Troubleshooting Guide

The following solutions will guide you through the most common problematic issues with mechanical clocks.

Problem:  My clock doesn’t run.

Possible Solution #1:  If your clock has not been serviced in the past five years, you may be running your clock dry. This can damage the clock. You should take it to a qualified clock repair person for movement service.

Possible Solution #2:  Has the clock been moved or recently taken a jolt? Clocks must be run "in beat." That is, the tick and tock must be evenly spaced in time. Check to see if your clock has an automatic beat adjuster.

Possible Solution #3:  If your clock is in beat and it still doesn't run, it could be that the springs have either broken or become weak or some part is excessively worn. You should take it in for service.

Problem:  My clock runs slow or fast.

Possible Solution:  You can adjust the speed your clock runs very simply. For pendulum clocks the procedure is as follows:  First, simply wind and set your clock to the correct time. Twenty four hours later, note the change from the correct time. On the bottom of the pendulum is an adjusting nut. By turning this nut, you can make your clock run faster or slower.

If you move the pendulum up, the clock will run faster. To move the pendulum up, turn the nut to the right one complete turn. If you move the pendulum down, the clock will run slower. To move the pendulum down, turn the nut to the left one complete turn.

After making an adjustment it is important to wait 24 hours before observing the results and making another adjustment. Keep a record of the day, amount of time your clock was off, amount of adjustment and the direction you moved the adjusting the nut. After you have your clock adjusted to run within one minute per day, switch to adjusting once every seven days. Repeat the procedure used to do the daily adjustment.

Remember, mechanical clocks will not run as accurately as modern battery or electric clocks. Your clock was designed and built during a time when a minute was of little concern. After you have your clock running as accurately as possible, you will still have to adjust the minute hand a minute or two each month.

Problem:  How do I determine the specific location of the weights on my grandfather clock?

Possible Solution:  The following rules apply to "modern" grandfather clocks. If your clock was not manufactured within the last 50 years these rules may not be applicable.

If your clock is powered by weights, there is likely a difference in the weights. The weights are not randomly placed on the clock. If you are unsure where the weights belong, look on the bottom of the weights, many times you will find the letter "L" (left), "R" (right) and "C" (center) stamped on the bottom. Remember it is left and right as you look at your clock.
If your weights are not marked, you generally hang the heaviest weight on the right side. The other two weights will weigh the same and can be hung on either the left side or in the center position.

There are exceptions to these rules, call Dakota Clock Repair toll-free 1-877-425-4879 for advice.

Problem:  My clock doesn’t wind properly.

Possible Solution #1:  If you can turn the key but it springs right back, the ratchet is not functioning. Do not try to wind the clock. Take it to a qualified service person for repair.

Possible Solution #2:  If you can turn the key but it just spins, the spring is probably broken or has come off the winding shaft. Take the clock to a qualified repair person for service.

Possible Solution #3:  If the clock is fully wound and doesn't run, the most likely problem is the oils and grease in the movement and spring have dried out and become gummy. Another cause could be a bent gear tooth or pivot. In this case, take it to a qualified repair person and have the movement overhauled.

Problem:  How often should I wind my clock?

Possible Solution:  All mechanical clocks should be fully wound until you cannot turn the key any further without forcing it.

Problem:  My clock ran down with the hand over the winding arbor. What do I do?

Possible Solution:  Move the hand backward enough to insert the key. Wind the clock and reset the time according to the instructions.

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