Expert: William J Perkins - 3/30/2010

Question
My aunt gave me her grandfather clock that has not worked for some time, my uncle pulled the chains all the way down for the chimes and now they do not work. we do however get the actual closk to work and the weight for that part and keeps very good time. now we are at a loss for the two outer weights we can not get them to move at all and the chimes will not work at all. How do we correct this problem if at all? Thank you for your time.

Answer
Apparently the weights are jammed against the seat board.  To relieve this condition try adding more weight to the weights on your right and on the left.  Sometime you can effectively accomplish this by putting the extra weight in a sock and tying it to the bottom of the weight shell.  As to the amount of weight start with about 4oz and work up to about 12oz.  If this doesn't work you best have the problem resolved by a qualified clock repair person.  I wish you luck.  Regards WJP