You are here:

Clocks, Watches/Sligh grandmother clock

Advertisement

Expert: - 10/16/2009


Question

Sligh clock
While still in the Army, we purchased a Sligh grandmother clock.  The first move went well.  However, the second move resulted in part of the right weight wire getting out of track.  We had that repaired and it worked until the next move.  Despite careful packing by me, it again got off track.  Now the mechanism is jammed and the wire cannot be moved. I have unwound it completely but it remains jammed between the right reel and the center reel.  I suspect that we will need to replace the entire mechanism but am unsure how to order one and also wonder if this is something I can do myself.  I am moderately skilled at carpentry and various types of assembly work.

Answer

sligh
generally this occurs when the cable is wound up with out the weight attached first.

you will not need to replace the entire mechanism for this issue.

the mechanism must be removed from the case to repair it.

If you can get a pro to come fix it - that would be best.

if you wish to remove the mechanism and take it to a pro, you can save a house call charge. But if you have them come out- tell them it might need a new cable and give them ALL the markings off the rear of the mechanism so they can bring the right one to the house call. Ask if they will work on it there or insist on taking it to the shop- some pros will not do work like this in the home.

the photo if you enlage it will show the location of the right seatboard bolt-remove it with a screwdriver and the one on the left.

the photo also shows the lower right dial lock lever -one of four on each corner of the mechanism. remove the nut holding the minute hand on and then pull off the hour hand and any second hand if equipped.then with the weights and pendulum off and the 4 dial levers moved up and inboard - the entire dial and movement can be lifted and pushed in - then un-plug the dial with it's 4 posts and tip and remove it out the front -- then the mechanism.  
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentIncredible,I followed your instructions and the photo arrows that you put on my photo of the works and, in about ten minutes, I had the works out of the clock and ready to go to a repair shop. Several years ago, we paid an "expert" clock repair person about $100 to do this plus another couple hundred to "fix" the clock only to have it fail again. My next challenge now is to find a good clock man to fix the works. I really wish that you were closer because I know where I would take it. Thankyou for your help and for the timeliness (less than 24 hours on a Friday afternoon no less!!)


  • Ask a Question

Kenneth Saunders

Expertise

any mechanical clock question -no watches- no battery clock questions and no appraisals-ie: "how much is my clock worth?" type questions please! Attach a photo if possible and note all markings on the rear of the mechanism- thanks 40 years as a professional clock repair person- still a full time clock repair service owner

Experience

40 years as a professional clock repair person- still a full time clock repair service owner.

Organizations
NAWCC

Education/Credentials
above----------

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.