How do you wind a grandfather clock with weights?
- Open the front door of your grandfather clock. This gives you access to the chains and weights.
- Grasp the center of the train end of the time chain. The train end is the one without the weight.
- Pull the train end of the chain down slowly.
- Wind the remaining two chains in exactly the same way as the first.
How to adjust and regulatethe time of your grandfather clock?
- Set the clock to the correct time and allow it to run for 24 hrs.
- By example let's say the clock is 5 minutes slow in 24 hrs.
- Make a note that the clock is 5 minutes slow and raise the pendulm to make the clock run faster by turning the nut on the pendulum to the right ...
How much does a grandfather clock weigh?
If crews fall short of the maximum weight, they’re permitted to add ballast to the sled directly but not the competitors themselves. So how much does the sled actually weigh? Around 400 pounds. A two-person sled weighs in at around 375 pounds while the ...
How to fix grandfather clock movements?
- Remove the bonnet (A) to expose the clock movement.
- Remove the weights (J) from the cables or chains.
- Remove the pendulum (D) by carefully feeding the top portion of the pendulum rod (suspension spring) down through the oblong loop at the lower portion of the crutch (B).
How to maintain a grandfather clock?
Thoroughly Clean a Grandfather Clock in 8 Steps
- Remove the Clock. If you are comfortable with how your grandfather clock fits together and if it will help in a thorough cleaning exercise remove the pendulum ...
- Clean the Back. Move the clock case away from the wall to clean the back. ...
- Cleaning the Glass Panels. ...
- Cleaning the Woodwork. ...
- Weights and Pendulum. ...
- Batons and Face. ...
- Replace the Clock. ...
How do you wind a 3 weight grandfather clock?
How to Wind a Chain-Driven Grandfather ClockOpen the front door of your grandfather clock. This gives you access to the chains and weights. ... Grasp the center of the train end of the time chain. ... Pull the train end of the chain down slowly. ... Wind the remaining two chains in exactly the same way as the first.
How do you set a grandfather clock with weights?
1:473:25Grandfather Clock Quick Setup - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSet the clock by moving the minute-hand. Counterclockwise. Then give the pendulum a gentle but bigMoreSet the clock by moving the minute-hand. Counterclockwise. Then give the pendulum a gentle but big swing and don't be alarmed if it gently bumps into the glass. The clock needs to be level.
Should the weights on a grandfather clock drop evenly?
Yes, the order is critical for proper function. On 99% of floor clocks (grandfather/grandmother) with three weights, the heavier weight goes on the right-hand chain hook or pulley as you are FACING the clock.
What do the three weights on a grandfather clock do?
The three weights provide power to the hour strike (left weight), time (center weight), and chime melody (right weight). Without these weights, the Grandfather Clock would not operate. Each weight is different and must be properly hung from the movement (left, center, right) to ensure proper operation.
How do you wind a clock with weights?
To wind, simply pull down on the chain. As you pull the chain down you should see the weight rise. When fully wound, the weight should hit the underneath of the "seat-board" and prevent you from winding anymore. Repeat this process for each of the weight chains.
How do you slow down a Grandfather Clock?
The pendulum disk is moved up or down by turning the adjustment nut. To slow the Grandfather Clock down, move the pendulum disk down by turning the adjustment nut to the left. To speed the Grandfather Clock up, move the pendulum disk up by turning the adjustment nut to the right.Oct 8, 2010
Where does the heavier weight go on a grandfather clock?
The heaviest weight is "R," the next heaviest is "C" and the lightest is "L." Open the door to the clock. Grab the chain on the left-hand side. It has a small brass plate with a hole in it attached to one end.Sep 26, 2017
Why goes the middle weight go down ahead of the others on my grandfather clock?
If the clock is running but not chiming, then only the center weight will drop. Typically, what we find is that the grandfather clock has not been serviced and the oil has dried up in the movement and therefore the chiming side of the clock is hung up, or worst, worn out.
How much do grandfather clocks weigh?
Grandfather Clocks weigh anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds and require special attention when moving them from one place to another.Jun 13, 2018
How do you clean the weights on a grandfather clock?
Place a magnet on the weight. ... Clean the weight with a solution of 2 cups of warm water and 2 tablespoons of mild dishwashing soap. ... Mix 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and a pinch of salt or baking soda into a paste. ... Rinse the weight in warm water until the paste is completely cleared.More items...
Why do some grandfather clocks have two weights?
The left weight provides power for the hour strike, the middle weight provides power for the clock's pendulum and general timekeeping functions, while the right weight provides power for the quarter-hour chime sequences.
What does each weight do on a grandfather clock?
Each weight provides the motive power necessary to operate the time, chime and strike trains of your grandfather clock. The weights simply store the energy that you exert when you either pull the chain or crank the lever, that raises up the weights. what to do if you over wind a clock?
How much is a grandfather clock worth?
The rarest grandfather clocks, such as those made during the aforementioned Golden Age, can be worth as much as $100,000.
How to take care of a mechanical clock?
Taking care of your mechanical clock Turn the key slowly and just a half turn at a time. Wind it up until it stops. Do not try to force it to wind any further. Even though it is impossible to over-wind your clock, it is also not necessary to wind it until the last possible click of the ratchet.
How to wind a grandfather clock?
Pull the train end of the chain down slowly. This pulls the weight up and winds the chain-driven grandfather clock. Continue pulling the chain down until the top of the weight is 1 inch below the bottom of the clock face board.
How to wind a chain driven grandfather clock?
By Kenneth Crawford. ABOUT THE AUTHOR. Kenneth Crawford. Kenneth Crawford is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience. His work has appeared in both print and online publications, including "The American Chronicle.".
How often do grandfather clocks need to be winded?
Grandfather clocks require winding once a week. Grandfather clocks add a certain warmth to a home that few other pieces can match. Chain-driven grandfather clocks have three chains, with a weight on one end of each chain. Each chain is responsible for a particular function of the clock.
How to move grandfather clock?
Move the base of the clock until you hear an even beat. Gently and slightly move your grandfather clock by holding the base of the clock with two hands. Often a difference of a few millimeters will level your clock and even out the beat of the pendulum.
How to set the correct time on a grandfather clock?
In order to set the correct time and pendulum beat of a grandfather clock, make sure that it is on level ground. Then, carefully adjust the hands until they show the right time and set the pendulum swinging. Make sure that the pendulum continues to swing freely and evenly and the hands show the correct time.
How to slow down a pendulum?
Tighten or loosen the pendulum if the clock is gaining or losing time. At the bottom of the pendulum is a bob with a small nut underneath. Turn the nut to the right very slightly to speed up the clock. Turn the nut to the left to slow the clock down.
How to stop a clock from touching?
If they are touching something, hold the hand of the clock with two fingers near the center. Use your other hand or a needle-nose plier to gently pull it away from whatever it is touching.
How to keep grandfather clock accurate?
1. Place your clock on a level surface. Grandfather clocks rely on gravity to keep accurate time. If your clock is on a surface that tilts it in one direction, this will throw off the timekeeping mechanisms. Try adjusting your carpet or bringing the clock away from the wall.
How to set the clock back without playing the melody?
In order to set the time without playing the melody, move the minute hand counterclockwise. Winding the minute hand 1 full rotation counterclockwise will set the clock back by 1 hour. Do not move the hour hand. Use the time on your cell phone for the most accurate time reading.
How to wind a clock?
1. Wind your clock and start the pendulum. In order to wind your clock, determine if your clock is crank-wound or chain-wound. Look at the face of your clock. If there are 1-3 small holes, these are winding points for a crank. Insert the crank and wind either clockwise or counterclockwise, whichever feels most smooth.
How many weights are in a grandfather clock?
Three weights and a pendulum control the timing of the grandfather clock. There are times, however, when the pendulum and weights don't operate properly, and the clock stops. Adjusting the weights is not an easy job, but it can be done if you have the patience.
How long can a grandfather clock last?
Grandfather clocks require little maintenance. Dust and dry coils affect the timekeeping, so they should be cleaned. However, they can go 10 years without you having to call for a clock specialist.
How to let weights down on a clock?
If you need the weights lowered immediately, advance the minute hand, wait for the chime and continue until the weights are at the bottom of the case.
What is the sound of a grandfather clock?
The sound of a grandfather clock chiming is just one of the beautiful aspects of owning such a cherished piece of history. Originally known as a longcase clock, the grandfather clock was the first timekeeper with a small-enough mechanism to make it the appropriate size for a private residence. Originally a sign of wealth since ...
What are the three weights on a clock?
The three weights inside the cabinet of your clock and behind the pendulum are its engine, and they are tasked with specific jobs. The left weight powers the hour and the number of chimes to coordinate with the hour. The middle weight powers the pendulum, and the right weight powers the melody you hear. At the base of each weight should be an "L," ...
How many weights does a grandfather clock have?
Grandfather Clock Weights. Most modern grandfather clocks will use three weights where each of the three have their own function. The weights are filled with cast iron within a brass casing and are quite heavy. Each weighs differently for the job at task. It takes a week for the weights to reach the bottom of the clock which means it is time ...
How to keep a clock from discoloring?
Use a cloth or glove and pull each of the free ends of the chain straight down and it’s corresponding weight will rise to the top of the clock. The cloth or glove will help keep the weights and chains from discoloring over time.
How long does it take for a cast iron clock to reach the bottom?
The weights are filled with cast iron within a brass casing and are quite heavy. Each weighs differently for the job at task. It takes a week for the weights to reach the bottom of the clock which means it is time for them to be wound back to the top so they may travel back down running the clock for another week.
Can you lift weights while cranking?
DO NOT lift the weights by hand while cranking. Insert the crank into the crank holes located in the dial face and turn the crank and you will hear a ratchet clicking while the weights are rising. You cannot overwind the Grandfather Clock and the weights need to be near the top to run the Grandfather Clock for 7 days.
How often do you raise the weights on a clock?
Weights are hung from the movement by a cable or chain. The weights must be raised at least every 7 days or the clock will stop. Raising cable driven weights is accomplished ...
How to hang a pendulum?
To hang the pendulum, locate the pendulum guide through the front door, or any of the side or back access panel locations. While holding the pendulum guide with one hand, slip the pendulum in through the front door with your other hand. Place the pendulum hook over the pin or through the slot on the pendulum guide, and lower the pendulum until it is hanging securely on the pendulum guide. (See figure 3).
How are chime and strike made?
The strike and chime sounds are made by a series of hammers hitting various length rods. Each rod makes a different sound when hit by a hammer. Specific chime melodies are achieved by controlling the sequence that each hammer hits a corresponding rod.
What is the heart of a floor clock?
At the heart of every floor clock is the movement. The movement controls the hour strike, time keeping, and chime. The pendulum and weights are critical components to operation of the clock movement. The pendulum provides the ability to regulate and adjust the time keeping. As described within these instructions, ...
How long does it take to remove styrofoam blocks?
You can remove the styrofoam blocks AFTER they become loose through normal operation, which typically occurs after eight (8) hours of run time. Position the clock into its final location. Once in place, your clock cabinet must be leveled, as the clock may not operate if it is not level.
Where is the serial number on a clock?
The product information label may be located in several locations: outside the shipping carton, back of door, back of the clock, top of the clock, inside the top back corner of the clock, or inside the clock above the back of the dial.
Do you need to check your clock cabinet after setting it up?
It may be necessary to periodically check your cabinet after initial set-up, (especially if the clock is on carpet), as it. might settle after original leveling. (see. figure 2). Ensure clock is positioned square and firm on the floor so that it will not fall over.
Why is my grandfather clock stuck?
Grandfather Clock Weights Stuck. The Grandfather clock weights can get stuck in the high position if over wound. Some larger clocks have over wind protection to prevent this. The grandmother and grandfather chain drive units often do not have this feature. When winding the weights up make sure the top of the weight can be seen when done.
Where is the strike weight on a clock?
The strike weight is on the left as you face the clock and has the lightest weight. Only after the chime weight is operating correctly can you work on the strike weight. If the clock does not run through the chime sequence it will not get to where it strikes out the hours.
What to do if all else fails on a clock?
If all else fails, and it’s a chain driven clock, you would need to cut the chain in half, or break a link, to take the movement out of the clock. With the movement out of the clock it can be fixed.
How to get a chime weight stuck?
The chime weight is on the right as you face the clock and has the heaviest weight. Using cloth gloves, or at least a cloth of some kind, pull down on the weight some. This is the same as making the weight weigh more. At the same time, turn the minute hand past the quarter hour to see if it will engage the chime.
