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Clocks, Watches/Advice for clock repair - schmeckenbecher

Expert: William J Perkins - 10/7/2010

Question

I inherited a German 74 Schmeckenbecher 261-030A (35 cm/88.2) pendulum wall clock and it worked perfectly for years (I am enclosing pictures). Recently, I pulled up the weights as usual, but the left one got stuck and it doesn't come down and consequently it does not chime either.
The clock use to give the time every hour with the chime, and also every half an hour with a single sound.
Fortunately the clock is working well except for the stuck weight and don't sound anymore.
Can you please advise me how do I do to make the weight drop down again?

Answer
I suspect the chain has jumped the track from the ratchet wheel or the chain has twisted, or, possibly a chain link has opened up. Short of taking the clock to a clock repair person, I suggest the following: Grasp the offending chain and pull down while turning the minute hand through a strike position. This is to see if you can force the chain free by making the clock strike. That failing I'm afraid the movement will have to be removed so that you can access the problem area, i.e., the chain and allied ratchet. I suggest you have this done by a qualified clock repair person. If, however, you feel confident in doing this yourself I will attempt to describe what you should look for and what you might do to correct. Should you wish to proceed, let me know, Regards WJP