Expert: William J Perkins - 12/23/2009

Question
Our Sligh wall clock chime is 4 minutes off.  That is, it chimes at say 3:04, 3:19, 3:34 and 3:49.  Can it be repaired by homeowner or will it need to go to the shop.  Thanks.

Answer
This is a rather simple repair that I feel is well with in the range of most clock owner's capabilities.  First identify the time deficiency between when the clock struck and the actual time.  Stop the clock by arresting the pendulum.  Take the nut that is holding the minute hand to its post off.  Remove the minute hand by simply pulling it straight back towards you.  Turn the hand over.  You will note that the square hole that hold the hand in position on its shaft is in the form of a friction fit bushing.  Using a pliers rotate the bushing sufficiently to make it fir on the shaft at the proper position.  The difference between the actual time and the time displayed at its last strike.  Replace the hand and the hand nut, set to the correct time.  Start the clock.  You have synchronized the time to the strike.  It might take you a couple of times to get it right, but you will.  Regards WJP