'63 Clock Second Hand Stops after 5-10 Seconds

[Frederick H.]

Just had the clock restored from a very trustworthy source who said he lets them run for days prior to returning and I have no reason to doubt him. After installation however, the second hand stops after running about 5-10 seconds. Tap the dash and it starts running again (for the next 5-10 seconds). Checked for previous threads but found none on this specific issue - any help is appreciated.

[Donald O.]

Re: '63 Clock Second Hand Stops after 5-10 Seconds

It may be a PIA but I would pull the clock from the dash and try the clock with a known good +12vdc power source and see if the problem continues. If it does, send it back for the rebuilder to warranty his work. I don't think you have a power supply issue, if you did, it wouldn't energize the coil and wind the spring to get the clock to operate for 2-4 minutes. If it was a missing ground, again the clock would not operate.
As a secondary check, use a DVM at the clock connector in the harness and see if any anomalies appear in the rythmic cycle. No anomalies, again my bet is its the clock itself.

Just my $.02

Don

[Frank D.]

Re: '63 Clock Second Hand Stops after 5-10 Seconds

If you pull the glove box liner out you can have the clock on the bench in 10 minutes and do as cited above with an external power supply. "The Clock Works" did my 63 clock several years ago and it runs fine to this day (but is rarely powered up)... Sounds like you have an intermittent electrical problem or a lack of lubrication. Either way I think the rebuilder owes you a fix...

[Edward B.]

Re: '63 Clock Second Hand Stops after 5-10 Seconds

Curious about the problem description. Is it just the second hand that stops moving? Does the minute hand continue to turn?

[Frederick H.]

Re: '63 Clock Second Hand Stops after 5-10 Seconds

Good Point - I will check that tomorrow.

Thanks.

[Frederick H.]

Re: '63 Clock Second Hand Stops after 5-10 Seconds

Thanks for the tips. Since it worked for several days according to the rebuilder, I'm wondering if it didn't get "bounced" around during shipping. I did have a new wiring harness installed prior to the clock install (it didn't work before the new harness - stem was loose, etc.). It will be awhile before I have time to test, but will let you know what I find. He also restored my instrument cluster and it looks great, but now the Ammeter gauge flickers but that is for a different thread.

Thanks All.

[Frederick H.]

Re: '63 Clock Second Hand Stops after 5-10 Seconds

Nope - minute hand doesn't turn either. Looks like it's coming back out. Dang it.

Thanks to all for the help.