Expert: Martin Meyer - 4/27/2008

Question
I have a Grandfather Clock which has been in the family for many years. Clock made in Germany and is probably over 100 years old.  Stands 7.5 ft. high, 21" wide at top and bottom. It has not been lubricated in over a year. Prior to that, was not lubricated for "years".  Keeps time well and gongs are resonant.  What type of lubricant should I use,and at what points do I lube?
Many thanks in advance...

Answer
Hi David,

It is extremely important to use only Clock Oil; no other lubricant, such as all-purpose oil, instrument oil or spray oil is acceptable. These oils are available from any clock supply house. There is a wide range of prices, but generally, you need not use the super-expensive oils. Any good quality synthetic clock oil should be okay.

You should apply a small drop of oil to each point where a gear shaft tip enters a bearing hole in the front and back main plates of the clock. These holes are slightly chamfered, and the hole should well in the chamfer, and not drip out. You should also oil the clicks (ratchet pawls that hold the weights wound), and apply a small drop of oil to any three teeth of the escape wheel (the last gear in the time train, with saw-tooth shaped teeth.