Expert: William J Perkins - 1/2/2010

Question
1)  The chimes are loud.  I have used the control to turn them off but would rather reduce to volume.  Is there some way to soften or quiet the volume on this clock.  

2)  I have been trying to adjust the rate of movement of the hands by screwing the piece at the bottom of the pendulum up and down.  I have also noticed a horizontal bar above the pendulum bob that has screw adjustments on each end.  Can this be used to adjust how fast or slow the pendulum swings also, or should one or the other be used exclusively.

Thank you for the help

Answer
There are several ways you might try to diminish the volume of your clocks chimes.  Exchange the hammer heads with ones with softer pads.  Bend the hammers very slightly away from the chime rods.

You regulate the speed of the clock shortening and lengthening of the pendulum.  This is done by turning the rating nut at the bottom of the pendulum.  If that adjustment does not do the job, the clock, most likely needs cleaning.

Regards WJP