Inherited Grandfather Clock but not working!

Posted: Sun Jul 26, 2009 11:33 am     Post subject: Inherited Grandfather Clock but not working!

Hi, just inherited a lovely Grandfather clock, moved it but cannot get it to keep ticking. Is it possible that something has been set to lock it (advice from previous owner). want to make sure its nothing simple before we call the specialists out.

Posted: Mon Jul 27, 2009 3:13 pm     Post subject:

There could be several factors attributing to this problem. Here are some initial things you can check for:

1.) Make certain the clock movement is perfectly level. If not, you can typically level things by adjusting the leg levelers located on the underside of the base (if applicable).

2.) Make certain the pendulum is in beat. The pendulum should swing so that there is an even "tick-tock" heard. If not, the crutch arm should be adjusted (beat adjustment). Beat adjustment is done by moving the crutch arm side to side. The crutch arm (which the pendulum leader is fed through) must swing an equal distance from center to left (as well as from center to right). If it does not, then the movement is not in beat (and the pendulum will typically stop). Note that some movements feature automatic beat adjustment (which the movement will self adjust by over-swinging the pendulum).

3.) The pendulum is connected to the pendulum leader, which hangs from a small piece referred to as a suspension spring. Check to make certain the suspension spring is not broken. The suspension spring will look like two, thin metal plates connected together by two thin bands of metal in between. If either thin metal band has broken, the pendulum will not continue to swing.

I am not familiar with any sort of locking mechanism for mechanical movements (and their pendulums), however I am not experienced with all brands of movements. A good step would be to try and identify the movement manufacturer. From this point, you can see if there is a manual available to assist with trouble-shooting.