Wood Clock gears. Question on what type of wood to use?

[Mrak]

I'm just getting a "little" grasp on  everything and I'm hoping for some advice.  I'm going to start on a wood gear clock and I've been looking for Grade B plywood "Birch" because it's the cheapest.  I've been shopping around to find the best value on the different websites and wondered if anyone out there had a favorite place that they liked shopping at. 

Also:

Is there any reason why the plywood should be used instead of buying some solid wood, say from homedepot for example.

I've always used the plywood in the past when I attempted to make wood gears, but I wondered about using just plain solid wood from the inexpensive boards from the lumber shelves.

Thanks for any response.

Mark

[Clayton717]

the only reason I could see for not using solids wood would be possible warping and cupping of the larger pieces.

[oldhudson]

Check out this link when you get a chance: http://www.scrollsawvillage.com/topic/7800-wooden-gear-clock/?hl=%2Bwooden+%2Bgear+%2Bclock

 

I'd stick with the best plywood you can get - real Baltic Birch or that Apple PW.  In addition to the points Clayton made pw is dimensional more stable (when humidity can vary 70-80% wood can change size quite a bit) and it's less expensive than clear hard woods. I found the clock one of the most satisfying projects I've ever done. I can't wait to build my next one. Good luck Mark

[LarryEA]

Listen to a clock maker, Oldhudson

The cross grain of plywood makes it much more stable than lumber.

Less affected by changes in humidity and temperature which is important

in a wooden clock.

You can't make a Rolex with Timex parts.

 

[amazingkevin]

Do a works in progress on your clock making for us ,many many pictures makes us happy!

[Travis]

I'd get real baltic birch plywood.  I wouldn't trust the birch plywood they have at the big box stores.  They sometimes have voids in them that will cause problems.

 

I've bought from Sloans Woodshop with good results.  http://www.sloanswoodshop.com/

Ocooch Hardwoods is another popular choice.  http://www.ocoochhardwoods.com/

You can also find some good deals on eBay.  Here's a great tool for finding specialty woods on eBay.  http://www.wooddealsonline.com/wood-by-craft/scroll-sawing/