Expert: Michael Radi - 12/8/2011

Question
Hermle Westminster Chime Clock Movement 351-020/38cm
We now have "custody" of a clock with this movement. My husband is an engineer and has been successful at getting other clocks from my father to work.  The problem with this one is the chime mechanism is working but the hammers are not falling but rather drifting down slowly, so the clock won't chime. the linkage lever can be lifted and released manually but they still fall slowly. The clock has been beautifully kept and the works are shining, like new.  The clock was made in the 80s, however. Does this clock require cleaning or oiling? My husband keeps mumbling "gummy".  These clocks are a legacy from my dad and we want to maintain them and enjoy them as the gift they are.  We appreciate your guidance.

Answer
I have performed this repair myself. The problem is in the pivot points of the hammer assembly. Each hammer wire is attached to a hub. Those hubs have a hole and there is a steel rod going through the hubs. the hubs are all lined up next to each other. This pivot point needs to be cleaned and I like to lubricate it.
You can't get success by simply oiling from the outside. The assembly needs to be taken apart. It's not a big job, but there are a few parts to deal with. First remove the movement from the case. Let me know if you need information on how to do this.
There are two rectangular plates that hold the hammer assembly together. there will be two or three screws or nuts that you remove to take this plate off. I think the plate on the back comes off easily. You have to remove the hammer hubs from that steel rod that they are on. There should be a small "C" clip on the end of that steel rod. Remove this clip and don't loose it. Take the hammer hubs off the rod, wipe the rod down, lubricate it withe light oil. Clean out the hubs and/or put a small amount of oil in each hub.
Put the assembly back together and test it before putting the movement back in the clock.