How do grandfather clocks keep going?

As it swings from side to side, it rocks a lever called an escapement that locks and then unlocks the part of the mechanism driven by the falling weight. … Since (in theory, at least) a pendulum of a certain length always takes the same amount of time to swing back and forth, the pendulum is what keeps the clock to time.

What are the 3 weights for on a Grandfather Clock?

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.

What keeps pendulum swinging?

The science behind the pendulum is explained through the forces of gravity and inertia. The Earth’s gravity attracts the pendulum. … This means that since the pendulum is now in motion, it keeps moving, unless there is a force that acts to make it stop. Gravity works on the pendulum while it is moving.

Does a Grandfather Clock need winding?

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.

Where does the heaviest weight go on a grandfather clock?

If there is no markings to identify the weights, hang the heaviest weight on the right side as it needs more power to run all of the chime hammers. The other two equal or lighter weights should be placed in any order on the left side and center position. This will usually work on most grandfather clocks.

Which weight is heaviest 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.

Do you stop pendulum to wind clock?

Can I wind my clock when the pendulum is moving, or should I stop it before winding? You can wind your clock when the pendulum is moving. It doesn’t matter either way. I accidentally moved the hour hand on my clock, and now it won’t keep correct time.

Why won’t My grandfather clock stay running?

Your clock needs to have an even “tick”. If the tick sounds comparable to a guy walking with a limp, it won’t run. The pendulum needs to travel an EVEN distance after each tick. If it doesn’t, it will stop.

How much does it cost to service a grandfather clock?

The cost of servicing a grandfather clock can vary between $100 and $2,500, depending on what services are necessary. Normal servicing is not too costly while repairing and replacing parts can quickly add up. Major factors that impact the cost include: The type of clock and internal mechanisms.

Why does the pendulum stop swinging on my grandfather clock?

The reason a clock pendulum often stops swinging, after being moved, is because the clock case now leans at a slightly different angle then it did at its former location. … A clock is “in beat” when the tick and the tock are evenly spaced.

Why won’t my pendulum keep swinging?

If a clock is out of beat, the pendulum will swing for a few minutes, then stop even if the clock case is level. … This can be done by either try leveling again from left to right by moving the clock very slightly from the bottom until you hear the most even tick-tock.

What is the crutch on a pendulum clock?

The crutch is the thin brass rod that connects the escapement to the pendulum. It extends from the upper part of the clock movement down along the pendulum suspension rod and loops once around the suspension rod at its bottom point.

Why is only the middle weight dropping on 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.

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. … The two heavier weights go on the center and right hooks or pulleys.

How do I reset a pendulum clock?

How to Reset My Chiming Clock
  1. Place one forefinger gently on the minute hand and push it lightly over to the number 12. Your clock will now naturally emit a series of chimes. …
  2. Move the hour hand very gently to this number on the clock face. …
  3. Push the minute hand around the clock until the clock displays the actual time.

Why does my grandfather clock not chime on the hour?

If your grandfather clock is not striking exactly on the hour and the deviation is less than 15 minutes, you may adjust the minute hand to get it as close as you wish to an exact hour strike. You may have to do this several times to get it right as it is a trial and error method.

Where is the chime lever on a grandfather clock?

The chime selection lever is usually on the right side of the dial by the number 3. However, it may be on the left side by the 9 or even at the top by the 12. Instead of a chime silent lever, some clocks have a rod that hangs below the dial which is pushed up or pulled down to silence the chimes.

How do you fix a grandfather clock that is wound to tight?

Strike weight stuck

With some cloth gloves on, or at least a cloth of some kind, pull down on the weight some. Again, this is the same as making the weight weigh more. Doing this will make the clock strike. Advance the minute hand and let it chime each quarter until it plays the top of the hour song.