Cleaning and lubricating a mainspring is essential for restoring smooth power delivery and preventing erratic striking. Old grease, dried oil, and accumulated dirt create drag and reduce the spring’s ability to unwind evenly. This guide shows how to safely clean, dry, and lubricate a mainspring using simple materials and proper technique.
For related restoration steps, you may also find value in guides such as the Vienna Regulator restoration or the Ingraham 8-Day movement repair.
Materials needed
Kerosene
Kerosene is an effective solvent for removing old grease and oil from mainsprings. Only a small amount is required. In some regions it is dyed blue to prevent accidental ingestion, but any standard kerosene works.
Scourer pad
A small piece of scourer pad is used to scrub the spring. Only a small section is needed.
Clean cloths
Several cloths are required for wiping away kerosene and drying the spring completely.
PTFE grease
PTFE grease provides long-lasting lubrication and does not attract dirt. It is ideal for clock mainsprings.
Toothpick
A toothpick is used to apply grease in a controlled, even manner.
Protective gloves
Kerosene can irritate skin, so gloves are recommended during cleaning.
Cleaning the mainspring
Prepare the scourer pad
Dip the scourer pad into the kerosene and squeeze it to distribute the solvent evenly. Only a small amount of kerosene is needed.
Wipe the spring from end to end
Starting at the outer end of the mainspring, wipe back and forth along the length of the spring. This removes old grease, oil, and dirt that have accumulated over many years.
Protect your work surface
Place newspaper or protective material under the spring to prevent kerosene from damaging your bench.
Clean as far into the coil as safely possible
Do not pull the spring outward to reach deeper into the coil. Overextending the spring can distort its shape and compromise its integrity. Clean only as far as the spring naturally opens.
Drying the mainspring
Wipe with a clean cloth
Use a clean, folded cloth to wipe away kerosene. Work from the outer end toward the tighter inner coils.
Repeat until no residue remains
Use additional clean cloths as needed. Continue wiping until the spring is completely free of kerosene and debris.
Applying PTFE grease
Use a toothpick for controlled application
Dip the toothpick into the PTFE grease and apply a thin, even layer along one side of the mainspring.
Grease only one side
When the spring is rewound, the grease will naturally transfer to the opposite side, creating full coverage without excess buildup.
Work from the inner coil outward
Apply grease along the entire length of the spring, ensuring consistent lubrication.
Check coverage
Lay the spring flat and visually confirm that the grease is evenly distributed.
Storing the mainspring
Use a labeled bag
Place the greased mainspring into a bag labeled “Strike” to avoid mixing it with the time or chime mainsprings. PTFE grease will not attract dirt during storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use WD‑40 instead of kerosene?
No. WD‑40 leaves a residue that interferes with proper lubrication. Kerosene is the correct solvent for mainspring cleaning.
Is PTFE grease better than traditional mainspring oil?
Yes. PTFE grease provides smoother power delivery, lasts longer, and does not migrate or attract dirt.
Should I stretch the mainspring to clean deeper?
No. Stretching or pulling the spring outward can distort its shape and permanently weaken it.
How often should a mainspring be cleaned?
Every time the movement is fully serviced. A mainspring should never be reused without cleaning and lubrication.
Can I clean a mainspring without removing it from the barrel?
No. Proper cleaning requires full removal to access the entire length of the spring.
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