Can you Overwind a grandfather clock?

Luckily, the truth is that you can’t over-wind your clock. Over-winding is basically a myth! Let’s take a look at what actually causes a clock to quit running or chiming after winding it up… A clock mainspring is made of spring steel and is about the width of a ruler (but not quite as thick).

How long does a grandfather clock stay wound?

Depending on the movement, key wound clocks will stay running one day, seven days, or thirty-one days. Weight driven clocks will usually run for seven days, and should be wound before the weights reach the bottom. While winding, watch the weights to make sure that they don’t hit the top or the pendulum.

Do all grandfather clocks need to be wound?

Almost all grandfather clocks are made to run for seven or eight days without winding, so winding them on the same day each week will ensure that it never stops. If your clock stops before its regular winding time, however, you may need to wind it more frequently.

How often does a grandfather clock need winding?

every seven days
Clocks with two and three gear sets will be able to chime on the hour and quarter hour respectively. Additionally, most clocks are set to run for eight days, before having to be wound. It’s always a good idea to wind them every seven days. By winding every seven days you prevent the clock from stopping.

How often do clocks need to be wound?

An eight-day clock should be wound once a week, as the mainspring loses power after seven days. A 30-hour clock should be wound daily; a good routine is to wind it every night before bedtime. The key should fit tightly.

How do you fix a grandfather clock 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.

How often should I oil my grandfather clock?

Oiling your clock every two years will prevent expensive clock repairs and ensure that your clock will last for the generations to come.

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.

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 often should you have a clock cleaned?

every 8 to 10 years
Your clock should be professionally cleaned every 8 to 10 years. Having your clock cleaned will assure you of keeping your heirloom in top condition for years to come. While oiling your clock is a good prevention against early wear and tear, cleaning it will remove all the dirt build-up that destroys good movements.

How often should a clock be cleaned?

Different Timeframe for Different Clocks

It is best to talk to a clock repairman to see what is recommended for your particular circumstance. Cuckoo clocks should be cleaned & oiled every 2-3 Years. Wall & Mantel clocks should be cleaned & oiled every 3-5 Years. Floor clocks should be cleaned & oiled every 3-5 Years.

How do you clean and oil a grandfather clock movement?

Use a non-ammonia glass cleaner and a soft lint-free cloth. Spray the cleaner directly on the cloth, then wipe down the glass outside the clock. Open both the large door that covers the pendulum and the small door that covers the clock face. Wipe down the inside.

How do you lubricate a grandfather clock?

How much does it cost to clean a clock?

American Antique Clocks

The average cost of cleaning the faces, cases, face-glass and internal movements can range from $375 to $475.

How long does a pendulum clock last?

Most quality clocks, including all grandfather clocks, have a “seconds pendulum”, in which each swing of the pendulum takes one second (a complete cycle takes two seconds), which is approximately one meter (39 in) long from pivot to center of bob.

Can you use WD40 on grandfather clock?

Don’t use 3-in-One or even worse, WD40. Both will impair the clock’s ability to work; modern clock oil is synthetic so much longer lasting than mineral or vegetable oils, which break down over time. Clock oils also contain rust inhibitors to protect the clock.

How do I clean the wood on my grandfather clock?

For medium to light woods like pine and oak use OLD ENGLISH Light Wood Scratch Cover. Continue until you cover the entire case of the grandfather clock case. Let the scratch cover penetrate the wood for a few minutes, then wipe clean with another absorbent cloth.