Expert: John Newman - 3/27/2010

Question
I recently inherited a Ridgeway grandfather clock (from my grandfather's estate) and I have a problem with the clock stopping after 10 - 15 minutes of starting it (manually swinging the pendulum).  As the clock runs, it keeps time reasonably and the chimes work very nicely.  The only problem is the pendulum stopping after a short while.  I am unsure as to how long it has been since it was serviced last.

I was thinking that it might just need cleaning, oiling and tuning.  If so, is this something that I could do myself (I am a tinkerer and enjoy repairing all kinds of things around my home)?  If so, how would you recommend going about this?  If you think that the problem may lie somewhere else, please let me know.

The inside of the clock (as well as the documents that came with the clock) lists the following information:

Dial - Q1
Model - 154
Movement - HL
Finish - MHG4
Serial - 112678

Thank You,
Glenn Otto

P.S.  If you need pictures, please feel free to let me know.

Answer
Glenn, it's difficult to determine the problem with a clock if we don't have any history on what has happened since the last it was running properly.  I will copy a list of steps to check some things out.  Do this and then get back with me if it still won't run.



THE FIRST LEVEL IS THE SETUP.  

If a clock movement 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 can give you instructions for that.  I will need the model of the movement.  This can usually be determined by all the information found on the back plate of the movement.  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

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.  

If you have any further questions, get back with me.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama