Expert: Michael Radi - 10/4/2009

Question
We recently moved and followed all instructions for moving the clock. It worked fine for awhile but all of a sudden, after pulling the weights to wind the clock, the far left hand weight seems stuck in the uppermost position and the clock is not striking properly. It strikes the quarter hours, but doesn't strike the hours. What has happened and what do I do?

Answer
There are only two ways to get the weight down: Get the clock to start striking again or remove the chain. Without seeing the clock I can't tell you what way is needed to get your clock working again.
Sometimes the chain hook gets caught in the hole at the top. You might be able to look up from underneath and see if this is the case. You might be able to get the clock striking again by releiving the pressure of the hook inside the hole.
This is not an easy fix for a novice. The chain wheel only allows the chain to ratchet in one direction: pulling the weight up. In some cases the weight hook is so high up you can't remove the weight. It usually involves removing the chain by cutting a link. The weight must be supported so it does not come crashing down. Sometimes I take the weight shell apart by unscrewing the bottom. This will release the heavy part of the weight through the bottom of the shell so again, care is needed. This does not fix your problem but makes things easier to work with. If you remove the chain, it must be put back on the clock and that's another process altogether.
There are many other things that could cause the clock to stop striking. A lever might be jammed, the hammers might be stuck or the gear train might be sluggish.
Some clocks have a door or panel on the side to allow you to view the inside of the clock. If you have this feature look into the left side of the clock. The hammers should be rested about 1/8" from the chime rods. Gently lift the hammers toward the side of the clock case, this may get the gears turning again and start the clock striking.
As you can tell by now, there is not an easy process for fixing this problem. I hope I have helped you understand the situation better. If you can diagnose the cause I will try to walk you through it.
Michael
www.norkro.com
clock parts and repair