Expert: Michael Radi - 11/16/2010

Question
The left and right weights are not moving down, consequently no chiming.
How do I release these weights. Can I remove the weighs and pull on the
chaims?

Answer
Hi Rosalie,
There is an assembly inside the gears called a click that will only allow the gear to turn in one direction. A clock repair person will know where it is but it is not always easy to reach. Sometimes the movement has to be removed from the case to get to it. That is the only way to let the weights down without running the clock.
You are right, when the clock does not chime the outside weights will not move down. The problem is inside the movement rather than in the weights.
In this situation the first thing to do is oil the clock movement. Often this is enough to get the clock chiming again.
Here is a link to my youtube video on clock oiling:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9YrBcKiHA4

Michael