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Discussion Topic:
Clock power
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silverchief |
02-10-2019 @ 12:08 PM
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Senior
Posts: 517
Joined: Oct 2009
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In order for the clock to operate in my 46 Ford, would it not have to be constantly receiving power - to do the rewind every two minutes.....or does it just tap into power when needed? If the former, does that explain why a test light between a disconnected negative cable and it's post shows a drain?
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Kens 36 |
02-10-2019 @ 1:07 PM
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Member
Posts: 339
Joined: Oct 2009
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Your clock should be connected to a constant power source. If your clock is operating correctly, you should only see a power drain for a millisecond as the clock winds. Ken
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JayChicago |
02-10-2019 @ 9:44 PM
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Member
Posts: 471
Joined: Jan 2016
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Your continuous test light-on makes me think the clock is stuck at its re-wind point. It is trying to re-wind the clock spring but can't. Probably due to dirt/wear in the mechanism, or the tired old solenoid is finally too weak to pull the spring. I would think the clock needs to be removed and sent to one of the clock specialists who advertise in the V8 Times.
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ford38v8 |
02-10-2019 @ 10:39 PM
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Senior
Posts: 2736
Joined: Oct 2009
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Before removing the clock to repair, determine what makes the test light go out.
Alan
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supereal |
02-12-2019 @ 12:04 PM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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It is often amazing how a small item like a dash clock can affect the battery charge. The "kicker" that winds the clock only draws current when activated, but the frequency of this action, over time, will affect battery charge level, particularly if the battery is old or the vehicle isn't driven enough to do a full recharge, as many collector cars are. You can install a master battery cutoff switch, or connect a "battery tender" to keep up the charge. With a master switch, you will have to reset the clock, but that is a whole lot easier than having to find the jumper cables.
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trjford8 |
02-13-2019 @ 2:41 PM
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Senior
Posts: 4202
Joined: Oct 2009
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To add to Bob's comment resetting the clock is a lot cheaper than calling the tow truck. I have converted most of my clocks to battery operated. I realize it's not stock, but the small battery clock works motors keep excellent time and you only need to change the battery about once a year. You can buy those clock motors for as cheaply as $5 to 10.
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trjford8 |
02-13-2019 @ 2:41 PM
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Senior
Posts: 4202
Joined: Oct 2009
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To add to Bob's comment resetting the clock is a lot cheaper than calling the tow truck. I have converted most of my clocks to battery operated. I realize it's not stock, but the small battery clock works motors keep excellent time and you only need to change the battery about once a year. You can buy those clock motors for as cheaply as $5 to 10. If you disconnect your clock it will always show the correct time twice a day.
This message was edited by trjford8 on 2-13-19 @ 2:43 PM
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