Expert: Michael Radi - 12/31/2008

Question
Hello Mr. Radi, I have a Howard Miller grandfather (mother?), #115 triple chimes, model 4899, weight driven clock. The pendulum has come off and I have not been able to attach it again so it swings freely. When I attach it where I think(?) it goes, it twists and stops. Guess I'm not attaching it correctly. Can you tell me what I'm doing wrong? A diagram, if you have one, would be very helpful. Thank you. Al

Answer
There are two pieces that the pendulum hangs from: The top piece is the suspension spring. It is attached to a post at the top, back side of the clock movement.
There is a leader attached to the suspension spring. It is probably about 4" long, the pendulum hangs from the leader.
Either your leader came unhooked from the suspension spring or the suspension spring is broken.
You will need to look at the back of the movement to figure this one out. The clock might have some viewing panels on the sides about the same height as the clock face. If it does these can be opened up or removed.
Here is a photo of a suspension spring that probably looks like yours:
http://www.norkro.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_90&products...
The leader might look like this one:
http://www.norkro.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=140&products_...
If you need a new suspension spring I can help you pick one out.
Michael