Expert: Martin Meyer - 4/19/2008

Question
I have a Howard Miller 613-153 wind-up wall clock with pendulum.  Over a year ago, I noticed that it would only run for maybe about six hours once it was wound.  Subsequently, it's more of a wall decor than it is a useful clock.  Is there anything I can check/do myself to get it back in proper working order?  Or would I need to take it somewhere to have it repaired?  It just started "acting up" one day...no real "warning."  It was originally purchased in 1989, and I bought it from friends about 13 years ago, and I've never done anything to it as far as maintenance goes.  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Christine,

There are many possible causes of a clock's stopping, and I can only provide some common things for you to check.

First, make sure that you wind the clock all the way as far as it will go, on all keys.

Second, check the pendulum "beat". With the clock hanging on the wall, start the pendulum with just enough swing to keep ticking. Now listen to the tick: if your clock is in beat, the tick sound should be "tick-tick-tick", steady like a metronome. If it is out of beat, the sound will be uneven, "tick-TOCK-tick-TOCK". If your clock is out of beat, move it side-to-side on the wall in VERY small amounts, trying one way and then the other, until the beat evens out. The amount you move it will probably be less than you can notice when you're looking at the clock. If you have to move it so much that it looks crooked on the wall, then you'll need to have a clock repairer set the beat for you, or you can browse my previous answers for a description of setting the beat by adjusting the crutch.

Finally, your clock may need lubrication, or the movement may be worn out. The average lifespan of these movements is about 15-20 years. You should have a professional clock repairer do the lubrication, and he can  also look for wear in the movement at the same time. If the movement is worn, it may need replacement.