Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 2/19/2009

Question
Hi,
We purchased a Black Forest cuckoo clock from an estate sale, and when we got it home found out that one of the chains was off the wheel.(Right side chain.)
Is there a easy way to free the chain? I don't want to pry around in there and mar something up. The chain appears to be under another smaller gear that's under the one it goes on.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

Answer
remove the hook from the end of the chain - by cutting a link or twisting open a link with pliers

remove the chain by pulling on the other end

remove the back of the clock

turn the clock upside down and feed the formerly hooked end of the chain through the outboard hole in the case bottom and 1/3 over the outboard side of the chain wheel and with a thin screwdriver or yu finger, index the chain wheel ratchet to pull the chain up  and over the chain wheel and upright the clock and continue till the chain end exits the other hole in the bottom of the clock case.

with pliers open the end links and swap the ring with the end that formerly had the hook