Expert: William J Perkins - 6/8/2007

Question
I moved the weights on our clock and I think I moved them up too close? The chimes stopped and only the middle weight moves down. Is that the problem and do I have to adjust the chain? I usually hold the weights up and pull the chain down to move the weights. I usually move the weights up once a week. My wife said her father didn't move the weights weekly. Is there a set time or way to move the weights? Do the align a certain way or is there supposed to be a procedure to moving the weights? We got the clock when her father passed away. I've never been around this type of clock so I don't know a lot about them.  

Answer
Perhaps you have hung the weights in the wrong order.  As you face the clock the heaviest weight hangs on the right, the chime train, the other two weights are either the same or very close in weight, so, it makes no difference which one goes center or left.  It is essential that the chime train be favored with the heaviest weight, it has the hardest job.  
I recommend the owner select a day and hour to each week wind the clock by simply pulling the chains, gently, to within three inches of the seat board. (that is the board the clocks movement sits upon.  As a normal routine I install stop rings to each chain located 3 inches from the weight hook, this prevents the weights being up to close to the movement.  I trust this information is an adequate response to your question.  Regards WJP