I finally finished this one, and it was an adventure!
The basic structure went together fairly well, and the overall fit was good. A couple of areas needed a little glue for reinforcement, but nothing excessive.
The cuckoo mechanism, however, had plans of its own. Getting it working was an adventure. Getting it to remain working was another adventure entirely! This build went into time-out more than once while I stepped away, thought about the problem, and returned with a new plan. 
After repairing, adjusting, and generally negotiating with the mechanism, I now consider myself something of a Christmas Cuckoo Clock expert. If you build this kit and get stuck, come find me. I have probably already fought that particular battle! 
Santa still does not emerge every single time. He occasionally decides to stay inside, and he has a tendency to get stuck. At this point, I have accepted that he simply has a mind of his own. Perhaps he is checking the weather before coming out. 
Naturally, I colored the exposed edges and added a dog because no customized build of mine is complete without one. 
I also replaced the elf in the chimney with a teddy bear as a tribute to my customized Happyduke Toys build. 
This clock tested my patience and problem-solving skills, but the finished result is colorful, festive, and filled with personality.
After everything it put me through, I am very happy to see it completed and working, at least whenever Santa feels cooperative! 
) and runs all the way around, but kind of slows when he’s going back into his house. The next cycle, he pulls into the house. He truthfull comes out every other time. I’ve waxed everything up as well as i can and hope that over time he will start making the trip every time.
I sure hope I don’t run into any issues but if I do I might be tagging you for some help
Congratulations on finally finishing this challenging build! I love the personal touches, especially the little dog and the teddy bear in the chimney. Your patience definitely paid off, and the clock looks so festive and full of personality!