Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 7/23/2008

Question
Hello Sir:
My clock is kinda going out of sync with the chimes as the chimes are not playing the correct chimes at the half hour and hour.  The chimes are off or advanced when the hour comes about, chimes play but with an extra chimes or its not playing the whole St. Michale/westminister/witt.
How could this be adjusted and also when the clock strikes on the hour its sticking with only two hammers not three as I look in the back of the clock and I see that the third striking hammer is kinda stuck but if I hold the wheel it will strike.
I oil it with clock oil once in awhile.
Pls help as I check on a clock guy and he told me $185 just to adjust and clean but when I told him that I have a 8 hammers he then told me $200 and if it needs a new heart then that's $500,   dang I can't spend that amount of money that's why I have come back to you to ask you for help.
Thanks you very,
Lenard

Answer
I am afraid your clock guy is correct-it does need cleaning, etc. 185 and 200 is not too bad but the 500 for new movement is a bit steep as they only cost him 125.. 300 would be more reaasonable - get a second opinion from someone who actually sees the clock.