Chelsea Platform Question

[Les Sanders]

I am working on a L 4 Chelsea Ships Bell Clock I have a problem with the balance cock screw tightness, I only snug the screw lightly. when I screw it down to snug it stops the balance wheel, if I back it off 1/4 turn from snug it runs and keeps good time. I do not like having to back off the screw, what condition am I dealing with? See the 2 videos note the balance cock screw

 

[darrahg]

My guess is that the escape wheel leaves are binding with the cog wheel when tightened down. I don't recall if the platform can be moved laterally (for a little adjustment) before tightening or not.

 

[shutterbug]

Usually there's an issue with one of the components in the balance. Perhaps fork position. You should be able to secure the balance without issue.

 

[Karl Burghart]

Les, the problem is likely with the balance or the balance cock. Check to be sure one of the pivots is not bent and peg the balance jewels. Next check the seating area of the balance cock. Any small dings or debris will cause the cock to tilt towards the balance it don't take much. Often there are tiny prick marks called "pigs ears" that poor quality workman use to adjust the balance. A few times on and off and they are mushed back down. Lower cap jewel not upside down? Lastly you could take a tiny amount off the balance staff but it is almost positively one of the other items.

 

[Karl Burghart]

One other thing. The balance jewels are friction fit. One may have moved up slightly. A jeweling tool would be able to move it back down.

 

[Les Sanders]

Karl, that is Bingo "pigs ears" I do not have a jeweling tool what are my other options, I also re cleaned the entire platform and had some tiny black particles.

 

[Karl Burghart]

Les, I would first carefully remove the "pigs ears". A razor or exacto should be able to remove them. From the looks of it that may fix your problem.

 

[Les Sanders]

My hats off to you Karl, Thank You, It worked like a Million Bucks, see the new video balance clock snugged up. Again Thank You!

 

[Karl Burghart]

Happy to be of help.