Expert: Martin Meyer - 7/29/2007

Question
I bought a grandmother clock and the antique store. The movement is a Emperor. It was purchased in March of 1984. The numbers on the back of the movement are 451-050H. The pedulum is 94cm. The clock ticks but the chimes won't work. How diffucult is it to clean the movement. I know nothing about it. Thanks Bob A.

Answer
Hi Bob,
    Properly cleaning the movement is a very major operation requiring disassembling the plates of the movement and removing all the gears and other parts. Reassembling and adjusting is a job that requires a significant amount of experience.
    Some hobbyists and a few clock repairers clean the clock (either in a cleaning machine or by hand) without disassembly. This is a practice which is abhorrent to clock professionals and considered unworkmanlike. It is simply not effective, and does not allow for bearing repairs which are nearly always essential.
    I would recommend lubricating the clock with clock oil ONLY. Instructions and oiling points are available on the web. Never use spray lubricant!
    If this doesn't solve your chime problems, the  movement is probably worn out and should be replaced. You can have this done by a professional clock repairer or, if you are mechanically adept, you may be able to do this yourself. Replacements of your exact make and model of movement are available.
    Thanks for your question.   Martin