Foster McCulloch log tape measure Question

[Bilge Rat LT 20]

Cleaning my shop i came across some vintage tools i had put in a box.
In it i found this loggers tape. It is probably 1960s era.

It will not rewind without shaking and winding the spring and shaking some more.
It feels gummed up with crud, old oil etc.
How can i clean it? Will throwing it in the parts cleaner hurt anything inside?

How does it come apart without the spring flying everywhere?

It is in used but good shape, the only thing missing is the flat spring on the belt clip.

Thanks.

 

[madhatte]

Let's see a pic. If it's an early Spencer, there's lots that can be done, so long as the gears aren't chewed up too badly.

 

[Bilge Rat LT 20]

Pics, i am computer retarded. I still have a flip phone, it's waterproof and makes calls. Film cameras i can do even develop my own film or could when you could still get supplies.
Mechanical anything i can do.

This tape says Foster
McCulloch
Eugene Ore.

I sprayed a little electronics cleaner in it and followed that with some light spray oil.
That has it loosening up and starting to operate.

It is white metal/chrome frame with a purple anodizing on the spring cover/winding cover.
Reminds me of the old rewinding fly reels of the same era.

The origional owner worked in Hayward Cal. as a diesel mechanic in the 50s-60s at Peterbuilt most of the time.

I need to learn some of this computer crap soon.

 

[madhatte]

Sure would like to see it! Anybody else know anything about these?

 

[Joe46]

Found an image of one on www.worthpoint.com. Very similar to a Spencer.

 

[madhatte]

Looks like it gears the same. I wonder if modern parts would fit?

 

[Bilge Rat LT 20]

worthpoint is a nice site. The foster Mac is what i have only the spring winder is an anodized purple.

I have mine loosened up and starting to operate.

The Spencer looks real close. The spring release on the Mac is different but the bolted together frame looks the same.