Expert: William J Perkins - 3/9/2009

Question
I have a Schatz 8-day cuckoo clock that seems to stop every 1/2 hr before the cuckoo is ready to come out.  Any idea what the problem is?  I know the drive side for the cuckoo mechanism is tired because it takes some extra weight to get it to go but would that affect the "time" side of the clock?

Answer
The fact the clock runs when extra weight is added tells me there is a friction problem.  The most likely solution is having the clock cleaned and lubricated.  Use of extra weight, while a temporary solution, is very harmful to the clock, causing very rapid wear that will soon produce a need to replace the movement.  Often time the bill for a new movement is less than the cost for cleaning, adjusting etc.  Examine your options very carefully.  Regards WJP