grandfather clock runs fast

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2007 12:31 am     Post subject: grandfather clock runs fast

My grandfather clocks runs extra fast. Gains about 1 hour or more a day. I can't adjust the pendulum any more or the bob will fall right off the bottom. I adjusted the beat and I think it sounds proper but I have gut feeling that the beat is my problem. should I try adjusting it again or is there something else that could be the problem?
As far as I know no one has been messing with the clock. The weights should be all in the correct spots.

Thanks in advance.

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2007 8:07 am     Post subject: Clock runs fast

Unfortunately your problem may be beyond the scope of this forum. A lot more information and details would be necessary. Even then it would probably be necessary to examine the clock. You don't say if it has always gained time or if it has only recently happened. I would have to say that any clock that gains that much time over a 24 hour period is beyond a simple adjustment.

Posted: Sun Aug 26, 2007 2:11 am     Post subject:

Agreed, if your clock were out of beat it probably wouldn't run at all.

You might find this an interesting read:

http://www.northcoastimports.com/2006/06/new-problem-with-your-young-clock.html

Posted: Mon Aug 27, 2007 4:01 am     Post subject:

What more details would you like? The clock used to run just fine. I have fixed many different devices. This clock is a new venture for me but it is just full of gears like other mechanical things. It can't be that difficult
I would like to attempt to determine the problem. When I do I may end up sending to a clock service anyway.

Posted: Fri Sep 14, 2007 7:30 pm     Post subject: clock going fast

The only thing that controls the timekeeping of the clock is the pendulum. For the clock to suddenly to go fast, is the minute hand slipping?

Cheers

Daniel

http://www.pendulumofmayfair.co.uk

Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2007 4:59 pm     Post subject:

Your escape wheel is probably tripping through the pallets. This is the usual cause of uncontrolled gaining.

If the clock is working then look at the teeth when it is ticking and see if one tooth only is stepping onto a pallet face each swing of the pendulum.

Posted: Mon Oct 08, 2007 11:08 pm     Post subject:

I think I found the problem. The bracket the pendulum hangs on has one broken part. Here is picture. Note the left side has split. What is the proper name of this part and where would I get one? Thanks.

EDIT
OK I figured out this is called the suspension spring. Clock is an Urgos and also found several places that sell the springs. Trying to find a place in Ontario Canada preferably near Niagara Falls so I can go in person and get one.

Posted: Thu Oct 11, 2007 12:24 am     Post subject: Suspension Spring

Unless you can find a clock parts/repair business in the Falls, your best bet is either making a trip to Toronto or ordering online from a clock parts house. Urgos parts may be a little difficult to find now which is why I suggest Toronto or via mail order. Try H & W Perrin Co Ltd. At last report they still had some stock of Urgos movements and parts. They do have an e mail address also. It is sales@perrin.on.ca. otherwise they are located at 90 Thorncliffe Park Drive, Toronto M4H 1N5. Suspension springs are not that expensive and they may insist on a minimum order. You'll have to enquire.

Posted: Thu Oct 11, 2007 12:38 am     Post subject: Suspension spring

By the way, Urgos grandfather/grandmother suspension springs are slightly different than your garden variety (Hermle, Kieninger) suspensions and I would recommend that you get the proper replacement part.

Posted: Fri Oct 12, 2007 1:15 am     Post subject:

I found the place my father bought the works from orginally, Murray Clock Craft. I called the guy up and he is sending me one. About $10 including shipping. I thought that was pretty good since the ones I found on the net were $20 plus shipping.

I'll let you know how it goes. I hope this fixes the problem.

Posted: Fri Oct 12, 2007 7:20 am     Post subject: suspension spring

I would have suggested Murray Clock Craft but I discounted the idea since I didn't think they would still have any parts on hand. They discontinued handling Urgos movements over 20 years ago. In any case they were able to supply the needed part and that's good. Hopefully that will solve your problem.

Posted: Fri Oct 19, 2007 12:00 pm     Post subject:

just be careful placing the new one in, if you end up puting a slight kink in the spring your pendelum will wobble as it runs.