Stubborn Cannon pinion?

[Johnno]

Hi all.
I am working on dismantling and cleaning an inexpensive Anti-magnetique pocket watch (European made I am guessing?) but I cannot seem to release the canon pinion and hence the wheel which should be, I believe, just friction fitted. Cannon pinion removers are not doing it, neither is light upward pressure under the leaves. Any ideas?

ps. Just put it through an Utrasonic bath hoping it might loosen it up, hence some water drops.

Thanks.
John

[Randy]

John,
My guess is that it's just frozen onto the shaft.

There's a product in auto parts stores called "PB Blaster". It's a miracle solution for rusted/frozen parts.
Put some in a small cup and drop the plate into it. Leave it for a few hours/overnight, and see if it releases.
I've never heard of it being aggressive enough to harm parts..but I wouldn't leave anything in it for more than a day.

Best of luck,..

Randy

[Johnno]

Thanks, Randy. I will give that a try.

[Johnno]

Unfortunately I can't by PB Blaster downunder, so after a little research, I think I'll make up my own penetrant with 50% ATF and 50% acetone. That should unfreeze it, he says, fingers crossed.

[Randy]

Let me know how it goes !

R

[Johnno]

Hi Randy

Well that was something of a small drama. Finally freed up the cannon pinion and got it off the centre wheel pivot/staff. Process:

1. overnight soak in 5-/50 acetone & ATF
2. ultrasonic bath to try and shake it up
3. heat applied from cigarette lighter
4. staking tool to lightly strike the staff from cannon pinion side while still hot
5. finally freed and removed

Thanks for your help, much appreciated

best for the new year
John

[Randy]

Johnno,
Glad to hear you got it loose.
Good for you, for not giving up.
We always learn something along the way by being tenacious !

Best wishes to you this year

Randy

[Johnno]

[Randy]

John,
You wouldn't be the 1st one to take a hammer to a watch....just saying'