American PW How install T end Mainspring?

[Lee02]

What is the trick to getting lower T end into its hole in pocket watch mainspring barrel when installing a new mainspring?

 

[richiec]

Try to leave a small end with the T sticking out of the winder and carefully try to stick it in the hole. I have found that if close, you can use a screwdriver to push the T end around a small distance and get it in the hole if you miss.

 

[4mula1fan]

I leave the T end proud of the tool. I put the T in the hole and hold it in place with tweezers and release the holder.

 

[Lee02]

Thanks for the replies!
I have tried these methods and end up with the lower T end just missing the hole in the barrel. Right now I have a new mainspring in a barrel that just missed the hole. I have tried using tweezers to slide the T back to the hole, but it doesn’t move. I will try using a screw driver.

 

[Dave Coatsworth]

Use the back end of your tweezers to hold the T-end in the hole. Then release the spring from the holder.

 

[Lee02]

Thanks! That definitely will help keeping the end of the T in the hole!

 

[DeweyC]

Use the back end of your tweezers to hold the T-end in the hole. Then release the spring from the holder.

There is a French saying " Why make a new tool when the back of the tweezers will do"