Expert: William J Perkins - 7/10/2009

Question
QUESTION: We recently bought a Seth Thomas grandfather clock, Model 4483D, Movement A415-013.  The weights and pendulum were removed and was transported on its back for about 90 miles.  Once we figured out that the two heaviest weights go on the left and center, and the lightest one goes on the right, the clock began chiming.  The problem is that although the displayed time agrees very well with the real time, the chiming occurs about 8 minutes late.  If I adjust the nut on the minute had so it agrees with the time it should show when chiming, then it doesn't agree with the real time.  How do I fix this?

ANSWER: There is something wrong with the information you provided.  You should have two weights of 4.7 lbs each and one of 6.6 lbs.  The heaviest (6.6lbs) should always hang on your right as you face the clock.  The chime train, the one on your right as you face the clock, must always start from a dead stop.  Since this is the hardest task performed by the movement it requires the heaviest weight.
Also confusing is your statement that apparently the time train and strike train are performing correctly.  The time train keeps good time and the strike train goes off on time.  Only the chime train is tardy.  I don't know how that is possible because the time train cocks and releases the chime train at preset intervals.  The chime train in turn cocks and releases the strike train, only after performing the chime.  The strike should never be able to preform before the chime melody has played.
To help me understand this problem please copy down and send me ALL the information you can find stamped upon the movements brass backplate.  With that data I can identify the precise movement involved and be better able to follow your explained problem and help you resolve it.  I do not believe the problem to be serious.  Frankly I believe it to be more a communications problem rather than a mechanical one.  Please send the requested information and any correction you deem appropriate to my understanding of the problem.  Regards WJP

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

QUESTION: As requested, here is the information on the movements brass backplate.
Made in USA
for Seth Thamos
A timely ????? Co.
8506
A415-013

The weights you indicated we should have are different.  The left weight is 7.4 lbs. and the center and right side are 10 lbs each.

Rick Latsch

Answer
Apparently excessive weight is being substituted for a good state of repair.  The specifications for your movement clearly call for 5.7 lbs to power both the strike and the time trains with a 9.9 lb weight for the chime train.  I urge that you get this clock serviced and eliminate this bad weight distribution factor before it causes ruination of the movement.  Under no circumstances should any grandfather clock be operated with the heaviest weight in the center.  I do hope you get this attended to before it is to late.  This truely concerns me.  Sincerely WJP