Here’s an update on our simplex time recorder repair. I have completed the disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly of the time recorder mechanism in what’s turned out to be a rather complex Simplex punch clock. Prior to disassembling, I cleaned the recorder with a degreasing agent to remove most of the heavy grease and dirt. This revealed the details of the smaller parts often hidden under years of built up grime.
I was unable to find any literature on this time recorder mechanism on the web. These mechanisms are quite unique and very complex. There were many variations manufactured, so I had no references available if I ran into difficulties on the reassembly. Therefore, I photographed (as well as taking some video) every step of the disassembly process.
I prefer to reassemble a complex item such as this whilst the disassembly is still fresh in my mind. As such, I tend to approach these jobs with a somewhat fanatical attitude. My goal is to work on it continuously until completion, much to the chagrin of my dear wife. I started the project on a Friday and finished it by Sunday afternoon. It was a marathon operation!
All the rust was removed, the cast-iron frame was repainted and all the bright-work polished.
The reassembly went well, thanks to my meticulous photo / video documentation. As you can see from the before / after photos, the project was well worth the work.
The actual clock movement looked to have had the winding arbor bushings replaced and the entire movement was spotlessly clean. I had little to do to it other than oiling and a quick tune up to get the clock in beat.
As with many time recorders, the connecting rode that connects the movement to the time recording device was missing. I had a spare one, but it was shorter than the one needed for this clock. I cut it in two and used a brass sleeve soldered into place to extend its length.
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The case was polished and the movement and recording mechanism were refitted into the case. The dial is still at the ‘Dial House’ pending restoration.
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