Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 8/12/2010

Question
QUESTION: We have a Grandmother clock we purchased in Germany (1986) and I believe the hour spring was accidently wound too tight. There are 3 springs that need to be wound every 7 days. How do I "un-stick" the hour spring? I have never tried to work on this or any type clock.

ANSWER: not wound too tight-

this is the left spring? might not be wound at all, try the other direction with the key--

the quarter chimes work fine???  

clock needs service or overhaul at it's age

normally the quarter chimes quit first and they initiate the hour strike.

call a pro

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: all three springs turn clock-wise for winding... quarter chimes work perfect except the hour

Answer
the spring is not stuck but the gears are or the hammer set that is supposed to hit is not working right -- might be gummy so the hammers get lifted on the hour but do not drop hard or fast enough to make a sound hitting the chime rods

unless you plan to take it apart to see what is up --call or take it to a pro. no quick external fix--sorry.