Expert: William J Perkins - 12/27/2009

Question
On 1/7/09 (Tempus Fuget Grandfather Clock won't chime right...Please Help.) you almost answered my question but you misunderstood the other guy's question. I have the same problem.  My clock strikes eight times at 9:00.  Your answer addressed striking nine times at 8:00 (move the hour hand forward and re-set the time).  Can I move the hour hand backwards to fix my problem?
Thanks,
Roy

Answer
Avoid moving the time setting backwards.  When such a need seems apparent, simply stop the clock until you can correct by moving the time setting forward.  Clock movements are built to move forward not backwards.  Many of the old timers and some high quality clocks, even today,  can suffer severe damages by such actions.  To be safe always set to the correct time by turning the hands forwards.   As noted in my answer you can always stop the clock to achieve the desired results without endangering the works.  Regards WJP