Expert: William J Perkins - 10/7/2009

Question
I have a Howard Miller mantle clock (about 3 years old) and the Westminster Chime does not function.  The clock runs fine but when winding the chime spring, the key won't turn.  To me it feels like I over wound it.  I read your answer to another individual with a similar problem and you suggested that the spring needs lubrication.  I opened the back door of the clock and the springs are encased and are not visible.  Can the springs be lubricated throught the encasement or does the movement have to be taken apart? Or, did I overwind the chime spring?  Thanks.

Answer
Overwinding any clock is nigh on to impossible.  No you cannot successfuly introduce lubrication onto the spring without removing the spring and its container from the movement.  Then you would pop-off the back of the unit to introduce a very small amount of lubricant.  Frankly I believe this sort of repair is best left to a professional clock repair person.  Spring work can very dangerous, resulting in serious damage to the person doing the work as well as to the clock.  Please do not attempt this with out proper guidance and application of safeguards.  Regards WJP