Expert: Martin Meyer - 6/25/2008

Question
I have a Howard Miller mantel clock from a friend. I believe the
movement is a 1051-020. Well, whenever I enable any of the chime
settings (there are 3- St. MIchaels, "Whitt", and Westminster), the chiming
mechanism starts to chime. It goes through the whole sequence and
repeats it over and over again. It never stops chiming. It doesn't chime the
hour, just the tunes. Is there any way to fix this? Or should I just leave the
chime on silent?

I don't know if this will help, but there were some numbers on the back of
the clock's mechanism. There is "31cm" with a line below it, and below
that line there is "125.77" Also, above the manufacturer's name there is a
"78".

Answer
Hi Christopher,

It is highly likely that a part called the "chime locking plate" or "chime lock piece" is broken. Unfortunately, as far I know this part is no longer available. There is a newer version of this part which you may be able find at clock supply houses like Timesavers, Merritts Antiques or Empire Clock. But this part requires machining to fit on your 1978 movement.

Your best option is probably to take the clock to a qualified clock repairer. He will probably have old movements from which he can remove the part. Additionally, the part is fairly difficult to install and adjust, and the clock repairer will be experienced in this.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com