Expert: William J Perkins - 12/5/2007

Question
My husband went to an auction a couple of years ago and came home with a new grandfather clock.  As much as I've always wanted one, I was not thrilled with the clock as it looks a bit cheap to me.  Regardless of my dissatisfaction, I have gotten multiple compliments on it.
The chimes have always sound "clangy" to me, not melodious.  In the past few months the sound seems to be getting more clangy, and I am ready to get rid of the clock, even though I've become accustomed to its looks.  Is it possible to salvage the clock by replacing the rods, and/or whatever else is needed to give it a nice chime?  If so, is it worth it to replace these items in a less than high quality clock?

Thank you for your advice.

Answer
One of my lasting memories of childhood was lying in front of my Granddaddies clock waiting for it to chime, a sound I still hear from 82 years ago.
But of course you wish your clock to sound well.  I suspect your clock might need a variety of adjustments that would allow him to do his job in a credible manner.  Before I venture any remedial prospects I would like to know more about your clock.  To provide the information needed you will have to open the back of the case, or what ever alternative, so that you can see the clock movements back plate.  On that plate you will find a lot of information stamped.  Copy it all down and send it to me.  With that information the prospects are very good that we can direct a course of action that will result in your old boy playing music you will love.  Also helpful would be a description of your clock.  It's name, weight driven, how many weights, cable or chain.  What melodie(s) it is supposed to play etc?  I await your response, regards WJP