Defective Soldering Job Leads to Malfunctioning New Haven Sharp Gothic (Steeple) Clock - Part 2

Defective Soldering Job Leads to Malfunctioning New Haven Sharp Gothic (Steeple) Clock - Part 2

In a recent local online estate auction, a unique timepiece caught our eye – a New Haven Gothic Steeple 30-hour clock. This intriguing piece, with its distinctive design and rich history, has become the subject of a two-part series.

Measuring 20 1/2 inches tall with a 5-inch dial, the clock boasts a design that gained popularity in the mid-19th century. Its tall, slender form, reminiscent of a church steeple or spire, is a testament to the era's architectural influences.

Upon acquiring the clock, we found that it was in good condition, with only minor veneer issues on the base and the columns, and a missing finial. However, the movement required attention. The drop lever was bent and scraping on the cam, causing issues with the clock's operation.

The first part of our series, titled "History Unearthed," delved into the fascinating story of the clock's acquisition and its historical significance. Now, we turn our attention to the servicing of the movement.

The movement appears to be original to the case, and the dial is original as well, displaying some loss typical for a 135-year-old clock. The tablet, likely original, features a sailboat against Greek temples surrounded by gold foliage on a black background, adding to the clock's charm.

The servicing process began with the replacement of the broken count lever. A new lever was crafted and inserted, and the pendulum rod was used as the new lever material. The clock also needed two bushings for the strike side cam wheel and the escape wheel located on the back plate.

For those unfamiliar with clock repair, it is highly recommended to consult a professional clockmaker or horologist who specializes in antique American clocks like the New Haven Sharp Gothic. The mechanisms are delicate and complex, and without specific documentation or parts diagrams, a general repair approach is necessary.

Here is a step-by-step guide for replacing a broken count lever on a New Haven Sharp Gothic (Steeple) clock movement:

1. Identify and Access the Count Lever The count lever on a New Haven Sharp Gothic clock movement is part of the striking mechanism that controls the count of the strike. To access it, carefully remove the clock's movement from its case and locate the lever connected to the strike rack and snail mechanism.
2. Disassemble Carefully Take photographs or detailed notes about the current setup before disassembly to ensure correct reassembly. Use appropriate clock repair tools and gently remove any retaining pins or screws holding the count lever in place.
3. Remove the Broken Lever Once accessible, detach the broken count lever. Depending on the damage, you may need to slightly bend or straighten parts to free it safely.
4. Obtain a Replacement Lever Because New Haven clock parts are specific, sourcing an original or compatible replacement may require contacting clock parts suppliers specializing in antique clocks or searching for used New Haven Sharp Gothic movements to salvage parts from.
5. Install the New Count Lever Position the new lever exactly as the original was installed, ensuring it interacts correctly with the rack and snail. Replace pins or screws, making sure the lever moves freely but has no excess play.
6. Test the Strike Mechanism Reassemble the movement partially and test the striking action to confirm that the count lever correctly controls the strike count. Make any fine adjustments as necessary.
7. Reinstall the Movement in the Case After confirming proper operation, reinstall the movement into the case and perform a full functional test.

As we continue to restore this beautiful piece, stay tuned for Part II of our series, where we delve deeper into the servicing of the movement and share more insights about the New Haven Sharp Gothic (Steeple) clock.

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