Repair Process

When we say "complete clock repair,” we mean it! No shortcuts! Your clock movement will be restored following these steps:

Step 1
The movement is completely dismantled, cleaned and rinsed using ultrasonic cleaning techniques. The cleaned and rinsed parts are dried in a clock dryer. Next, all internal parts are inspected for wear, including, wheels, pinions, pivots, levers, cams, barrels and springs. Then, all pivots are burnished and replaced, if badly worn. Mainsprings installed in barrels are always disassembled, cleaned and inspected. This is to detect excessive wear and the possibility of repair or replacement need.

Step 2
Attention is now turned to inspecting and repairing the clock plates. If the bearing holes common to the arbor pivots are found to have excessive wear, bushings are installed, using care to fit them on the original center. The internals are installed and the new bushings are broached, as required, to provide the proper clearance with the mating pivot. The clock trains are then spun and tested:  face up, face down and the correct way around. This ensures the trains are free running.

Step 3
The escape mechanism is examined next. Very carefully, checks are performed on the escape wheel for bent or short teeth, radial and tangential run out. Strike levers have their working faces smoothed and polished. Next, the pallets and faces are attended to, polished and/or rebuilt, as required, to ensure the escapement can be adjusted properly. The escapement mechanism is fitted in place and adjusted for correct function. When the abovementioned is satisfactory, the strike train is timed. At this stage, the clock is oiled with quality clock oil. Then, all items belonging to the front plate are reinstalled.

Step 4
The crutch or leader is secured to the suspension spring and bridge. The assembled movement is now set up on a test stand and started. After successfully completing a test run, the movement is installed into its case and tested once again.

All clock repairs are treated in a similar manner. When we return your timepiece rest assured, it is ready to provide you long and faithful service. For a complete list of the clocks we repair, visit the Dakota Clock Repair homepage. Dakota Clock Repair guarantees repairs will be completed in a professional manner consistent with the latest horological techniques applicable to your model and vintage of clock. 

If you are a do-it-yourself person, visit our sister site Dakota Clock Works to purchase a replacement clock movement, complete with comprehensive installation instructions, full, one-year warranty and free support after the sale!

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