Quartz Clock Conversion
Quartz Clock Conversion
Just did the Corsa quartz clock conversion kit from Clark’s. Went OK. However, wanted to mention a couple of things that the instructions should have mentioned. First, the instructions said to use the red gear and pinion. The red ones would not work in my application. The pinion on the minute wheel ass’y was a different pitch than the red gear. I had to use the black gear and pinion, they meshed just fine. Second, the minute wheel ass’y has a slip clutch built into it. Be sure the gear turns freely while holding the shaft firmly. Third, there was no way I could use the brass cups that are intended as a base for the grommets that the locating shafts go through. I BARELY got the retaining clips on w/o them. After I had it all together, I couldn’t set the clock. Just a lot of “ratcheting” noise. That’s where the slip clutch info would have been helpful. Mine was apparently too tight. Had to take it apart and WD40 the clutch and work a very small screwdriver between the clutch and gear (found these tips by watching a video). Anyway, reassembled it and all seems well now as I have it bench testing. Has been keeping correct time for 6 hours.
Gary Roberson
66 Vert 140 4-sp Corsa “clone”
66 Vert 140 4-sp Corsa “clone”
- bbodie52
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Re: Quartz Clock Conversion
Thanks for the installation tips. But, given all that work, time and hassle to obtain a fairly accurate working clock in the Corsa instrument panel, I think I would rather use the space to mount a voltmeter or oil pressure gauge. (Removing the semi-useless manifold vacuum/pressure gauge in a non-turbo Corsa opens two spaces — room enough for both the voltmeter and oil pressure gauges side by side to match!)
I prefer the modern convenience of a good GPS that provides loads of useful travel information, a hands-free cell phone interface, a very accurate GPS-based speedometer, and a clock display that is synchronized to the Natural Bureau of Standards "Atomic Clock". It also transfers easily from one car to another — adding to its value and usefulness!
Brad Bodie
Lake Chatuge, North Carolina
1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible
Lake Chatuge, North Carolina
1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible
Re: Quartz Clock Conversion
That makes good sense Brad, but i like to keep it stock where practical
Gary Roberson
66 Vert 140 4-sp Corsa “clone”
66 Vert 140 4-sp Corsa “clone”
- bbodie52
- Corvair of the Month
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Re: Quartz Clock Conversion
That also makes perfect sense. Many Corvair owners wish to maintain their cars as close to original as possible. Since I use our Monza sedan as a daily driver, I have chosen a few modern conveniences, such as the GPS, more advanced tires and wheels, electronic breakerless ignition, etc. I considered, and recommended the quarts clock modification years ago to provide for a functional clock but remain with a stock appearance.
Of course, if you truly want to remain all original on the Corsa, you would have to disable the clock. Most truly original Corsas have a clock that failed years ago! As with the breakerless ignition, modern electronics win over the use of points, whether they are in the clock or in the distributor. In both cases, the modern upgrade is fairly well hidden inside!
Of course, if you truly want to remain all original on the Corsa, you would have to disable the clock. Most truly original Corsas have a clock that failed years ago! As with the breakerless ignition, modern electronics win over the use of points, whether they are in the clock or in the distributor. In both cases, the modern upgrade is fairly well hidden inside!
Brad Bodie
Lake Chatuge, North Carolina
1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible
Lake Chatuge, North Carolina
1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible
Re: Quartz Clock Conversion
You’re correct Brad. I wonder how many of those GM/Borg clocks lasted more than a year
Gary Roberson
66 Vert 140 4-sp Corsa “clone”
66 Vert 140 4-sp Corsa “clone”
- bbodie52
- Corvair of the Month
- Posts: 12096
- Joined: Mon Aug 06, 2012 12:33 pm
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Re: Quartz Clock Conversion
Sometimes I wonder how many working Corvair clocks even made it out of the dealer showroom before they failed!
Brad Bodie
Lake Chatuge, North Carolina
1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible
Lake Chatuge, North Carolina
1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible