Springs on Antique Sessions Mantle Clock

Posted: Sun Jan 30, 2011 3:49 pm     Post subject: Springs on Antique Sessions Mantle Clock

I have a Sessions mantle clock with spring issues. The model is “Stratford” and the patent number dates it to 1929. The clock works appear complete, although it is missing its minute hand. The real problem is in both springs. The chime spring is functional, but the ratchet ‘catch’ slips. If accidentally wound in the wrong direction, the ratchet catch is loose enough on its pivot that it slips completely over the teeth of the engaging gear and is non-operative while in a reversed position. The ratchet’s pivot appears to be a rivet and not a screw so how can it be ‘tightened?’ The main spring has a working ratchet, but is snapped in half and needs replacement. But I don’t know how to remove the two pins that are securing each end of the spring. Is this repair doable by a do-it-yourselfer?

Posted: Sun Jan 30, 2011 5:34 pm     Post subject:

you need to disassemble the whole works to replace the springs, you must first let down the springs with a special tool, which can be dangerous once the tension releases if you try doing it manually.