Expert: John Newman - 11/1/2010

Question
I recently inherited a King Arthur Grandfather Clock. I have
it set up, instructions were included. My problem is keeping
it running, no where in the instructions does it tell us
where to set the pendulum. I've tried turning it up
completely and changing a full turn when it stops.Very
tedious and time consuming. Just can't seem to find the
correct "spot". Can you offer any help? Thank you.  

Answer
Darlena, I'm sorry about the delay in my answer, but I was out of pocket with my laptop and my Internet access was sketchy.  I had answered your question, but it did not go through.

First, was the clock running before it was moved?  Sometimes moving can upset some adjustments, which can usually be corrected.  I'm not sure exactly how the instructions are worded, but there could have been a misinterpretation because the rating nut at the bottom of the pendulum is adjusted to make the clock run slower or faster AFTER the clock is running reliably.  It has nothing to do with making it run or not.  So, after the clock is running reliably again, it will have to be rated (timed) again.  But first let's get it running.  I am going to copy a set of my instructions to you and you can check some things.  You will see that the clock has to be stable, the weights have to be hung in the correct position and the pendulum hanging arrangement has to be correct.  If, after following the instructions, it still doesn't run, I will need you to send me the model number of the clock movement.  My shop email address is below.  The model information can be found on the back plate of the movement itself.  With that I can send you a photo of the way the suspension and pendulum assembly should be.  However, if you can send me a clear digital photo of the complete back of the movement, including the pendulum hanging, I can tell you if it is hung correctly.  As King Arthur has been out of business for quite a while, I don't believe your clock has the auto beat function.


THE FIRST LEVEL IS THE SETUP.  

For Floor Clocks   If the clock is in operating condition but not working, I would check the stability of the clock in that it doesn't rock or wobble on the floor.  It should be relatively level.  The level is not critical, as setting the beat (below) will correct for this.  

Next, verify that the weights are hung correctly.  On most clocks the weights vary in weight.  The general rule is that if two weights are equal, the third weight, if it is heavier, goes on the right side (as you face the clock).  If the third weight is lighter, it goes on the left.

Is the pendulum hanging configuration correct?  This means that the suspension spring, hanger, verge and pendulum are all connected properly with nothing broken, especially the suspension spring.  When the pendulum swings, it should be "in beat", meaning that when the pendulum swings you hear an even tick....tock....tick....tock.  If it is uneven, like tick..tock......tick..tock, the clock will probably stop.  Most later model movements have an "auto-beat" mechanism.  The beat can be set by holding the pendulum over to one side next to the case and releasing it.  It will automatically correct itself.  If it does not have this feature, the escapement crutch will have to be slipped manually.  If required, I would need a good description of the verge and hanger mechanism or a photo of the back of the movement to give you instructions for that.  Also check to see if the hands are catching on each other or the dial.  Look at the chime and strike hammers to see if they are all in alignment at the rest position.  Sometimes jammed hammers or the drive mechanisms will stall the clock.


THE SECOND LEVEL INCLUDES MAINTENANCE

Usually, the first symptom of a clock failing is that the chime and/or strike mechanisms slow down and then fail altogether.  At this point the clock needs to be serviced.  This includes cleaning, inspecting, oiling and adjusting.  In the inspection, the movement is checked for adjustments, broken or worn parts.  If there are any broken or worn parts, we go to the third level. If all parts are okay, a good clock oil and grease is used.  In most cases the movement should be removed from the case to have access to all the lubrication points.  Clock lubricants can be bought from clock suppliers.  Using lubricants for other applications can cause problems, as some lubricants are not compatible with others.  This even applies to different clock oils.  After lubricating, the operation is checked for final adjustments.  I recommend maintenance be performed every 7 to 10 years.


THE THIRD LEVEL IS REPAIR.

This requires that the movement be broken down and all parts inspected and repaired or replaced, and then reassembled lubricated, adjusted and tested.  I do not recommend this except by an experienced clockmaker.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

klokdok@juno.com

(Due to the number of Allexperts questions and
the workload I have at my clock shop, I regret
that I cannot answer personal email questions on a timely basis
other than Allexperts follow ups.)