Expert: John Newman - 12/18/2009

Question
I have an Emperor Model 300 series clock with their model 301A movement that I will be moving shortly.  I would greatly appreciate instructions on how to move the clock safely.
Thank you.


Answer
Edward, I just received a notice from Allexperts that I had not answered your question yet.  I do apologize.  I actually had answered it in detail;  Evidently there was a glitch in the system and it did not get to you.  I will copy it when I get to my shop this morning and resend it.  Sorry for the delay.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

I could not find my file, so here goes:

First, if the clock has a chain driven movement, allow it to run until the top of the weights are even with the other end of its chain.  If it is a cable driven movement, either let the clock run until the weights are near the bottom, or follow the note below on modern clocks.  

When handling brass parts, soft cotton gloves or cloth should be used.  The pendulum should be removed and packed with soft padding in a sturdy box.  

Remove the weights, noting their positions, left, center and right.  If they are not labeled, I identify them using tape or a Sharpie marker on the bottom of the weight.  If the clock has a cable driven movement, the cables should have tension on them while and after removing the weights so the cables do not become tangled on the cable drums.  Most modern production clocks have cable retainers on the drums to eliminate the tangling.  If the cable driven movements have foam blocks supplied with them, they can be used to wedge the pulleys by winding the cables to the top.  When the clock is set up again, the weights are hung and when the pulleys have descended a few inches the blocks can be removed.  With either the chain or cable types a combination of heavy string and large rubber bands can be used to tie the ends of the chains together (also the pulleys on the cable driven type).  A screw or cup hook can be installed on the inside of the case at the door bottom.  Connect the combination string and/or rubber bands to the hook.  This secures the cables or chains.  

To secure the chime rods, foam or soft packing should be pushed up in between the chime rods and secured with rubber bands or tie-wraps.  This keeps the chime rods from vibrating and breaking while transporting the clock.  There are shipping aids made from cardboard that have holes punched in which to insert the chime rods.  The cardboard is then pushed about halfway up the rods to secure them.  The hanger (the strap that the pendulum hung on) should be secured to keep it from swinging or falling off.  I use blue painter's tape to lightly tape it to the back of the movement plate.  The chime and strike hammers should be held with rubber bands to keep them from bouncing around.

On curio clocks, the glass shelves should be removed and packed in a padded container.  Any side panels be secured to keeping them from falling out.  Doors should be secured or locked.  Any loose parts such as finials at the top of the clock, door keys, winding keys, instructions, etc, should be packed in a box and labeled.  Most modern clocks can be transported on their backs if put on a flat padded surface.

I think that about gets it.  If you have any further questions, get back with me.  Again I apologize for the delay in my answer.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama