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Another newbie question

Posted: Thu Jan 11, 2018 10:01 pm
by Milo Bloom
I was able to get my machine open tonight and took the attached video of its mechanism. How far off is this from normal and is it common with a basic fix?

Re: Another newbie question

Posted: Thu Jan 11, 2018 10:17 pm
by 52089
Your motor is gunked up with decades of accumulated grease and oil and is binding frequently. Based on what looks like a start-and-stop problem, there may also be bearings that are too tight and are preventing the mechanism from running smoothly. I would recommend a complete disassembly, grease and oil removal, and reassembly with modern lubricants. At that point you can also adjust the bearings so that everything rotates properly.

Re: Another newbie question

Posted: Thu Jan 11, 2018 10:33 pm
by Milo Bloom
Great, thank you. I will aim towards doing that.

semi-related question - I am a little wary when cranking this up because I don't know how far I would go before I over-wind it? Is there an accepted number of rotations, or will I be able to feel when it's fully cranked?

Re: Another newbie question

Posted: Thu Jan 11, 2018 10:39 pm
by Jerry B.
Yes, you will learn the feel as the spring approaches a full winding. But I'd wait until your motor has be degreased and serviced before giving it a good winding.

Jerry Blais

Re: Another newbie question

Posted: Thu Jan 11, 2018 11:27 pm
by 52089
...and if you do decide to do the work yourself, be sure to let the motor run down completely so that there's no tension at all in the springs before you start taking things apart.

Re: Another newbie question

Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2018 6:19 am
by Phono-Phan
The arm that runs against the governor and moves the speed indicator needs to pivot freely. I have had these bind up and really affect the operation of the motor.