hands that wobble/jiggle

Posted: Sun Sep 06, 2009 1:03 pm     Post subject: hands that wobble/jiggle

I have built a couple dozen clocks, ranging in size from 12" to 20", and have been using the Q-80 for the 12" & 16" and the high torque movement for the 20". The problem is that my hands wobble & jiggle, especially with the high torque movement. Once the clock is hung, there's no problem. The problem is noticable when the clock is moved or handled, as when it is being taken out of the packaging & hung, or examined for quality.

Is there a way to avoid or correct this problem? Is there a mechanism that will prevent it? I am somewhat limited in the mechanisms I can use since I need hands that will be the proper length for 12", 16" & 20" faces. I am considering switching to the US made mechanism (10262) for the two smaller sizes.

I am considering using a SMALL & VERY CAREFULLY PLACED dab of adhesive (E6000 or a 2-part epoxy, perhaps) to firmly attach the hands to the shaft. I wonder if this would damage the mechanism or interfere with the hands' ability to move. I know this would make it impossible to remove the hands or replace the mechanism at a later time, but I'm ok with that.

Does anyone have any thoughts, suggestions?

I don't think I'm doing something wrong with the assembly process, but any tips there would be helpful.

Thanks

Posted: Tue Sep 08, 2009 12:09 am     Post subject:

The hands should not wobble, did you buy them with the movement from klockit?

Sounds like the hands are not fitting properly on the shaft(s).

Posted: Tue Sep 08, 2009 10:35 am     Post subject:

Thanks for reply.

Yes, I've only used the hands that came with the mechanisms for the Q-80 and only used the hands that are offered by KlockIt for the high torque with the high torque.

Actually, the problem seems to be a combination of things.
1. The inner section / moving part of the shaft itself wobbles a bit. This actually seems to be more of the issue than the hands themselves, now that I look at it more closely. (The threaded portion of the shaft fits snugly in the holes I drill & I secure it firmly with the washer & nut, so that's not the problem. It's the inner part where the hands attach.)
2. The hour hands attach firmly but the minute hands are not snug.
3. The nut that holds the minute hand in place always seems to need to be retightened after the clocks are transported.

Posted: Wed Sep 09, 2009 1:41 am     Post subject:

Sounds like the Q-80 is not a very high quality product.

Ive used the high torque 10045 movements without a problem, or for the regular clocks the Seiko brand.

Posted: Wed Sep 09, 2009 1:13 pm     Post subject:

Just a generalized suggestion: What I have found with the Q-80 movements is that the minute hand will be loose if the cap nut is not threaded on "straight". I know it seems odd, but if the cap nut threads onto the shaft the slightest bit crooked, it will not properly secure the minute hand. It also may lossen over time. When threaded on straight, the cap nut should seat down over the minute hand, properly securing it. The minute hand nut driver greatly helps with this - however it can also be done by hand. Anytime I find that my minute hand is loose, it always results in removing the cap nut and re-mounting it. Hope this can help to correct the problem...