Some people say there's no satisfaction like that of tackling a job by yourself and getting it done right. Whether it's fixing your vehicle or finishing a home improvement project, the idea of doing a task correctly...and saving some money can be a great feeling. In the spirit of doing-it-yourself, clock repair can also be completed efficiently and inexpensively. Here is a quick guide to the most common parts you can find from a supplier that can help you fix your clock.
Small parts for a clock motor
Grommets, rivets, and speed nuts (Timmermans): These are the small parts that are vital for mounting a mechanical motor. See the diagram for details, but these are the most common items needed for motor maintenance: 2-grommet; 3-rivet; 4-speed nut (either Simplex/IBM or Cincinnati/Edwards).
It is important to have these small parts at your school or business for use when needed. Why take a clock out of the network for a day or two because you don't have a 50 cent part on hand? These small parts get lost or dropped, or items like a grommet will go brittle over time, so it is important to have this hardware handy for a quick repair.
Replacement Moving Parts for a Clock
Motors and clock hands (and the associated mounting hardware). When replacing a motor, you will need to know three things:
1) Does the motor have a correction coil or not?
2) What type of motor is it? Simplex/IBM, Cincinnati/Edwards or Faraday/Honeywell?
3) What are the voltage requirements? There is 24/24 vac, 120/120 vac and 120/24 vac. Check the model or part number on your clock to determine the replacement needed. When replacing clock hands, know the clock type to order the correct hands, and it is always a good idea to order a complete set (pair) of hands when making a purchase. Follow the same protocol for mounting hardware on a set of hands: keep plenty of these small, inexpensive items on hand, which in this case are friction plates and nuts.
Replacement Clock Plugs
Molex connectors provide the power transfer to your synchronized clocks. Over time, these connectors may become brittle and need replacement. Again, you will need to know the type of clock: Simplex/IBM, Cincinnati/Edwards or Faraday/Honeywell. There are two different plugs — one that plugs into the wall, the other to the clock. These plugs can also be ordered in a complete set.
Replacement Clock Crystals
These are the covers for the face of a clock. Over time, the glass or plexiglass become damaged, scratched or scuffed. When a new crystal is needed, please supply the clock brand and model number when placing an order, as there are many different sizes and varieties available.
As a final reminder, have plenty of small mounting hardware on hand for quick repairs. The more expensive items like motors or crystals can typically be delivered the next business day. Repairing your own clocks can help you avoid costly on-site maintenance calls, and give you that sense of satisfaction that comes with doing it yourself.
