Clock dial inserts and their mounting surface...

Posted: Sat Dec 09, 2006 6:35 am     Post subject: Clock dial inserts and their mounting surface...

Hello all. I have a question that perhaps someone familiar w/these products can help me with. Here are the item numbers from Klock Kit: "#32272 3 1/2" Matte Brass Bezel Insert, #15408 Slim Profile Insert, #32234 3 1/2" Matte Brass Bezel Insert" Question: Can these be mounted on/to an area that has a thichness of roughly an 1/8"? What I am planning on doing is making a clock/barometer/thermometer out of an old classical guitar that I have by mounting the given items to the face of it. The project will altimately be a gift for my mom since she has contributed to my learning the guitar in my youth, and has supported the musical arts throughout my life. From what I have theorized from the pictures of the items here on Klock Kit - it might be able to be done (don't want to buy until I know for certain)

Thanks for any help/advice that may be given!!
P.Riggs

Posted: Tue Dec 12, 2006 2:29 pm     Post subject:

My fear is that 1/8" would be too thin for mounting. Inserts typically have metal spring clips or rubber gaskets that aid in mounting (sort of a friction mount - if you will), however either mounting option requires some depth to ensure that it will hold the insert in place. Basically, I worry that the insert would not be stable (in other words, wobbly) in material that thin. Would it be possible to glue blocks behind where you intend to mount the inserts? I am not certain if this application would work, but it would provide you with more mounting depth - which would help promote more stable mounting of the inserts you wish to use. With mounting depth requirements of 1/2" (or more) with the instruments you have selected, any additional mounting depth you could provide would be best. There may also be the possibility of gluing each insert into place with hot glue or epoxy - - however this would yield complications if you ever had to remove the instrument for replacement.

Posted: Wed Dec 13, 2006 2:52 am     Post subject:

Hey, thanks! I was wondering about that... How about this: What if I used some screws to mount symectrically around the available "rim" of the chosen inserts - would that work? Of course I would have to drill the rim(s) for screws. If not, I may have to make some wood 'doughnut' looking devices to drop in and glue prior to mounting the inserts in order to support the inserts, right?

Posted: Wed Dec 13, 2006 3:08 am     Post subject:

Also, how does the battery insert into #50408? I was wondering if it is on the rear of the clock...it would be a hassel to replace if I make the insert semi-perminent, you know.

Posted: Wed Dec 13, 2006 1:30 pm     Post subject:

Most (if not all) of the batteries will insert into the backside of inserts - which would make changing the battery more complicated if the insert is permanently mounted. You may be able to bore/cut a hole through the backside to allow for changing of the battery (etc.) - but I must be careful when making suggestions for a project I am not able to see. Screws through the insert bezel rim would probably not be an option I would recommend (for fear of possible damage to the insert), however the wood "doughnut" idea may have promise. Ultimately, if you can provide enough mounting surface (depth) for the insert, you should not have to permanently screw/glue the inserts in place.