Expert: Michael Radi - 3/1/2009

Question
QUESTION: When my Ridgeway grandfather clock was moved, four of the chime rods fell out.  I have the rods and see where they belong, but not sure how to put them back into the assembly.  Seems like there are screw-like devices on top of the chime rod assembly to hold each rod, but they don't seem to want to turn like a screw, so not sure if this is how to reattach the chime rods.

Thank you for any assistance you can provide

ANSWER: The chime rods broke off at the screw. You can't put them back together. The rods come with the screw attached to them. They are pounded in very tightly at the factory. I know a lot of people who have tried to put them back together but they always sound dead.
You can purchase new rods, they need to be the same diameter and length. The shorter the rod, the higher the pitch.
If you are interested in purchasing new rods you can tell me the length and diameter and I'll see if I can find them for you.
Also, the screws in the block may be hard to remove. If they don't come out easily you can apply heat to the chime block with a butane torch. This usually does the trick.
Michael

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your quick response.  Just a quick follow-up question.  Would it make more sense just to replace the entire chime rod assembly; seems to be bolted to the back of the clock with 4 bolts.

Thanks again for your quick and informative response.

Answer
Yes, if you can find the correct replacement set, it is easier and probably less expensive to replace the entire block with the rods already installed.
The first thing to do is identify your clock movement. Can you give me all of the markings stamped on the back of the clock movement?
Here is a link to a page of chime blocks:
https://www.blackforestimports.com/ItemDetail.asp?varImageName=38&subcat1=38&cat=PARTS%20_%20ACCESSORIES&subcat=Hermle%20Parts&arrPages=37,38
If you find yours I can get a price for you.
Michael