Grandfather Clock Chimes and Hour Hand

Posted: Sun Dec 13, 2009 2:31 pm     Post subject: Grandfather Clock Chimes and Hour Hand

I just acquired an Ethan Allen Grandfather (or Grandmother) clock, Model 08-3810, about 30-40 years old. It ticks and keeps time but the chimes won't ring. I found the silencer on the right side of the movement but the lever seems loose and has no effect on the chimes in either position, up or down. Hmmm... so I thought I'd take off the clock face and look at the movement from the front. Removed the little round nut and minute hand in seconds, no problem. But the hour hand seems to be stuck on. I tried to pull it straight off, but stopped before I damaged anything. Questions: How to remove the hour hand if I need to access the front of the movement? How to restore the chiming? Also, what should I use to clean fingerprints from the weights, clock face, and other metal parts that may have been handled? Thanks! JRD

Posted: Fri Dec 18, 2009 8:49 pm     Post subject:

the hour hand will pull off 9 times out of ten.

You need some 'nippers' type pliers which are top cutters.
this allows you to grip the 'boss' or center part of the hand bush and you should use a slight twisting motion to ease it forward.

Chiming problem could be a weak mainspring - after 30 years everyone slows down!!

wipe the fingerprints off with damp soft cloth. if you use any harsher you may wipe the lacquer and paint off.