Expert: Martin Meyer - 7/5/2007

Question
I was given a Sligh Wall Clock, Model 0719-1-SH and one of the chime rods broke off the chime bar.  If I sound like I don't know what I'm talking about, I really don't.  There is a metal bar with about six little metal rods sticking out of it and one of them has broken off.  I would like to either replace the entire unit or just the one rod. Any help?
Thanks
Ralph

Answer
Hi Ralph,
    I know exactly what you're talking about. Usually the chime block has a row of 4, 5 or 8 rods. The rods are tuned sets, and are almost impossible to unscrew from the block. The most reasonable option is to replace the entire block assembly with rods.
    The problem is that Sligh is no longer manufacturing clocks, and support for parts is nearly nonexistent. The only referral I have is bobsclocks@sbcglobal.net. I don't know the current status of this link, but you can try it.
    Your other option is to buy a generic chime block assembly from a clock materials house. I would recommend Timesavers.com. Search for chime units. There are pictures of every unit; try to find one that is as identical as possible to the one you have. There is not much room for error. Pay attention to both the shape of the block and the length of the chime rods, as well as the orientation of the rods (vertical, slanted, etc.). If you're lucky, the chime block will fit onto the original holes in the back of the clock case; otherwise, you might have to drill new holes.
    Make very sure that the chime hammers on the clock line up correctly with the new chime rods. The hammers should hit the rods close to the top of the rods. You will have to make minor adjustments by bending the chime hammer wires very slightly to line up with the rods, with a clearance of 1/8th to 1/16th of an inch between the hammer tip and the rod.
    Thanks for your question.   Martin