Mxfrank - took your advice and it is now in the hands of a professional clock repairman. He says at least two weeks before he can do the solder. Says he could build up extra metal on the snail but would be costly; says for sure do not file the snail which is what I contemplated.

Your money would be better spent having a new snail cut than trying to improve this one. Just get used to the odd ring sequence, and let it go.

The most important question...did you have fun? I find playing with mechanicals to be very relaxing.

Yes, a real learning experience; and I get to put it all back together, try to get the thing synchronized so it rings the proper number of times according to the clock face, and slightly bend the rack tail so it catches the snail - terms I had never heard before this.

Meanwhile I get to figure out how to replace a sticking brake caliper on my 81 300SD while I wait for a starter spring to arrive for my Lawnboy mower - also nothing I have ever looked inside before - and I try to get it running again after twenty years (lawnmower, not the SD).

Has been a real pleasure trading ideas with you and I appreciate all the guidance and advice.