Expert: William J Perkins - 5/17/2009

Question
I found a Grandfather (or mother) clock in an antique store and took it home and refinished it. It turned out AWESOME!! I contacted the Illionois Clock Co and bought a URGOS 32/1. I installed all new parts with movement (weights chains and pedulum). My problem is the time train wont run, all chimes work on both sides but will NOT run time train. If I apply a little pressure with my hand on the time train weight it will continue. But as soon as I let go it stops. I have SOOOOOO much invested PLEASE HELP!! Also my weights were marked on bottom and I have them installed correctly.

Answer
First disregard the markings on your weights.  Use the simple rule that as you face the clock, the heaviest weight hangs to your left, that is a must.  Often times the wrong weight is inserted into the marked shells.  This is a possible solution, more likely, your clock is out of beat.  To determine, start the clock and listen.  During the short time it is running is the sound an even tick tick.  If not this simple test confirms the clock is not in beat.  Your clock movement should be fitted with an automatic beat regulator.  However if the movement had an overlong shelf life that feature could be gummed up due to coagulation of lubricant caused by lack of activity.  The best way to correct this cause is to have the clock cleaned and fresh lubricant installed.  There are two other ways that might work  1).  Temporarily remove all the weights, hang the heaviest weight in the center.  Start the clock in motion if it runs, let it do so for a twelve hour period.  That should be adequate to loosen the lubricant.  If this works rehang the weights in their proper positions.  If the clock still does preform the probability for having the clock cleaned and lubricated will have been established.  2).  Leave the weights in their correct positions.  Grasp the rating screw, (the screw that projects though the bottom of the pendulum bob) pull straight down with a force of about 1 pound, while pulling down move the pendulum back in forth in an arc of about 3 inches.  This will cause the escapement anchor to equalize to the escape wheel, thereby bringing the clock into beat.  Again if this does not work the need for cleaning and lubricating is established.  I trust this will set you upon the route to solution.  Regards WJP