Expert: William J Perkins - 6/13/2007

Question
QUESTION: Our wall clock chimes 12 at 4 and then correctly at 5 and at 6 it chimes 10, correctly the rest of the time.  What can I do?

ANSWER: I would guess there is a problem with the time works of your clock, that is the gears, levers etc., that reside on the outside of your clocks frontplate.  Perhaps there is a lift, or count mechenism malfunctioning.  If you could describe and identify your clock, I might be able to make some suggestions.  Regards WJP

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

QUESTION: This is a 31-day  keywound wall clock for which we paid $109 in 2005.  There is no brand name on it.  The operating insructions were printed in Korea.This is all I know.  Thanks.  Don

Answer
The inability to identify your clocks movement deprives me of the most essential tool.  Not being able to visualize how the clock is set up.  I suspect my original prognosis is correct, to confirm this I would need to visualize the workings.  The best I can do is to refer you to a manual that would most likely guide you to a proper solution.  The title is "The Clock Repair Primer" by Philip E Balcom.
I would refer you to chapter 9, Striking Movements.  This book is an excellent one that I commend to all clock owners
who wish to understand how their clock works and the hows of basic clock care.  If you cannot find, or do not wish to acquire this book provide me with a self addressed, postage paid envelope and I will remit to you copies of the appropriate pages for your perusal.  My mailing address is; William J Perkins, 1502 Johnson Rd., Centralia, Wa., 98531.  Sorry but this is the best I can do for you, I simply have to, in one way or another, see the problem.  Regards WJP