Smiths Enfield striking problem

Posted: Sun Sep 21, 2008 8:30 pm     Post subject: Smiths Enfield striking problem

Hi,
I have a Smiths Enfield striking mantle clock with a problem when it makes its last stike either on the hour or half hour.
This stike is not clear like the rest.
It would appear that the striking hammer remains on the chime.
Is there a spring that has possibly broken and where would it be located?

Many thanks in advance.

Mike

Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2008 12:25 am     Post subject: striking problem

The hammer needs to be bent upwards slightly so that it does not rest on the gong. At rest a clearance of about 1/8 inch between the hammer head and the gong is normal, however it may be necessary to adjust this slightly as each case can be a little different. If you lift the hammer manually and let it drop it should hit the gong without resting on it afterward.

Posted: Tue Sep 23, 2008 7:29 pm     Post subject: striking problem

Thanks for the information.
I tried it last night and all is now well.

Once again many thanks.

Mike

Posted: Thu Nov 20, 2008 3:39 pm     Post subject: Smith Enfield

I have just joined the forum and also have a Smith Enfield chiming mantle clock in my modest collection but have never seen another.

Mine has a contemporary wooden veneered case. After I purchased it, I tightened up a few loose components, particularly the chime which tended to slowly swivel around and placed a paraffin dampened cloth inside the clock case, which I was told is a sypathetic way to un-gum old movements. It was then used 24/7 for 9 years in a holiday cottage and never missed a beat. It's current status is " mothballed".

If Bigted is still around I would be pleased to exchange notes/photos.