Expert: William J Perkins - 2/27/2010

Question
The clock TT weight does not drop causing the pendulum to slow and stop. The weight was wound up so that the pulley is above the wooden divider on the door. The cable does not seem to be frayed or jammed. I cannot find the ratchet mechanism on the middle drum(to lower it, if that would help). While the pendulum is moving the hands move and the chimes work. If you believe the high weight could be causing the problem, a schematic of the drum and ratchet might help me or please suggest an alternate solution.
Thank you.

Answer
Sorry I have no schematics for Hershede movements.  You state you have pulled the pulley up into the seat board.  To correct this you obviously must cause the pulley and weight to drop.  The proper way to cause this action is to trip the ratchet.  Since you cannot find the ratchet I suggest you hang a bit more weight to the bottom of the weight shell.  Try about 4 ounces and if that don't do the job add more weights until you reach half a pound, don't go beyond that addition.  If their is nothing else wrong with the clock that should do it, if not the problem is more complex and you should call in a qualified clock repair person to make corrections.  Regards WJP