How to Oil Cuckoo Clocks
Cuckoo clocks require oil to run properly. The oil needs to be replaced every year or two to maintain optimal performance. Improper oiling of a clock can result in the malfunction of the clock and the cuckoo mechanism. Professionals call clock oil, clock lubricant.
Materials
- Clock Lubricant
- Lubricant Applicator
- Soft Rag
Method
- Replace clock lubricant every year or two in order to maintain the clocks timekeeping mechanism.
- Clean the mechanism of any dust, dirt, and debris before applying any oil. This ensures dust does not become trapped in the lubricant.
- Obtain clock lubricant available at many hobby stores on the Internet and in local shops. Norkro is the name of a popular clock and watch service material provider. Get a lubricant applicator with or without a needle to deliver the lubricant in precise amounts in the correct locations on the clocks mechanism.
- Gain access to the clock mechanism located inside of the housing of the cuckoo clock. Perform this step carefully because cuckoo clocks are often valuable antiques that can lose value if the housing is damaged.
- Pour clock lubricant into the applicator bottle over a piece of newspaper or other absorbent surface.
- Locate the tiny holes at the back of the mechanism. Like other mechanical devices with internal moving parts and gears, such as sewing machines, tiny oil access holes allow the user to apply oil or lubricant that allows the moving parts to move freely without resistance.
- Squeeze the applicator to push some lubricant into the tip of the needle. Place several drops of oil into the tiny hole ensuring not to overfill. Wipe excess oil from the mechanism.
- Repeat the oil application process to all of the tiny holes. The average cuckoo clock has three to five oil holes.