Expert: William J Perkins - 3/18/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have a trend (?) GF clock.  It has 3 weights, one for time, one for striking, and one for chiming.  It keeps perfect time, however neither of the wieghts for chiming or striking will drop to produce the noise.  I have checked to make sure that the functions are "turned on" and they are, the clock is not set to silent.  I have also checked to make sure the pulleys are not "off track" and they seem to be OK as well.  Any suggestions of what else to check?

ANSWER: You have already checked two of the obvious causes for the condition you describe.  There is another you can make, i.e., are the weights in the proper positions.  As you face the clock the heaviest weight hangs on your right.  The two remaining weights are the same and are hung center and left.  If this doesn't do it for you the old fellow is telling you he wants at the very least, fresh lubricants, and/or a bath.  Regards WJP

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks for the quick response to the first question, I do have a follow up for you-- the weights are in the proper positions.  Should I call an expert to clean and lube the clock or is this something that can be done by a lay person?  If I can do it myself, any suggestions on how to proceed?

Answer
I don't believe you should attempt cleaning your clock.  That is best done by a professional. As a caring owner I suggest you invest in a clock lubricating kit.  Refreshing the clock lubricants might very well be the solution to the immediate problem.  Specifics on a kit can be viewed at <howtorepairclocks.com/clock-oil.html>  It is worth a shot to look into, otherwise seek the services of a qualified cloc repair person.  regards WJP