Pearl grandfather clock

Question

My clock has a H-451 movement. Left and right weights will not drop and chime. Have had clock since 1982, keep it clean and oil every 5to6 years. Never had problem before;it just stopped chiming. Time works.

Thank You,

Tom

Answer

Your description leads me to believe the clock is trying to function with an excess friction condition. Since you are having the clock cleaned and lubricated on a regular basis I would suggest it is in need of some pivot work. Have the clock inspected by a qualified clock repair person. Your clock is definitely trying to tell you something.

Question

I asked you the question earlier about the weights being filled with ballust. You said that they indeed need to be filled wit either steel or lead. These weights are empty. What would you reccomend I use? Thank You so much for taking the time to answer questions like mine. You and your service are truly awesome. I gave you a very high rating, thanks again.

Answer

Hello again Ken. We need to determine how much weight your clock needs for each of the shells. I would like to know what is stamped on the back of the clock movement. With this information I should be able to look up the correct amount of weight. Also, I will need to know the diameter and length of the shells. They should all be the same.

Question

The side glass panels on my 30-year old Pearl grandfather clock have "brown putty" that has dried and deteriorated making the glass loose. Can you tell me where I can find some of this and how to replace the glass? The "putty" is smooth on one side but has ridges or teeth on the other. Thanks.

Answer

Diane, the brown putty you mention sounds like what we call glass retainer, door liner or vinyl extrusion. If it is removed is there a groove in the frame next to where the glass rests? If so, I have the retainer or I can give you the names of some suppliers. I want to make sure it is what you need, so can you possibly send me a clear photo of a panel. Or I can send you a photo I have to compare. You can reply to my shop email address below. Also, is this the same retainer that is used on the glass surrounding the doors and if applicable, the side glass panels on the sides of the clock? The reason I ask is that the retainer is usually sold in 10' sections, and if some of it has deteriorated, the other probably needs replacing. The minimum orders would cover the cost of this anyway. Let me know.

Question

The clock will only run with the pendulum off.? when i put it on it will run for about 15 min.

Answer

Danny, It's a good sign that the clock runs without the pendulum on. This usually means that the clock is able to run with the pendulum attached. There may be some adjusting involved that you may or may not be able to do on your own. First, check to see if it is "in beat". With the pendulum on, the ticking should sound evenly spaced in time, like someone walking. If the ticks are uneven, an adjustment is needed. The other thing I recommend is oiling the movement. Here is a link to my video on oiling: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9YrBcKiHA4 Let me know how it goes.

Question

MY MOTHER WAS WINDING CLOCK AND PULLED MIDDLECHAIN OUT. IS THIS SOMETHING I CANFIX AT HOME OR DO I NEED CLOCK REPAIRMAN. I LIVE IN COUNTRY AND VERY HARD TO GET SOMEONE TO SERVICE HERE.

Answer

Replacing a chain can be a frustrating endeavor best left to someone who understands the workings of a clock movement. If, however, there is no option other than do it yourself, I can provide you with a description of how you might accomplish the task. Otherwise I suggest you take the clock movement to a qualified clock mechanic. It should only take a few minutes. In any case, other than having a housecall, you would have to remove the movement from its case, either to repair yourself or to take to a clock repair person. If you wish I will attempt to walk you through the removal of the movement from its case and, if you wish, subsequent replacement of the chain. Think about it, and let me know.