Fixing a Clock Chime That Is Off or Silent
Chime problems are usually timing problems, not broken parts.
Chime strikes the wrong hour
On most rack-strike movements you can correct this by moving the hour hand alone, without disturbing the minute hand, until it matches the number struck. On count-wheel movements you let it strike itself into agreement.
Chime plays at the wrong quarter
Let the clock chime through a full hour without touching the hands. Many movements self-correct within one or two cycles.
Silent or dull chime
Check the chime silence lever first, then look for a hammer resting against a rod. Dull tone with no rattle usually means hammer springs have lost tension — a bench adjustment.
When to call a clockmaker
If a clock has stopped, is losing more than a few minutes a week, sounds wrong when it strikes, or has been stored and not run, stop experimenting and have it inspected. Forcing a dry movement is the most expensive mistake a clock owner can make. We are at (214) 779-9792.
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