My grandfather clock chain came off and I thought I would have to find a clock repair person to drive to our small remote community. Then I found your video and at least understood what I was looking at when I held a mirror to see the inner workings. I was able to rethread the chain and get the clock going again. I am a 69 year old grandma. I smile when I see the clock ticking away and know I fixed it. Thank you!!!!!!
Wow! After moving to Washington State in 2014, my clock had the center chain come off. I checked and it was over $200.00 to get repaired in home. Today, I thought "what the heck!" and searched RUclips. I found this video, watched it about 4 times to make sure I got it, and after about 5 minutes, I GOT THE CHAIN BACK ON!! My wife was amazed! I forgot just how beautiful this sound was! We have a Grandfather clock upstairs, but this one is down stairs and once I dust it off, I plan to put it in our living room and enjoy it once again! Thank you Todd for this very useful video! You are great!
Thank you so much! You saved me $200 bucks! I inherited my Grandfather's clock and wasn't sure how to put it back together. It's now working and everytime it chimes it reminds me of him!
Found this video because we inherited a Howard Miller 610-202 clock and it was transported to our house with the chains off. Was worried we'd have to call a repairman because I could not figure out how we'd get to the middle sprocket, but this has given me hope. Thank you for putting this video online for us know-nothings! :)
We are so grateful for this video. We bought our clock and didn't prepare it well for transport. After we removed the weights, the chains quickly slipped off one by one. Your video saved the day!
Thank you so much for this detailed video. My wife inherited a Howard Miller with the Westminster Chime mechanism from her grandparents that hadn’t worked in over 20 years because the center chain had been pulled to far and while attempting to fix it, her grandfather got it wedged in the sprocket. I was able to get it free, but didn’t know how to get it back on correctly. After watching this video and the explanation of using some stranded wire as a feeder for the chain and also the explanation of which side the weight should hang on according to the ratchet direction gave me the confidence to get it going again. Thankfully it doesn’t appear that any harm was done to the mechanism as it has been running on time for about 30 minutes. Thanks again! I’ll have to watch your other videos to see how to keep it clean and working for years to come.
Thank you very much for the video.. we fiddled with the middle chain for over an hour and then I checked RUclips. Found you video and got that middle chain on the gear in less than 30 minutes. You're a life saver and back saver.
My father assembled a clock kit in the '70s. When he passed in 2009 I moved the clock to my home and the chains had fallen off during the move. Reattaching them was a mystery to me. So for 13 years the clock has sat silently. Thank you so very much for helping me to once again bring life and a voice to this beautiful heirloom.
Because of your video, you saved us several hundred dollars to get someone to come out and put the center chain back on! We were able to do it ourselves!!!
A few years back I was blessed to receive my grandma’s grandfather clock when we moved last year I accidentally pulled the center chain off. Everyone said I couldn’t fix it on my own but I found your video and all afternoon I have been listening to the beautiful chimes as it is completely fixed! I can’t wait to watch to see how to care for it. Thanks!
Thank you! Right weight chain was completely off my 1972 Ridgeway grandfather clock; followed your video and fixed it perfectly. Hardest part was opening the chain link to remove the end tags!
Thank you! This video was perfect! We moved over a year ago, it was a self-move and I made the mistake of removing the chains and the weights. I should have just removed the weights only and secured the chains instead, but hindsight is 20/20. For a year my clock has been non-operating and everyone I called wanted to charge me $350-$450 to come out and re-assemble. With the help of this video you shared, I did it myself and I am thrilled - It is working again and it is music to my ears. Thank you! Thank you! for sharing you expertise. Excellent instructions!!
Hi. Thank you so much for this super simple ""how-to" video. My mother was going to pay someone $250 to do this and get the clock working. I am a 50(ish) yr old woman, and had to wait til she went to church, to sneak and surprise her. My point with my age and gender, is that first try, the weight is back in place, and I have never touched a clock before!!! Thank you again!. On to the next video to get her started again.
My grandmother clock pendulum come loose how do yo put together don't know if something broken most of the parts are loose the movers I think miss handle it.
Roger Gatdula really? Just the pendulum being unattached . .. is that correct? The stick with the circular pendant on the bottom , that swings back and forth in the clock? You’re inquiring how to reattach it , RUclips’d it infact . Did you get it reattached ? How did you find the info or did you have a friend help or just messed with it until you got it back on? Sorry , for the many questions, just am genuinely curious ab your jostled moved clock. Cora from Alaska
This is so wonderful! The weights on my grandfather clock were pulled too high and got stuck so I had removed them and they have been just sitting there for a year. After I found your video I followed your instructions, actually was able to do it without using a wire. Also mine didn't have side panel access but it had a rear one so that was how I got to it. It worked perfectly! So happy!
I got a grandsfather clock from an estate sale and it had no chains attached. Watched this video about 3 times and got them all on in the right place. Todd, you're the greatest. I subscribed and will watch more videos as I try to put everything back together. Thanks again!!!!!
Oh my Goodness, THANK YOU SO MUCH. We are doing a remodeling job and someone took the weights, chains and pendulum off. Now it's time for me to put it back together. I didn't take it a part so I had no idea on putting it back together. Thank you, Thank you for sharing and teaching.
I had ABSOLUTELY no idea how a grandfather clock worked when I volunteered to set a friends up with just the chains and weights randomly in a box. Excellent instructional and the finished clock keeps perfect time. Thanks Todd.
I wish u lived in Gainesville, FL, so you can fix my Aaron Willard grandfathers clock. It's 37 years old and has been cleaned 5 years ago. We moved it to FL and the pendulum is hooked up, but it doesn't continue swinging on it's own. I push it, it swings, then pendulum stops after 3 min. thanks again M. Selli
This was a huge help. Complete beginner, managed to rechain my new Westminster Chime in an hour after watching this. Had a bit of an issue with the centre gear ( the clock) but solved that by hooking a length of wire on the sprockets and pulling the chain through by finger turning the sprocket with the chain tagging along behind. Thanks
This shows the amazing power of the internet. Thank you so much for this video! I am not a clock mechanic but I am the stupid fool who took the weights and chains off when moving houses so the clock wouldn’t get damaged. But then, I had no idea how to put it all back together. That was until I watched your video and BAM! All fixed! Thank you so much!
THANK YOU SO MUCH! while moving from MD to NC the packers pulled all the chains tightly and then it was over tight, I got the chains off and finally got the right and left chair on but had no idea how to do the middle chain. you video has told me how now...thanks so very much. It's so hard to get a grandfather clock man to come out so I have resorted to use RUclips...lol...thanks so very much...lovely easy video.
Thank you for this video. My clock hasn’t worked in about 8 years and low priority for clock repair in a shop. I was able to fix it myself in a matter of under 20 minutes using the wire trick. My center chain had come off years ago and now my clock is keeping time once again on my30 year oldHoward Miller grandfather clock. It was a breeze thanks 5o you showing this simple trick that works. Thanks again!
Might be the single most helpful grandfather clock video I’ve found online! Thank you for making such a helpful video, you’ve saved us all a ton of time and money ❤
TOD *thank you again. There is one repair man here in Gainesville. I called him & have an appointment. Hope he can repair our old beautiful grandfather clock
Margaret can you please put me in contact with repair man in gainesville I have a Howard miller wall clo0ck from 1979 that needs a once over and the time adjusted I live half way between gainesville and Ocala 5 houses up from 441 Anne
Todd thanks so much for this video, you saved a griving daughter... My dad pass away after a terrible accident and the thing he loved the most was one clock similar to this, and this video help me fix the mistake my mom made. I'm gonna watch the rest of the videos to learn how to keep ot running
I have a Tempest Fugit tall case g/f clock. The weights all 3 and the pendulum is non existent. If possible id like to know whether a pendulum to build is something i could do. Ive already have been informed the weight of the pen is immaterial to the movemnt. The length and size of bob is. I also gave a German Jmperator which im trying to fabricate a pendulum (quite short from what i could tell. Getting these 2 clocks right and working would make me really happy. I also hope the weights for chains indicated can used for mine(the g/f clock)
Hi Todd, I'm a new subscriber. My clock is a German make that came with the Emperor Kit. It has been very dependable but occasionally one of the weights just drops off. I have no idea why but the end result is having to reinstall the chain and put the weight back into it's casing. Your video was very helpful in helping to get things back together. It's working well. Thanks. Incidentally, I'm an 82 year old widow.
Thank you, Todd. This saved me considerable cash by allowing me to fix a chain end that had gotten caught up in the quarterly chimes' sprocket. It took me only 20 minutes to fix it!
Thank you for this wonderful video. I was able to repair my grandfather clock when one of the weights spontaneously came apart after 30 years of use and detached the chain from the gear.
Thank you very much. You have convinced me that I have no business getting into my grandfather's Clocks gears and chains since my sprockets overlap and are hard to get to. Best leave this to an expert.
Thanks Todd! The the chain for the middle weight of my clock came off the sprocket. With your detailed instruction I was able to put it back in place without too much difficulty. My clock is up and running again.
Thank you so much. I inherited a clock that my grandfather built and the weight broke off due to old chains. It is important for me to keep this clock working!
This was an excellent piece of work. I had no idea how the mechanics really worked nor how to replace a chain. 30 minutes later my clock is back in business. Thank you!
Your video just saved us $375. Thank you. The tip about using 18 gauge wire was so helpful. We have a 1980's Ridgeway Tempus Fugit chain driven grandfather clock. We recently had to remove the weights to move the clock. I actually raised the left and right weights too high and couldn't get the weights off. Thanks to your video we remedied the problem. Somehow in the process the chain for middle weight came out. Question: Does the middle chain feed from left to right? Thank you
Great video. Detailed and clear. Helped me fix my clock and it took me just 30 minutes or so - once I found the wire to loop around the gears. I recommend taking the door off the clock. Easier to get your hands in and around where you need to pull the chains.
Good video.👍🏼✌🏼 I have a Moathe Grandfather clock. My issue is the centre sprocket for the pendulum (I believe) keeps turning. It doesn't click or have any tension. What's the issue?? 🤔😁 How does the pendulum connect?
Thanks a lot for your helpful video my grandmother just recently passed away and I ended up with her beautiful grandfather clock the chain had came out years ago and now I know how to put it back in.
Thank you! Thank you!!! I know this is an older video, but you helped me fix my heirloom clock. I am really grateful that you made this video and explained the “how to” so well!!! Thank you, again!!! ❤️
Sounds like the "click" spring on the drum is damaged or out of place. It's job is to engage a ratcheting pawl so the gear can only turn one way to wind. It would need to be repaired by a Horologist.
Very interesting and helpful. Thank you. Just a small point, all grandfather clocks do necessarily have side access panels to access the movement. My clock's hood has to be lifted off for this purpose. Thanks again.
Thanks Todd. I do believe I saved me from a bout of frustration and a few choice swear words. My 1979 Ridgeway grandfather clock (I just bought had the chains removed by the former owner after I asked he let me prepare the clock for travel) and I thank you.
Oh my God I fix the chains exactly the way that you do! 😍 But I don’t know why doesn’t have a sound🤷🏻♀️ Please I really appreciate any advice from you! Maybe I forget to do something important!
On the face of the clock normally on the right side around the #3 o'clock you should see a small chime/silent lever. make sure it is fully in the chime possition.
Hi Todd I have the exact same mechanism you are working on in this video.while winding the clock weight came loose from The Hook and the chain came out I replaced the chain but the clock will only run about 30 seconds with the pendulum ontake the pendulum off and it will continue to run faster of course is this hurting .when I replace the weight I moved it to the top have I now over wound the clock and that's why it won't continue to run with a pendulum on. Thanks for your help Todd
That is very strange. You really can't "over wind" a weight driven clock to my knowledge. Maybe something got damaged with the chain broke. Is the pendulum spring broke or bent? Is the pendulum hook up correctly to the spring and leader hanger extension? Did the crutck get bent or turned out of place?
@@ToddFun thank you for the quick response Todd. I did have the mechanism out and oiled it while I was reinstalling the chain the crutch harm does have a bow in it should it be straight I may have been careless with it. The next day or so I'll get back to you and let you know if I had any success. My father built the clock from scratch in the 80s thanks again. cleoyoder@gmail.com
I bought a Howard Miller triple chime, where for whatever reason, the guy took the chains out. With the movement still in the case, I found the ideal tool was a mechanic's retrieval tool. They're a flexible wound-wire choke cable about 2 feet long with a button on one end that extends a tiny claw on the other. I simply hooked the chain in the claw and was able to reach right into the movement, and set the chains onto the sprockets
Thank you for the video, confused about what is right..is it from the back of clock or front ? My grandfather clock is mounted on the wall so I'm going by feel.. facing the clock the left side chain needs to be put back in. Thank you in advance
Thanks a lot. I moved with my mother’s grandfather clock 9 months ago and the weights were removed. I thought that I’d have to find someone to fix it. I was missing the chiming and wanted to get it working again. So glad I found your video.
You might get some help by calling timesavers.com in Scottsdale AZ. Ask from help looking up possible replacement parts and have your make and model number from the back brass plate of your clock works mechanism.
I bought a 2nd-hand Colonial gf (1970’s). Chime and strike work well but the time stops at :59 every hour. If I pull on the weight chain it will tick again. If I move the hand past the hour point it will chime and strike. I put the pendulum back in motion and it keeps good time until the :59 mark. Is there some servicing of the time chain and weight that will help this situation?
my roommate inherited a Tempus Fugit Grandfather Clock.and had it moved, but now it is not workin..thanks for the info..will watch your other vids to troubleshoot the situation...I love a challenge...hope to hear it chime
I feel like such a dummy. A couple nights ago, I realized I needed to raise the weights on my clock. I lifted up on the middle weight and began to raise the chain. I was distracted and didn't realize the weight had lifted off the hook until the chain came out the other side. Now... I have to get the chain back where it belongs. It just haaaaaaad to be the center weight. I made several attempts tonight but the lighting was bad and my hooker was too stiff. I'll try again tomorrow. Thanks so much for the how to. The closest clock repairman is over an hour away and $$$.
Good luck. You'll get it. Remember that some clocks have removable hoods and/or side panels that make it a lot easier to fiddle with oiling and chain installs.
Recently got a granddaughter clock from a charity shop. Interclock brand. I seem to have extra weights than I need. I asume I only need 3 as I have only 3 chains. I've also noticed the chains are different lengths and one has tags at bottom ends not a hook. If anyone can advise on which chain should go where that would be a great help for me to get started 😊
I'm 81 years old and followed your video to hanh 2 chains out of 3 on my Barwick grand father clock 194422, just had it cleaned. the middle chain was alredy on (I can see why). Now to see if it will keep time. Thank you, Michele
Thanks so much for the informative video. I've been trying to find someone to help with this for over a year! It took awhile but I got it done! NOW where can I find replacement hooks for the weights. I lost one. No luck on the Howard Miller side
Might be best to just buy all new chains with hooks if they have what you need at Time Savers: timesavers.com/c-325857-clock-repair-replacement-parts-weights-weight-shells-components.html
My chains have circular eyelets so they can be installed either way I used a plastic tie to fish the chain. It is flexible but it keeps straight just enough to push through. Like your videos
Is the chain direction the same on all grandfather clocks? While trying to repair the (Diplomat) grandfather clock I have, I noticed that the right-side chain is in the opposite direction of what you're saying the chain should be going. The hook is on the outside, but you're saying the hook should be toward the center (If I'm understanding you). So, in this case, the weight is dropping downward (with the chain movement going clockwise).
im wondering about the position of the chime shut off lever. Is the chime shut off lever the long lever on the right of the mechanism, that is in "up" position? Is the lever in the up position the "chime off" mode? My franz hermle 451-053 does not chime, but clock works. The right and left weights dont go down, but center does, and clock itself works fine. Just the chime does not work. My lever is in "down" position. thanks.
Well just move it to the other position and see if it start working. If not then for sure something is wrong and it'll have to be looked at by a horologist.
Hi there I just bought a Erhard jauch uhrenfabrik emperor grandfather clock made in Germany made in 1977..I am trying to put the chain on the right side gear but it won't turn..yours from this video is made different can you help me?
The clock you are working on is it the back or front? (it matters to me about the middle chain placement). I am working from the BACK of my clock so when replacing the middle chain should I be threading left to right or right to left. I know you covered this but you did not say if you are working from the front or back. I am having trouble finding the middle sprocket. My clock does not have a moving side panel that I can see.. In winding my clock I did this to high. I am so bummed ..also scared to take the front off there is a slit in the bottom like the one you are working on. I tried to take a picture of it but no success yet Thank you in advance.. Oh I have never done this before.
Todd I know you said the heaviest weight on right and lightest on the left, my clock is strange they are almost the same weight 4 LB, 4.6 LB and 4.7 LB. so is that the order from left to right?
yes, I would try that first. If one of them stops dropping then switch with a heavier weight. I would also look at the weights every carefully to see if there are any markings that would let you know which order they on (L,C,R) or (1,2,3) as examples.
I let my daughter have my Mom's grandfather clock for a while, and when they returned it to me all the chains were out! I think they thought they should take them out to transport. There is only one clock repair guy anywhere in our area, which I called and I waited a year for him to show up, and when I tried to email or call, the email and messages were all full! I was able to put them back in and get it going again without having to take the clock apart!
hi my name is todd also i have a howard miller clock chain driven clock that does not chime. my question is how do i set the time ? do you move the big arm clock wise or counter clock wise? when i got the clock the right (looking at the clock) chain was off and i set the time by turning the big arn clock wise. please help if u can
I'm glad I found your channel. My wife bought me a Herschede grandfather clock (model 325, 3 weights) for my birthday. I've always wanted a nice antique clock & she found a nice looking one on Craigslist. It's missing the pendulum & the chains are off. I'll use this video to give it a shot on my own. I'm wondering how to get the mechanism out of the cabinet. I can see the wingnuts on either side holding it in place. I guess I take off the clock hands but do I pull the face off too so the mechanism comes out the front? Which other videos of yours do you recommend me watching first? Thanks!
They should be marked on the bottom or someplace. If not I have always seen the heaviest on the right because that runs the 1/4 hour chimes and therefore has the most movement in a week so the gearing gets more torque to compensate for the need for move movement in the same drop as the other two that don't need to produce so much movement in the same drop.
Cora / 31 from Alaska here. 1st order of import, THANKYOU for the time you’ve taken to help with my very specific inquiry , refreshing , so again, your time is definitely appreciated ,, With the feeding through of the chain, since there are the teeth that the chain loops fit over and are easily rotated into the direction you want to feed the chain , is it feasible to place the chain onto the teeth and then manually manipulated to spin the chain up and over , continuing until the chain is in the desired length . (I am writing this while watching , starting after threading the first , left , chain. Random , but letting it be know ) Again, THANK YOU THANK YOH THANKYOU
Yes if you can get that chain started that way and then if you can manipulate the sprocket to turn it will work. I would say only a few clocks that type of loading would work.
Yes but to get to the "click" springs you have to take out the mechanism anyway. I have never had any luck getting to the click springs to let down the weights while the mechanism was in the clock. So you might as well see if you can unscrew the hook hangers from the weights while somebody holds the weight body and weight bottom plate. Once the weights are apart you can remove the mechanism or maybe even just remove and re-install the drive chains as in this video.
Center chain has been impossible for me to get. I can't remove side panels or any of the housing so I have no side view. I can get wire up in there, but can't bring it around and down the other side. I'm working blind. Any advice?
Your videos have been helpful in the past, but I have a problem that I haven't been able to locate it's solution. My left chain, I believe that it's the one that makes all of the movements move and drives the pendulum, no longer stops/ratchets. When I pull it up it just goes right down again. Is there something that needs adjusting or something needs to be replaced? Any advice/suggestions would be appreciated.
You might have a broken "click spring" on your main sprocket. Sometimes they can get worn out too and jam and/or get dirty and jam. If any of these happen the sprocket will free wheel in both directions. ruclips.net/video/SZgJl4VyvRc/видео.html
i do have a question and i hope you will see it to answer it i took off the weights when moving the clock from house to house but i have weighed all 3 weights and the right one like you said is heavier..the center and left are equal weights..does it matter which weight i put on first .. just curious thank you ..i suppose i will start with the heavier one or does it matter?
I am new to Grandfather Clocks, really have no real experience other than 2-3 months or so. I have a Howard Miller Clock, and have been pulling the weights down from left-to the middle and then the far right. I have a chain pull for all 3 weights. It’s a 1972 clock. Well early this morning the weights we’re getting low and I pulled them up in the same order I described above. All even high. When I was pulling the 3rd far right weight, I noticed it would intermittently chime, that perhaps the chains may have been making them vibrate. A few hours or so later, I learned I hadn’t heard any of the chimes sound off at all. The time keeping was correct, but no chimes at all, not on the quarter, the hour or 30 mins turns. Nothing at all. I noticed only the middle weight had come down a little, the 3rd weight on the right did not come down at all. The far left weight wasn’t really noticeable to me if it had. My clock does not have side access panels, but has a rear access panel. I was able to retrieve the 3 rd weight chain and gradually and carefully gain some slack to make the chain a bit longer. I reattached all the weights back on and the clock moves, but I still have no chimes at all. I’m not sure if that 3rd weight being hung up may have knocked the clock sync or timing off, if that’s even the correct terminology to use. Anyone have any suggestions? I used it for 3 months and it worked great. When I pulled the back panel off the back, I noticed 1 of the hammers frozen in the pulled back position . The other hammers seem to be flush with the strings/cords. Any advice or help would be greatly appreciated.
The Clock does not chime at all now. Yesterday it would chime at right time but minute hand would be on 3. Think I may have to call someone. Thanks for the fast response yesterday.
True. Let me know what they find. Sounds like for sure the nut on the back of the minute hand needs to be turned backwards for that 3 minute correction. You sure you didn't just move the silent switch to the silent position? That would cause it to stop chiming.
Hi Todd, My brother who was a Horologer recently passed away, leaving behind some work that was complete and some that still had to be looked at. I have at our shop, a grandfather clock movement that I need to return to the client and re-install into its cabinet. watching this video about re-installing the drive chains has somewhat calmed me down and prepared me for the delivery and re-assembly of this grandfather clock. I do have other questions in regards to placing back the hands at the right ringing position, as well as properly placing the suspension and pendulum back. do you have other helpful videos that can guide me somewhat? As my brother was receiving work from outside sources as well, a horologer is difficult to come by where we are situated. Can you help?? Thank you
Todd, I need to learn how to replace a weight cable of a cable driven grandfather clock. Do you have a video on this topic? Please let me have a link of it. Thanks.
Sorry I don't and I don't have such a clock. I looked online some but didn't find anything useful so maybe call a clock service center and see if they can talk you through the process. Good luck!
Hi. I picked up a Seth Thomas 80K 116cm 26, 9-8 Grandfather Clock which appears to be early 80's. Clock shows a full service tag from a well known clock shop dated 2008. Clock shows no damage other than the left and right side weight cables being pulled / wound up too high. How would I release the cables back to their nominal position so I can reset the weight pulleys and weights? Do you have a video on this procedure? Many thanks.
Sorry, I don't have a video on do such. It could be very difficult and I hear this problem all the time. Can you unscrew the bottom of the weight to get the weights out of the brass tubes? I know some do unscrew like that. Then you might be able to take the top of the weight off and pull the chain gently round like in this video and then re-thread it watching this video. There is a click spring on the back of each main sprocket, if you could hold the weight up and carefully push as stiff wire like a bike spoke bent just right you might be able to hook and pull or push the click spring to release the ratchet. Push or pull depends of the orientation of the click spring. Lots of photos in these posts, click on them to see extra large photo: www.toddfun.com/2016/05/30/how-to-disassemble-a-grandfather-clock-part-2a-of-4/ www.toddfun.com/2016/06/01/how-to-clean-a-grandfather-clock-part-2b-of-4/ www.toddfun.com/2016/08/07/how-to-assemble-oil-and-grease-a-grandfather-clock-part-3-of-4/ In these below photos I'm putting a drop of oil on the click spring in the main sprocket. This is spring loaded pawl that makes the clicking sound when you wind the clock and prevents the weights and main sprocket from rolling backwards. If you can get this click spring pawl to release from the teeth of the main sprocket body the chain and weight can drop backwards. Not sure you will be able to see or access this click spring pawl while the lock is assembled, not likely I would say. www.toddfun.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/How-to-Assemble-Oil-and-Grease-a-Grandfather-Clock-part-3-of-4.Still005.jpg www.toddfun.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/How-to-Assemble-Oil-and-Grease-a-Grandfather-Clock-part-3-of-4.Still006.jpg
Thanks Tod. Actually the answer I was looking for may be in the 3rd line of your answer above: 'There is a click spring.......". I should clarify that I have no problem with the weights as all 3 are removed and waiting to be reinstalled. My problem is getting the weight cables to release (note that my clock is cables and not chains) as they appear to have been wound to the top. I do believe that there is a click spring or something to that effect that I need to release on each cable spool so I can draw the cable back out. I'll try a piece of stiff wire with a 90 bend at one end. With some luck...it just might work. I'll keep you posted. Thanks again.
Todd, I have an antique grandfather clock triple weighter that chimes on the quarter hours but not on the hour. Any advice on how to repair? The clock keeps perfect time, just doesn't strike on the hour.
Does the weight for the hour drive train drop as normal as the clock runs? This is the weight on the left. If not then something is jammed or warren out like a pivot. Do you have a silence lever that might be 1/2 engaged? You can also look up a horologist in your area, they still make service calls in most places.
Thanks! I was able to do the outside chains without much fuss just feeding them in from the sides without any other tools, but that center one has me stumped. I will give it a try with some wire.
I purchased a Ridgeway G F clock estate sale $ 50.00 , center chain was off , followed his direction worked perfectly.10 min fix clock works. $50.00 Nice investment.
Glad to help.That's why I made the video. Chain came off and I could find any help online, in a book or video so I figured it out and made a video so others wouldn't have the same problem finding the information.
I just assembled an emperor model 571 or 575. Brand new - lain in box for 20 + years. Assembly went well except the chimes do not chime. I went thru the troubleshooting section of manual - all appear fine (from troubleshooting suggestions). I do hear the clicks. The heavy weight is in correct position, nothing appears tangled. The chime selector will not slip into bottom selection. As a know nothing clock person it seems that the chime selector may not be moving out of silent position even tho selector indicates it has moved. I would greatly appreciate your help.
Not much I can help with from here. Wish I could help remotely. See if you can find some clock forums to post the question or lookup a local horologist. Good luck.
Hello Sir, I am James from Scottsdale, Arizona. I have recently received a 1973 Tempus Fugit Grandfather clock that has been in the family since 1973. I have found your post extremely helpful but as I have come to find, I am missing a component that makes up the VERGE assembly. If I had to I could probably fabricate something but where would I be able to purchase components? Appearantly I am missing the component that slides into the center of the cylinder or rod with a slat cut into it directly in the back of the dial. I have the pendulum and the oddly shaped key of sorts that the pendulum rides on I need the componet between the oddly shaped key and the cylinder with the slat cut into it. This cylinder has a set screw twist knob adjustment. Can I fabricate something to work or where can I obtain parts? Thank you in advance kind Sir!
Well you live in Scottsdale so just drive over to timesavers.com and ask for some help locating parts. They have great people there and tons of parts. If they can't find parts I'm sure somebody from the back room can point you in the right direction to fab a fix. Bring photos or the mechanism if possible.
So, I got my grandfather clock 'cleaned/tuned up' and now it will not continue working. Even when I start the pendulum swinging, it goes for maybe four to five minutes and gradually slows to a stop. I have leveled the clock side-to-side and front-to-back, and the pendulum is not hitting any of the chimes, but it doesn't continue swinging for more than five minutes. Any ideas of what I could look for to get this clock going for more than 5 minutes? Thanks.
Thank you so much just got a Hammond with a Hermele movement and your video was soooooo helpful. The previous owner never got it to work. We put chains on and it did.
Hi. At the beginning of the video, you said you would show how to fix the chains if they've been pulled up too high after taking the weights off. Can you tell me how to do that? I can't find a fix video anywhere. I will look at your blog for this as well. Thanks
I don't have a video for that, sorry. Sometimes you can unscrew the weight canisters and drop the weights out the bottom of the tubes. This can give you enough room to unhook the top of the weights. Then remove the hocks, pull the chain through and then follow my video on re-threading the chains. If you can't take the hooks off because they are too high sometimes you can still pull the hooks and chain trough by pocking a wire around inside to fish the chain and hook around any gears and shafts. Hope that helps. Other than that you'll have to have a horologist service the clock.
I do have some questions. My clock weight barrel 2 is 8.4 lbs, and one is 13.4 lbs. If I put 13.4 pounds in the chime, it works, but 8.4 pounds does not work in the clock mechanism. But if I put 13.4 pounds in the clock mechanism, it works. How can I fix this problem? Please help.
He said he was going to tell weight placement??
Thought I did, maybe it was in another video I did. On mine and most of the same they hang heaviest from right to left.
@@ToddFun thanks so much. Oh and ya you did. But thanks for the info....again
@@ToddFun looking form the front of the clock or looking from the back of the clock? Right or left?
@@sharonmanprin9768 Looking from the front of the clock
He did say the beginning.. heavy one on R. Lighter one on L.
My grandfather clock chain came off and I thought I would have to find a clock repair person to drive to our small remote community. Then I found your video and at least understood what I was looking at when I held a mirror to see the inner workings. I was able to rethread the chain and get the clock going again. I am a 69 year old grandma. I smile when I see the clock ticking away and know I fixed it. Thank you!!!!!!
Just happened to me 😂.
Wow! After moving to Washington State in 2014, my clock had the center chain come off. I checked and it was over $200.00 to get repaired in home. Today, I thought "what the heck!" and searched RUclips. I found this video, watched it about 4 times to make sure I got it, and after about 5 minutes, I GOT THE CHAIN BACK ON!! My wife was amazed! I forgot just how beautiful this sound was! We have a Grandfather clock upstairs, but this one is down stairs and once I dust it off, I plan to put it in our living room and enjoy it once again! Thank you Todd for this very useful video! You are great!
Glad to have helped. Glad you're enjoying your clock again!
Thank you so much! You saved me $200 bucks! I inherited my Grandfather's clock and wasn't sure how to put it back together. It's now working and everytime it chimes it reminds me of him!
Found this video because we inherited a Howard Miller 610-202 clock and it was transported to our house with the chains off. Was worried we'd have to call a repairman because I could not figure out how we'd get to the middle sprocket, but this has given me hope.
Thank you for putting this video online for us know-nothings! :)
Great. hope you for it figured out.
We are so grateful for this video. We bought our clock and didn't prepare it well for transport. After we removed the weights, the chains quickly slipped off one by one. Your video saved the day!
Glad it was helpful!
After having my grandfather clock disassembled due to countless military moves, it’s finally fixed. Thanks Todd!!
Glad to have helped.
I just found a grandfather clock someone was throwing away, and decided to dumpster save it, this video just earned you a subscriber
Thank you so much for this detailed video. My wife inherited a Howard Miller with the Westminster Chime mechanism from her grandparents that hadn’t worked in over 20 years because the center chain had been pulled to far and while attempting to fix it, her grandfather got it wedged in the sprocket. I was able to get it free, but didn’t know how to get it back on correctly. After watching this video and the explanation of using some stranded wire as a feeder for the chain and also the explanation of which side the weight should hang on according to the ratchet direction gave me the confidence to get it going again. Thankfully it doesn’t appear that any harm was done to the mechanism as it has been running on time for about 30 minutes. Thanks again! I’ll have to watch your other videos to see how to keep it clean and working for years to come.
Glad to be of help.
Thank you very much for the video.. we fiddled with the middle chain for over an hour and then I checked RUclips. Found you video and got that middle chain on the gear in less than 30 minutes. You're a life saver and back saver.
My father assembled a clock kit in the '70s. When he passed in 2009 I moved the clock to my home and the chains had fallen off during the move. Reattaching them was a mystery to me. So for 13 years the clock has sat silently. Thank you so very much for helping me to once again bring life and a voice to this beautiful heirloom.
wonderful !
Because of your video, you saved us several hundred dollars to get someone to come out and put the center chain back on! We were able to do it ourselves!!!
A few years back I was blessed to receive my grandma’s grandfather clock when we moved last year I accidentally pulled the center chain off. Everyone said I couldn’t fix it on my own but I found your video and all afternoon I have been listening to the beautiful chimes as it is completely fixed! I can’t wait to watch to see how to care for it. Thanks!
Glad to have helped. Nice DIY feeling right.
Thank you! Right weight chain was completely off my 1972 Ridgeway grandfather clock; followed your video and fixed it perfectly. Hardest part was opening the chain link to remove the end tags!
Thank you! This video was perfect! We moved over a year ago, it was a self-move and I made the mistake of removing the chains and the weights. I should have just removed the weights only and secured the chains instead, but hindsight is 20/20. For a year my clock has been non-operating and everyone I called wanted to charge me $350-$450 to come out and re-assemble. With the help of this video you shared, I did it myself and I am thrilled - It is working again and it is music to my ears. Thank you! Thank you! for sharing you expertise. Excellent instructions!!
Sure, glad to have been of help. Great to hear you are enjoying your clock again and were able to successfully do the work at a good savings.
Hi. Thank you so much for this super simple ""how-to" video. My mother was going to pay someone $250 to do this and get the clock working. I am a 50(ish) yr old woman, and had to wait til she went to church, to sneak and surprise her. My point with my age and gender, is that first try, the weight is back in place, and I have never touched a clock before!!! Thank you again!. On to the next video to get her started again.
Good to hear you're trying. Let me know how it works out.
My grandmother clock pendulum come loose how do yo put together don't know if something broken most of the parts are loose the movers I think miss handle it.
Roger Gatdula really? Just the pendulum being unattached . .. is that correct? The stick with the circular pendant on the bottom , that swings back and forth in the clock? You’re inquiring how to reattach it , RUclips’d it infact .
Did you get it reattached ? How did you find the info or did you have a friend help or just messed with it until you got it back on? Sorry , for the many questions, just am genuinely curious ab your jostled moved clock.
Cora from Alaska
This is so wonderful! The weights on my grandfather clock were pulled too high and got stuck so I had removed them and they have been just sitting there for a year. After I found your video I followed your instructions, actually was able to do it without using a wire. Also mine didn't have side panel access but it had a rear one so that was how I got to it. It worked perfectly! So happy!
I got a grandsfather clock from an estate sale and it had no chains attached. Watched this video about 3 times and got them all on in the right place. Todd, you're the greatest. I subscribed and will watch more videos as I try to put everything back together. Thanks again!!!!!
Thanks Janee! Glad you sub'ed and glad to have helped.
Oh my Goodness, THANK YOU SO MUCH. We are doing a remodeling job and someone took the weights, chains and pendulum off. Now it's time for me to put it back together. I didn't take it a part so I had no idea on putting it back together. Thank you, Thank you for sharing and teaching.
Wonderful!
I had ABSOLUTELY no idea how a grandfather clock worked when I volunteered to set a friends up with just the chains and weights randomly in a box. Excellent instructional and the finished clock keeps perfect time. Thanks Todd.
YOU ARE SO PATIENT WHEN MECHANICAL REPAIRS. EXCELLENT TEACHING METHODS
Thanks Margaret! I have one more video on this clock. I have to do that final bushing replacement video.
I wish u lived in Gainesville, FL, so you can fix my Aaron Willard grandfathers clock. It's 37 years old and has been cleaned 5 years ago.
We moved it to
FL and the pendulum is hooked up, but it doesn't continue swinging on it's own. I push it, it swings, then pendulum stops after 3 min. thanks again M. Selli
If you can't get it going just google for a local horologist. I'm sure there would be one you could take it to and some even do house calls.
This was a huge help. Complete beginner, managed to rechain my new Westminster Chime in an hour after watching this. Had a bit of an issue with the centre gear ( the clock) but solved that by hooking a length of wire on the sprockets and pulling the chain through by finger turning the sprocket with the chain tagging along behind. Thanks
Thank you so much for this! My wife surprised me with one this weekend and the center chain came off while moving it. This video saved the day!
This shows the amazing power of the internet. Thank you so much for this video! I am not a clock mechanic but I am the stupid fool who took the weights and chains off when moving houses so the clock wouldn’t get damaged. But then, I had no idea how to put it all back together. That was until I watched your video and BAM! All fixed! Thank you so much!
Your welcome. Glad to be helpful.
THANK YOU SO MUCH! while moving from MD to NC the packers pulled all the chains tightly and then it was over tight, I got the chains off and finally got the right and left chair on but had no idea how to do the middle chain. you video has told me how now...thanks so very much. It's so hard to get a grandfather clock man to come out so I have resorted to use RUclips...lol...thanks so very much...lovely easy video.
Thank you for this video. My clock hasn’t worked in about 8 years and low priority for clock repair in a shop. I was able to fix it myself in a matter of under 20 minutes using the wire trick. My center chain had come off years ago and now my clock is keeping time once again on my30 year oldHoward Miller grandfather clock. It was a breeze thanks 5o you showing this simple trick that works. Thanks again!
Nice! glad to hear you have your clock back. Glad to help
Might be the single most helpful grandfather clock video I’ve found online! Thank you for making such a helpful video, you’ve saved us all a ton of time and money ❤
Glad it was helpful!
TOD *thank you again. There is one repair man here in Gainesville. I called him & have an appointment. Hope he can repair our old beautiful grandfather clock
Great! let me know how it works out.
Margaret can you please put me in contact with repair man in
gainesville I have a Howard miller wall clo0ck from 1979 that needs a once over and the time adjusted I live half way between gainesville and Ocala 5 houses up from 441 Anne
Todd thanks so much for this video, you saved a griving daughter... My dad pass away after a terrible accident and the thing he loved the most was one clock similar to this, and this video help me fix the mistake my mom made. I'm gonna watch the rest of the videos to learn how to keep ot running
Sorry about your loss. I hope the clock brings many years of good memories.
I have a Tempest Fugit tall case g/f clock. The weights all 3 and the pendulum is non existent. If possible id like to know whether a pendulum to build is something i could do. Ive already have been informed the weight of the pen is immaterial to the movemnt. The length and size of bob is. I also gave a German Jmperator which im trying to fabricate a pendulum (quite short from what i could tell. Getting these 2 clocks right and working would make me really happy. I also hope the weights for chains indicated can used for mine(the g/f clock)
Hi Todd, I'm a new subscriber. My clock is a German make that came with the Emperor Kit. It has been very dependable but occasionally one of the weights just drops off. I have no idea why but the end result is having to reinstall the chain and put the weight back into it's casing. Your video was very helpful in helping to get things back together. It's working well. Thanks. Incidentally, I'm an 82 year old widow.
Thank you, Todd. This saved me considerable cash by allowing me to fix a chain end that had gotten caught up in the quarterly chimes' sprocket. It took me only 20 minutes to fix it!
Glad to have helped Christine.
Thank you for this wonderful video. I was able to repair my grandfather clock when one of the weights spontaneously came apart after 30 years of use and detached the chain from the gear.
Glad it helped
Thank you for explaining things so simply. Wonderful directions. You saved us $150+.
Thank you very much. You have convinced me that I have no business getting into my grandfather's Clocks gears and chains since my sprockets overlap and are hard to get to. Best leave this to an expert.
Thanks Todd! The the chain for the middle weight of my clock came off the sprocket. With your detailed instruction I was able to put it back in place without too much difficulty. My clock is up and running again.
Glad to be of help!
Thank you so much. I inherited a clock that my grandfather built and the weight broke off due to old chains. It is important for me to keep this clock working!
Good luck with your repairs. Keep me updated.
This was an excellent piece of work. I had no idea how the mechanics really worked nor how to replace a chain. 30 minutes later my clock is back in business. Thank you!
Thank you so much. I accidentally removed one of the 3 chains and wanted to replace it myself--thanks to you I did!!
Glad I could help!
I was hoping to find a video that would lead me in the right direction.but this one Sir, took me all the way. THANK YOU!!!.
Glad it helped!
Your video just saved us $375. Thank you. The tip about using 18 gauge wire was so helpful. We have a 1980's Ridgeway Tempus Fugit chain driven grandfather clock. We recently had to remove the weights to move the clock. I actually raised the left and right weights too high and couldn't get the weights off. Thanks to your video we remedied the problem. Somehow in the process the chain for middle weight came out. Question: Does the middle chain feed from left to right? Thank you
Great video. Detailed and clear. Helped me fix my clock and it took me just 30 minutes or so - once I found the wire to loop around the gears. I recommend taking the door off the clock. Easier to get your hands in and around where you need to pull the chains.
Great to hear!
Good video.👍🏼✌🏼
I have a Moathe Grandfather clock. My issue is the centre sprocket for the pendulum (I believe) keeps turning. It doesn't click or have any tension. What's the issue?? 🤔😁
How does the pendulum connect?
Thanks a lot for your helpful video my grandmother just recently passed away and I ended up with her beautiful grandfather clock the chain had came out years ago and now I know how to put it back in.
Glad to help, hope it all goes well.
Thank you! Thank you!!! I know this is an older video, but you helped me fix my heirloom clock. I am really grateful that you made this video and explained the “how to” so well!!! Thank you, again!!! ❤️
Glad it helped!
Hi Todd I watched your video on changing the chains a grandfather clock. My grandmother's clock that she left me, has 1 outside chain gear
That spins freely and I can't put the weight on or it will pull through. Can you advise me please
Sounds like the "click" spring on the drum is damaged or out of place. It's job is to engage a ratcheting pawl so the gear can only turn one way to wind. It would need to be repaired by a Horologist.
Thank you so much! This video was a huge help in getting my dad's clock going again.
Thank you, I just inherited a Viking grandfather clock that my Grandpa built in the 70’s.
Wish me 🍀
Very interesting and helpful. Thank you. Just a small point, all grandfather clocks do necessarily have side access panels to access the movement. My clock's hood has to be lifted off for this purpose. Thanks again.
Thanks Todd. I do believe I saved me from a bout of frustration and a few choice swear words. My 1979 Ridgeway grandfather clock (I just bought had the chains removed by the former owner after I asked he let me prepare the clock for travel) and I thank you.
Glad to have helped
Thank you soooo much for sharing this! I restrung my clock all by myself! So proud 💕
Thank you 🙏🏻
After This video I have the courage to fix mine! Because the chain was stocked so wish me all the best!
Oh my God I fix the chains exactly the way that you do! 😍
But I don’t know why doesn’t have a sound🤷🏻♀️
Please I really appreciate any advice from you!
Maybe I forget to do something important!
On the face of the clock normally on the right side around the #3 o'clock you should see a small chime/silent lever. make sure it is fully in the chime possition.
Thank you, Todd for the advice. I was able to reach up with fingers on either side of the wheel and work the chain around and down.
Hi Todd I have the exact same mechanism you are working on in this video.while winding the clock weight came loose from The Hook and the chain came out I replaced the chain but the clock will only run about 30 seconds with the pendulum ontake the pendulum off and it will continue to run faster of course is this hurting .when I replace the weight I moved it to the top have I now over wound the clock and that's why it won't continue to run with a pendulum on. Thanks for your help Todd
That is very strange. You really can't "over wind" a weight driven clock to my knowledge. Maybe something got damaged with the chain broke. Is the pendulum spring broke or bent? Is the pendulum hook up correctly to the spring and leader hanger extension? Did the crutck get bent or turned out of place?
@@ToddFun thank you for the quick response Todd. I did have the mechanism out and oiled it while I was reinstalling the chain the crutch harm does have a bow in it should it be straight I may have been careless with it. The next day or so I'll get back to you and let you know if I had any success. My father built the clock from scratch in the 80s thanks again. cleoyoder@gmail.com
Thank you sir, this is exactly what I was looking for my Herschede Bellini and you couldn't have instructed this better.
love old world time pieces. your videos are great.
I bought a Howard Miller triple chime, where for whatever reason, the guy took the chains out. With the movement still in the case, I found the ideal tool was a mechanic's retrieval tool. They're a flexible wound-wire choke cable about 2 feet long with a button on one end that extends a tiny claw on the other. I simply hooked the chain in the claw and was able to reach right into the movement, and set the chains onto the sprockets
Thank you for the video, confused about what is right..is it from the back of clock or front ? My grandfather clock is mounted on the wall so I'm going by feel.. facing the clock the left side chain needs to be put back in. Thank you in advance
From the front looking at the clock face the left of the clock is your left and the right is your right.
Wonderful Info. Saved $200 by going "fishing" with the wire around the sprocket.
Your welcome.
Great video, it really helped me getting the chain back in, but how do I know how high to set the weights?
Oscar Montalvo just stop about 2 inches from the top. You can get closer but really no point in getting them so high.
Thanks a lot. I moved with my mother’s grandfather clock 9 months ago and the weights were removed. I thought that I’d have to find someone to fix it. I was missing the chiming and wanted to get it working again. So glad I found your video.
Thank you for the video. It helped a lot!
Thank you we got a clock from a estate sale and the chains were off. I lucked out small hands I was able to put chains back on. Running great
Great! good news. I hope you enjoy your clock for many years.
Hi Todd, How do you get the right replacement weights for a grandmother clock? I have a tempus fugit and we have lost the weights.
You might get some help by calling timesavers.com in Scottsdale AZ. Ask from help looking up possible replacement parts and have your make and model number from the back brass plate of your clock works mechanism.
I bought a 2nd-hand Colonial gf (1970’s). Chime and strike work well but the time stops at :59 every hour. If I pull on the weight chain it will tick again. If I move the hand past the hour point it will chime and strike. I put the pendulum back in motion and it keeps good time until the :59 mark. Is there some servicing of the time chain and weight that will help this situation?
my roommate inherited a Tempus Fugit Grandfather Clock.and had it moved, but now it is not workin..thanks for the info..will watch your other vids to troubleshoot the situation...I love a challenge...hope to hear it chime
Glad to help
I feel like such a dummy. A couple nights ago, I realized I needed to raise the weights on my clock. I lifted up on the middle weight and began to raise the chain. I was distracted and didn't realize the weight had lifted off the hook until the chain came out the other side. Now... I have to get the chain back where it belongs. It just haaaaaaad to be the center weight. I made several attempts tonight but the lighting was bad and my hooker was too stiff. I'll try again tomorrow. Thanks so much for the how to. The closest clock repairman is over an hour away and $$$.
Good luck. You'll get it. Remember that some clocks have removable hoods and/or side panels that make it a lot easier to fiddle with oiling and chain installs.
Recently got a granddaughter clock from a charity shop. Interclock brand. I seem to have extra weights than I need. I asume I only need 3 as I have only 3 chains. I've also noticed the chains are different lengths and one has tags at bottom ends not a hook. If anyone can advise on which chain should go where that would be a great help for me to get started 😊
I'm 81 years old and followed your video to hanh 2 chains out of 3 on my Barwick grand father clock 194422, just had it cleaned. the middle chain was alredy on (I can see why). Now to see if it will keep time. Thank you, Michele
That is awesome!
Thanks so much for the informative video. I've been trying to find someone to help with this for over a year! It took awhile but I got it done! NOW where can I find replacement hooks for the weights. I lost one. No luck on the Howard Miller side
Might be best to just buy all new chains with hooks if they have what you need at Time Savers: timesavers.com/c-325857-clock-repair-replacement-parts-weights-weight-shells-components.html
You did a beautiful instruction of how to replace chains.
Thanks
My chains have circular eyelets so they can be installed either way I used a plastic tie to fish the chain. It is flexible but it keeps straight just enough to push through. Like your videos
Is the chain direction the same on all grandfather clocks? While trying to repair the (Diplomat) grandfather clock I have, I noticed that the right-side chain is in the opposite direction of what you're saying the chain should be going. The hook is on the outside, but you're saying the hook should be toward the center (If I'm understanding you). So, in this case, the weight is dropping downward (with the chain movement going clockwise).
They can be different.
@@ToddFun Ok, thanks.
im wondering about the position of the chime shut off lever. Is the chime shut off lever the long lever on the right of the mechanism, that is in "up" position? Is the lever in the up position the "chime off" mode? My franz hermle 451-053 does not chime, but clock works. The right and left weights dont go down, but center does, and clock itself works fine. Just the chime does not work. My lever is in "down" position. thanks.
Well just move it to the other position and see if it start working. If not then for sure something is wrong and it'll have to be looked at by a horologist.
Hi there I just bought a Erhard jauch uhrenfabrik emperor grandfather clock made in Germany made in 1977..I am trying to put the chain on the right side gear but it won't turn..yours from this video is made different can you help me?
The clock you are working on is it the back or front? (it matters to me about the middle chain placement). I am working from the BACK of my clock so when replacing the middle chain should I be threading left to right or right to left. I know you covered this but you did not say if you are working from the front or back. I am having trouble finding the middle sprocket. My clock does not have a moving side panel that I can see.. In winding my clock I did this to high. I am so bummed ..also scared to take the front off there is a slit in the bottom like the one you are working on. I tried to take a picture of it but no success yet Thank you in advance.. Oh I have never done this before.
Looking from the front of the clock
Todd I know you said the heaviest weight on right and lightest on the left, my clock is strange they are almost the same weight 4 LB, 4.6 LB and 4.7 LB. so is that the order from left to right?
yes, I would try that first. If one of them stops dropping then switch with a heavier weight. I would also look at the weights every carefully to see if there are any markings that would let you know which order they on (L,C,R) or (1,2,3) as examples.
I let my daughter have my Mom's grandfather clock for a while, and when they returned it to me all the chains were out! I think they thought they should take them out to transport. There is only one clock repair guy anywhere in our area, which I called and I waited a year for him to show up, and when I tried to email or call, the email and messages were all full! I was able to put them back in and get it going again without having to take the clock apart!
hi my name is todd also i have a howard miller clock chain driven clock that does not chime. my question is how do i set the time ? do you move the big arm clock wise or counter clock wise? when i got the clock the right (looking at the clock) chain was off and i set the time by turning the big arn clock wise. please help if u can
I'm glad I found your channel. My wife bought me a Herschede grandfather clock (model 325, 3 weights) for my birthday. I've always wanted a nice antique clock & she found a nice looking one on Craigslist. It's missing the pendulum & the chains are off. I'll use this video to give it a shot on my own.
I'm wondering how to get the mechanism out of the cabinet. I can see the wingnuts on either side holding it in place. I guess I take off the clock hands but do I pull the face off too so the mechanism comes out the front? Which other videos of yours do you recommend me watching first?
Thanks!
Good morning. Could you tell me if for a grandfather clock with a chime the weight that weighs more has to go to the center ??? thanks
They should be marked on the bottom or someplace. If not I have always seen the heaviest on the right because that runs the 1/4 hour chimes and therefore has the most movement in a week so the gearing gets more torque to compensate for the need for move movement in the same drop as the other two that don't need to produce so much movement in the same drop.
Cora / 31 from Alaska here. 1st order of import, THANKYOU for the time you’ve taken to help with my very specific inquiry , refreshing , so again, your time is definitely appreciated ,,
With the feeding through of the chain, since there are the teeth that the chain loops fit over and are easily rotated into the direction you want to feed the chain ,
is it feasible to place the chain onto the teeth and then manually manipulated to spin the chain up and over , continuing until the chain is in the desired length . (I am writing this while watching , starting after threading the first , left , chain. Random , but letting it be know )
Again, THANK YOU THANK YOH THANKYOU
Yes if you can get that chain started that way and then if you can manipulate the sprocket to turn it will work. I would say only a few clocks that type of loading would work.
A old lady my neighbor has a tempus fugit and kids pulled the chains too far is there a release in the back of the mechanism? Thanks
Yes but to get to the "click" springs you have to take out the mechanism anyway. I have never had any luck getting to the click springs to let down the weights while the mechanism was in the clock. So you might as well see if you can unscrew the hook hangers from the weights while somebody holds the weight body and weight bottom plate. Once the weights are apart you can remove the mechanism or maybe even just remove and re-install the drive chains as in this video.
@@ToddFun thank you sir you saved this friend of mine hundreds of dollars 😊
Center chain has been impossible for me to get. I can't remove side panels or any of the housing so I have no side view. I can get wire up in there, but can't bring it around and down the other side. I'm working blind. Any advice?
Your videos have been helpful in the past, but I have a problem that I haven't been able to locate it's solution. My left chain, I believe that it's the one that makes all of the movements move and drives the pendulum, no longer stops/ratchets. When I pull it up it just goes right down again. Is there something that needs adjusting or something needs to be replaced? Any advice/suggestions would be appreciated.
You might have a broken "click spring" on your main sprocket. Sometimes they can get worn out too and jam and/or get dirty and jam. If any of these happen the sprocket will free wheel in both directions.
ruclips.net/video/SZgJl4VyvRc/видео.html
@@ToddFun Thank-you very much. I will watch the video and hopefully fix the problem.
Very helpful, you have knack of explaining things. Thank you so much.
i do have a question and i hope you will see it to answer it i took off the weights when moving the clock from house to house but i have weighed all 3 weights and the right one like you said is heavier..the center and left are equal weights..does it matter which weight i put on first .. just curious thank you ..i suppose i will start with the heavier one or does it matter?
Order of hanging the weights does not matter.
I am new to Grandfather Clocks, really have no real experience other than 2-3 months or so. I have a Howard Miller Clock, and have been pulling the weights down from left-to the middle and then the far right. I have a chain pull for all 3 weights. It’s a 1972 clock. Well early this morning the weights we’re getting low and I pulled them up in the same order I described above. All even high. When I was pulling the 3rd far right weight, I noticed it would intermittently chime, that perhaps the chains may have been making them vibrate. A few hours or so later, I learned I hadn’t heard any of the chimes sound off at all. The time keeping was correct, but no chimes at all, not on the quarter, the hour or 30 mins turns. Nothing at all. I noticed only the middle weight had come down a little, the 3rd weight on the right did not come down at all. The far left weight wasn’t really noticeable to me if it had. My clock does not have side access panels, but has a rear access panel. I was able to retrieve the 3 rd weight chain and gradually and carefully gain some slack to make the chain a bit longer. I reattached all the weights back on and the clock moves, but I still have no chimes at all. I’m not sure if that 3rd weight being hung up may have knocked the clock sync or timing off, if that’s even the correct terminology to use. Anyone have any suggestions? I used it for 3 months and it worked great. When I pulled the back panel off the back, I noticed 1 of the hammers frozen in the pulled back position . The other hammers seem to be flush with the strings/cords. Any advice or help would be greatly appreciated.
The Clock does not chime at all now. Yesterday it would chime at right time but minute hand would be on 3. Think I may have to call someone. Thanks for the fast response yesterday.
True. Let me know what they find. Sounds like for sure the nut on the back of the minute hand needs to be turned backwards for that 3 minute correction. You sure you didn't just move the silent switch to the silent position? That would cause it to stop chiming.
Greetings from Canada, where can I buy chains for a pendulum-weighted clock?
try timesavers.com
Hi Todd,
My brother who was a Horologer recently passed away, leaving behind some work that was complete and some that still had to be looked at. I have at our shop, a grandfather clock movement that I need to return to the client and re-install into its cabinet.
watching this video about re-installing the drive chains has somewhat calmed me down and prepared me for the delivery and re-assembly of this grandfather clock. I do have other questions in regards to placing back the hands at the right ringing position, as well as properly placing the suspension and pendulum back.
do you have other helpful videos that can guide me somewhat? As my brother was receiving work from outside sources as well, a horologer is difficult to come by where we are situated. Can you help?? Thank you
Yes, I have a play list but not all of them may apply to your need.
ruclips.net/p/PL40clH-yZ7flbW79e7sXZ8Ws9sJbA5zFj
Todd,
I need to learn how to replace a weight cable of a cable driven grandfather clock. Do you have a video on this topic? Please let me have a link of it. Thanks.
Sorry I don't and I don't have such a clock. I looked online some but didn't find anything useful so maybe call a clock service center and see if they can talk you through the process. Good luck!
Thanks for your prompt reply.
Hi. I picked up a Seth Thomas 80K 116cm 26, 9-8 Grandfather Clock which appears to be early 80's. Clock shows a full service tag from a well known clock shop dated 2008. Clock shows no damage other than the left and right side weight cables being pulled / wound up too high. How would I release the cables back to their nominal position so I can reset the weight pulleys and weights? Do you have a video on this procedure? Many thanks.
Sorry, I don't have a video on do such. It could be very difficult and I hear this problem all the time. Can you unscrew the bottom of the weight to get the weights out of the brass tubes? I know some do unscrew like that. Then you might be able to take the top of the weight off and pull the chain gently round like in this video and then re-thread it watching this video. There is a click spring on the back of each main sprocket, if you could hold the weight up and carefully push as stiff wire like a bike spoke bent just right you might be able to hook and pull or push the click spring to release the ratchet. Push or pull depends of the orientation of the click spring.
Lots of photos in these posts, click on them to see extra large photo:
www.toddfun.com/2016/05/30/how-to-disassemble-a-grandfather-clock-part-2a-of-4/
www.toddfun.com/2016/06/01/how-to-clean-a-grandfather-clock-part-2b-of-4/
www.toddfun.com/2016/08/07/how-to-assemble-oil-and-grease-a-grandfather-clock-part-3-of-4/
In these below photos I'm putting a drop of oil on the click spring in the main sprocket. This is spring loaded pawl that makes the clicking sound when you wind the clock and prevents the weights and main sprocket from rolling backwards. If you can get this click spring pawl to release from the teeth of the main sprocket body the chain and weight can drop backwards. Not sure you will be able to see or access this click spring pawl while the lock is assembled, not likely I would say.
www.toddfun.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/How-to-Assemble-Oil-and-Grease-a-Grandfather-Clock-part-3-of-4.Still005.jpg
www.toddfun.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/How-to-Assemble-Oil-and-Grease-a-Grandfather-Clock-part-3-of-4.Still006.jpg
Thanks Tod. Actually the answer I was looking for may be in the 3rd line of your answer above: 'There is a click spring.......". I should clarify that I have no problem with the weights as all 3 are removed and waiting to be reinstalled. My problem is getting the weight cables to release (note that my clock is cables and not chains) as they appear to have been wound to the top. I do believe that there is a click spring or something to that effect that I need to release on each cable spool so I can draw the cable back out. I'll try a piece of stiff wire with a 90 bend at one end. With some luck...it just might work. I'll keep you posted. Thanks again.
Todd, I have an antique grandfather clock triple weighter that chimes on the quarter hours but not on the hour. Any advice on how to repair? The clock keeps perfect time, just doesn't strike on the hour.
Does the weight for the hour drive train drop as normal as the clock runs? This is the weight on the left. If not then something is jammed or warren out like a pivot. Do you have a silence lever that might be 1/2 engaged? You can also look up a horologist in your area, they still make service calls in most places.
Thanks! I was able to do the outside chains without much fuss just feeding them in from the sides without any other tools, but that center one has me stumped. I will give it a try with some wire.
Excellent! Hope it works.
Excellent video for me this Feb 4th 2023.
Thanks!
I purchased a Ridgeway G F clock estate sale $ 50.00 , center chain was off , followed his direction worked perfectly.10 min fix clock works. $50.00
Nice investment.
Glad to help.That's why I made the video. Chain came off and I could find any help online, in a book or video so I figured it out and made a video so others wouldn't have the same problem finding the information.
I just assembled an emperor model 571 or 575. Brand new - lain in box for 20 + years. Assembly went well except the chimes do not chime. I went thru the troubleshooting section of manual - all appear fine (from troubleshooting suggestions). I do hear the clicks. The heavy weight is in correct position, nothing appears tangled. The chime selector will not slip into bottom selection. As a know nothing clock person it seems that the chime selector may not be moving out of silent position even tho selector indicates it has moved. I would greatly appreciate your help.
Not much I can help with from here. Wish I could help remotely. See if you can find some clock forums to post the question or lookup a local horologist. Good luck.
Hello Sir, I am James from Scottsdale, Arizona. I have recently received a 1973 Tempus Fugit Grandfather clock that has been in the family since 1973. I have found your post extremely helpful but as I have come to find, I am missing a component that makes up the VERGE assembly. If I had to I could probably fabricate something but where would I be able to purchase components?
Appearantly I am missing the component that slides into the center of the cylinder or rod with a slat cut into it directly in the back of the dial. I have the pendulum and the oddly shaped key of sorts that the pendulum rides on I need the componet between the oddly shaped key and the cylinder with the slat cut into it. This cylinder has a set screw twist knob adjustment. Can I fabricate something to work or where can I obtain parts? Thank you in advance kind Sir!
Well you live in Scottsdale so just drive over to timesavers.com and ask for some help locating parts. They have great people there and tons of parts. If they can't find parts I'm sure somebody from the back room can point you in the right direction to fab a fix. Bring photos or the mechanism if possible.
Todd Harrison You are a good man Charlie Brown. I will consult with them and hopefully resolve concerns. I will let you know how it goes.
So, I got my grandfather clock 'cleaned/tuned up' and now it will not continue working. Even when I start the pendulum swinging, it goes for maybe four to five minutes and gradually slows to a stop. I have leveled the clock side-to-side and front-to-back, and the pendulum is not hitting any of the chimes, but it doesn't continue swinging for more than five minutes.
Any ideas of what I could look for to get this clock going for more than 5 minutes? Thanks.
Thank you so much just got a Hammond with a Hermele movement and your video was soooooo helpful. The previous owner never got it to work. We put chains on and it did.
Clean chain on grandfather clock
Hi. At the beginning of the video, you said you would show how to fix the chains if they've been pulled up too high after taking the weights off. Can you tell me how to do that? I can't find a fix video anywhere. I will look at your blog for this as well. Thanks
I don't have a video for that, sorry. Sometimes you can unscrew the weight canisters and drop the weights out the bottom of the tubes. This can give you enough room to unhook the top of the weights. Then remove the hocks, pull the chain through and then follow my video on re-threading the chains. If you can't take the hooks off because they are too high sometimes you can still pull the hooks and chain trough by pocking a wire around inside to fish the chain and hook around any gears and shafts. Hope that helps. Other than that you'll have to have a horologist service the clock.
I do have some questions. My clock weight barrel 2 is 8.4 lbs, and one is 13.4 lbs. If I put 13.4 pounds in the chime, it works, but 8.4 pounds does not work in the clock mechanism. But if I put 13.4 pounds in the clock mechanism, it works. How can I fix this problem? Please help.