Westminster chime hammer question

Posted: Tue Jan 29, 2008 4:47 pm     Post subject: Westminster chime hammer question

New to clock restoring and have just repaired a Westminster chime mantel clock. The chime is a bit dull and flat, not a crisp ping, is it time to replace the hammer heads on the rods? I think the present ones look worn and are muting the gong bars, I can see no obstruction to the bars and the chime mechinism is smooth.

Thaks

Mike

Posted: Tue Jan 29, 2008 10:18 pm     Post subject: Re: Chime hammers

First, are the hammers striking the rods squarely, rather than offside? Second, are the hammer(s) resting on the rods after striking, resulting in a rebound strike and "dulling" the sound. The hammers would then have to be adjusted to remain clear of the rods after striking. You can also try manually dropping the hammers onto the chime rods and listen to the resulting sound. Does it sound clear? As well, make sure the chime rods are not obstructed and that the chime block is firmly attached to the case.
Certainly worn hammer heads can affect sound too. Many older chime hammer tips were made of leather which eventually hardens or develops grooves where the hammer hits the chime rod. Some were made of felt and this too turns to stone with age. This can also affect the sound. Most modern hammer tips are plastic.

Posted: Wed Jan 30, 2008 1:48 am     Post subject: Westminster chimes hammers reply

Thanks for the info clkwrx

I agree with you on the last point after checking all the other points and all is fine there, the hammers seem worn and the felt tips have indeed hardened so I will give some replacement hammers a go, I need to track down a supplier online somewhere in the UK

thanks Mike