Expert: William J Perkins - 7/27/2010

Question
I have a 3 weight cuckoo clock that needs winding about once per week.  I have had this clock for around 6 years.  In the past year, it gets harder and harder to pull one of the chains, even when I am lifting most of the weight.  Any idea what I need to do?  I am concerned the chain/weight may stop working all together.

thanks for any advice you can give.

Answer
I urge that you have this clock inspected by a clock repair person.  I suspect there is something wrong with one of the rachet gears.  What you describe indicates the onset of excessive wear, perhaps caused by foreign or loose parts.  What ever it is, it needs to be attended to, before serious damage sets in.  Regards WJP