiled excessively without proper cleaning, can lead to a multitude of problems.
Worn pivot holes, easily identifiable as they are oval-shaped instead of round, can cause excess play and improper running of the clock. Over time, this wear can lead to the gear moving away from the pinion, eventually causing the gears to no longer mesh properly and the clock to stop.
To address this issue, the worn pivot hole is carefully enlarged to create a clean surface for the new bushing. A brass bushing of the correct size is then chosen, with the outer diameter matching the enlarged hole and the inner diameter matching the original pivot size.
The Bergeon Bushing Machine, a tool favoured by professional clockmakers for its precision and control, is then employed. The clock plate is secured in the machine, which drills the worn hole precisely and reams it to exact dimensions. The machine then presses in the bushing with controlled force, ensuring a snug fit without damaging the plate.
After installing the bushing, the hole’s interior is polished to minimize friction on the pivot. The pivot itself may be polished and lubricated with high-quality clock oil to ensure smooth rotation. The clock movement is then reassembled and tested for proper operation.
This process restores proper alignment and fit for the clock’s pivots, reducing wear and improving timekeeping reliability. Regular servicing of mechanical clocks, ideally every three to five years, can help prevent such wear and tear, preserving the clock's functionality.
While your search results lacked a direct step-by-step guide for the use of the Bergeon Bushing Machine specifically, this outlined procedure matches established clock repair best practices generally employed by professionals in the field. Proper lubrication and cleaning, as mentioned in the sources, follow this repair to maintain long-term smooth function.
If your clock runs erratically or stops altogether, it may need bushings. Regular servicing can help prevent such issues and ensure your antique clock continues to tick away, keeping perfect time for generations to come.
[1] Source: Clock Repair Guide, "Clock Pivot Repair" and "Using the Bergeon Bushing Machine", [accessed 2022-03-25].
A vintage Mission style clock, discovered in a thrift shop, requires clock repair due to worn pivots that affect its smooth running. To address this issue, a brass bushing is installed using the Bergeon Bushing Machine, a tool preferred by professional clockmakers for its precision, to reduce wear and improve the clock's lifestyle, while integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
