Expert: Martin Meyer - 4/21/2008

Question
Dear Martin,
Recently I bought this Emperor grandfather clock that does not work. The wieghts are stuck at the top and they will not move somebody sujested that the clock might be locked. Please let me know what to do or how to unlock the clock.
Thank you Ara.  

Answer
Hi Ara,

There is no lock as such on your clock. Sometimes there is a shipping bracket attached to the back plate of the movement to keep the pendulum leader from swinging. This is a flat strap of metal, usually blue steel, which is clipped onto the side of the back plate of the movement, and goes across the back plate to hold the pendulum leader still (the part the pendulum attaches to, a vertical brass piece about 6 inches long).

Additionally, some movements have large L-shaped steel pieces which can be rotated to press down on the chime hammers to keep them still. These pieces will be on the right and left upper corners of the back plate. They can be simply rotated up and away from the chime hammers.

However, it is more likely that your clock just needs to be set up. The clock must not only be level, but the pendulum must be put in beat. You can browse my previous answers for instructions on adjusting beat, but it is preferable to have a professional clock repairer do a service call to set up your clock. He will not only set the beat and level the clock, but can adjust the chime hammers, correct minor settings and lubricate the clock if necessary.