Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 11/26/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have a mantle steeple clock which I built in the 1970's and installed a new Jauch PL21 movement at that time. The clock has been sitting without running for years because I lost interest in winding it. It is a very nice clock and I would like to give it to my daughter but can't get it to run now. Every thing seems ok and the clock will run with the pendulum removed (of course at a very fast speed) but when i hang the pendulum it will run for a very short time and stop with a jerky motion as if the pendulum is too heavy a load but it is the pendulum that came with the movement. I wonder if the movement needs cleaning (looks clean) or lubricating but don't know if this should be done, how to do it or what materials to use. Can you help?

Thanks for your help.
Marvin

ANSWER: probably does need cleaning- the old oil got gummy and set up- perhaps  you should get a pro to do the work if you are going to make a lasting gift out of it and not something you might screw up trying to save a buck? or only to have it quit again shortly after giving it??

http://www.m-p.co.uk/muk/ryoc/doc_page33.shtml

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QUESTION: Ken
I live in the boonies and don't know where to look for a clock repair pro. Could I try some cleaning without taking the movement apart? What would I use? I feel that it doesn't need much since it runs fine without the pendulum.
Thanks Marvin

Answer
try just oiling it first and before that, check to make sure the tick is sounding even - prop up one end of the clock a bit and then the other to see what is best and try running it again. take the hands and dial off and try running it too. and make sure the springs are wound up.