Question 1

What does the cryptic crossword clue "Vital bit of gear arrived shortly before opening of mine (8)" mean?

Accepted Answer

The definition is "Vital bit of gear". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). CAM (synonym="CAM") + SHAFT (synonym="SHAFT") = CAMSHAFT; definition: "Vital bit of gear" The answer is CAMSHAFT.

Question 2

What is the answer to "Vital bit of gear arrived shortly before opening of mine (8)"?

Accepted Answer

The answer is CAMSHAFT.