1972 Toronado clock

[1Xmueller]

My dash clock is not working, haven't checked it out yet though so don't know what the problem is . Is there a clock restorer that anyone knows of or a reasonable priced new one in case I can't repair it?
I'm still looking to share info with other '72 owners. This is my first Toronado but have owned three other Olds in the past.

[Otto Skorzeny]

My experience with old car clocks has shown that in nearly every case the clock will work if it's just cleaned.

Clean the contacts and electrical connections. Dirt, lint, grease builds up on the gear mechanisms and keeps them from turning. Use canned air and Q tips to blow it out and wipe it out.

Unless you see your hands flopping around or some other obvious problem I bet you can get it working.

There are also quarts movements you can buy to replace the works.

Of course there are companies that rebuild them and/or convert them to quartz movement. I used one a long time ago. I'll see if I can rustle up the company.

I'd try cleaning it first, though. Don't use WD40 and go easy with light oil on the gears.

[Otto Skorzeny]

The Clock Works Clock restoration
1745 Meta Lakes Rd., Eagle River
WI 54521
800-398-3040
http://www.clockwks.com/The_Clock_Worx.html

[1Xmueller]

Thanks, I'll do that.

[gmrocket]

Funny, I've had great luck using WD-40 based on a tip I read in Hemmings Motor News a bazillion years ago. You DO want to clean it first as any lubricant will exasperate the effects of dirt and lint in there. Just my .02 worth.

[Otto Skorzeny]

Yes. I didn't go into that because most people shoot that stuff on everything and then when the part starts working they go on about their merry way.

WD-40 may free things up but it has to be thoroughly cleaned out afterward otherwise it will goo up and freeze things worse than they were before.