Expert: William J Perkins - 4/24/2010

Question
I have tried moving the clock case slightly right and left and using shimmies but the pendulum stops swinging consistently after 3 1/2 minutes so I'm not making any progress.  What should I try next.  The clock was moved recently and the right chain was retheaded.  Thank you.

Answer
Your clock is most likely "out of beat".  To correct grasp the very bottom of the pendulum rod, below the pendulum nut.  While thus holding, pull straight down with a force of about 1/2 lb and move the pendulum back and forth in an arch of about 4 inches.  Release at dead center and gently start the clock.  In all likelihood, it will now be "in beat".  If this does not work open the back of the case to gain visual access to the movement.  You will note there is data stamped upon the clock movements brass backplate, copy ALL that information down and send it to me.  This information will identify, to me, the exact movement involved, thus allowing me to analyze the problem.  Regards WJP