1940 Clock Help - Merc & Ford

glennpm

glennpm

Well-known member
Hi,

I'm debating what to do with my broken 1940 Ford clock. The main spring broke yesterday but otherwise the clock is in very good condition. so these are the solutions I'm thinking about:

- Replace main spring but how and with what? Searching yesterday I found mention that the old portable Westclox springs. I couldn't find any other source nor how to replace it.


- Buy a 40 Ford clock suitable for parts and must have a good main spring. These clocks are pricey.

- Replace the 40 Ford clock with a 40 Mercury electric clock. For this I need the dimensions I've noted. I realize that the Merc is flat but I believe I can get it installed.


40_mer10.jpg
 
Classic Auto Electric has done a great job on my ‘50 clock and converted my radio to FM. I have nothing but good results using them.........Mark
 
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My late brother was a clock and watch repairman. He had the tools to make springs. I would think any good clock and watch guy could make a new mainspring for your clock. It isn't tiny like a woman's wrist watch. He learned this trade from a 2 year Community College course, perhaps there is one near you who could help. You might search for a school.
 
If you have a real old time watch/clock repair person in your area check with them, they may be able to find a spring that will fit and replace it for you. I see took too long thinking and
posting.
 
If your into clocks you can get main springs. Some of the ends have to be modified to work in the 40 Ford different clocks. It may be best to have the clock looked at by a pro. They have the equipment to get the hands off properly and replace the face.


I wonder if the dimensions you asked for above are the same as 40 Ford. With a change of hands and face you could have a electric 40 Ford clock
 
Williamson's in Arkansas repairs clocks. They can convert it to quartz movement if you prefer. Did two conversions for me, great work.
 
I've used the clock works for my '40 wind up and my '47 electric. Both were about $100 each and I had them back working in less than two weeks.
 
Terry said:
If your into clocks you can get main springs. Some of the ends have to be modified to work in the 40 Ford different clocks. It may be best to have the clock looked at by a pro. They have the equipment to get the hands off properly and replace the face.

I wonder if the dimensions you asked for above are the same as 40 Ford. With a change of hands and face you could have a electric 40 Ford clock
Click to expand...


Yes Terry those are my thoughts too and the reason I asked for dimensions.



I bet DD has a Merc clock in his collection :-))
 
Thanks, they have this message up now though:


NOTICE: DUE TO A LARGE BACKLOG AND LIMITED HOURS THIS
SUMMER, WE ARE NOT ACCEPTING ANY NEW ORDERS AT THIS TIME!



REGULAR BUSINESS WILL RESUME IN SEPTEMBER.
 
Terry said:
If your into clocks you can get main springs. Some of the ends have to be modified to work in the 40 Ford different clocks. It may be best to have the clock looked at by a pro. They have the equipment to get the hands off properly and replace the face.

I wonder if the dimensions you asked for above are the same as 40 Ford. With a change of hands and face you could have a electric 40 Ford clock
Click to expand...


Hi Terry,

I found two references to the mainspring to use. Some said that the Baby Ben would work but others, the Travel clock. From what I could measure without removing my mainspring, the Baby Ben is too high at 5/16". I bought a Travel Alarm from ebay today and a tool to pull the hands.
 

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  • Westclox BabyBen Mainspring.jpg
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paul2748 said:
Williamson's in Arkansas repairs clocks. They can convert it to quartz movement if you prefer. Did two conversions for me, great work.
Click to expand...


I checked with them today and with shipping both ways it would cost $400 for a conversion! Way to rich for me.
 
Let us know how the Travalarm spring works out for the Westclox. Is CML40.3 the number of the spring you ordered?
 
glennpm said:
I checked with them today and with shipping both ways it would cost $400 for a conversion! Way to rich for me.
Click to expand...


I just got off the phone with Ron from Williamson's. He CALLED me in response to an email I sent about a clock conversion and other gauge questions for my '54 Ford Ranch Wagon. The quote was $250.00 for the 12 volt conversion with a lifetime warranty. (another quote from another vendor was $370.00) He also took considerable time to advise me on options for using the stock gauges for fuel and temp on 12 volts. Never tried to sell anything. Just offered good advice and several options to consider. All in all I was very impressed with his knowledge and professionalism. Unfortunately you don't see this type of customer service from vendors today. JMO
 
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