R107 Clock Not Working

A stopped clock is one of the most common small R107 faults. It is rarely a big problem, but a dead clock in an otherwise perfect dash is irritating. Most clocks can be brought back with cleaning or a quartz movement.

Where the clock is

On most R107s, the clock is in the instrument cluster, built into the tachometer or as a separate small dial depending on year. The time is set with a knob on the cluster. Check your car; early and late cars differ.

Why the clock stops

• Blown or corroded fuse: the clock usually shares a fuse with other circuits such as the interior lights. See electrical troubleshooting.
• Dirty or dry movement: older electromechanical clocks wind themselves with a small coil and contacts. The contacts get dirty and the lubricant dries out.
• Worn contacts: the self-winding contacts burn over time.
• Bad ground at the cluster.

First checks

1. Check the fuse and its contact surfaces.
2. Check that the clock has power at its connector with the ignition off (most clocks run continuously).
3. Tap gently on the cluster. If the clock starts and stops, the movement is the problem.

Removal

The clock comes out with the instrument cluster. See instrument cluster removal for how to pull the cluster. Once the cluster is out, the clock is removed from the back with small screws. Handle the cluster carefully; the faces and needles are fragile.

Cleaning and repair

Some owners clean the self-winding contacts with fine contact paper and add a tiny drop of clock oil to the movement. It works, but often only for a while. A specialist instrument repairer can overhaul the original movement.

Quartz conversion

Quartz conversion kits replace the original movement with a modern quartz mechanism while keeping the original face and hands. They are reliable and accurate. For a car you drive, I think a quartz conversion is the best value. If you want a concours-correct car, keep the original movement and have it repaired.

Cost

A cleaning costs only your time. A quartz conversion kit or a professional overhaul is moderate. A replacement clock is the most expensive option.

Quick answers

• Will a stopped clock drain the battery? Normally no. A defective movement can draw a little more current; see battery drain.
• Why does my clock run fast or slow? Many original clocks have a small adjustment screw. Quartz conversions are more accurate.
• Is the clock fuse shared? Usually, yes; check the fuse chart for your year.
• Can I fix it without removing the cluster? Usually not.