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How to Free Up a Weight on a Grandfather Clock

Maintaining a grandfather clock is a joy to collectors and antique lovers. Filling the home with the vintage ticking and chiming of a grandfather clock may be exactly what is needed to complete the illusion of the past. Both genuine and replica grandfather clocks are run by the descending of weights suspended from either cables or chains. The clock stops if the cables or chains become tangled; it cannot be restarted until the weights are free.

Things You'll Need

Grandfather clock
Large or medium size bubble level.
Thin wood shims

Instructions

Free the weights of a grandfather clock
- 1
  Open the clock door and observe the condition of the cables or chains. Check to see that the weights are marked "L," "R" and "C" on the bottom where it cannot be seen; use a marker to mark the weights as they are removed. Gently remove the weights, two or three depending on the style of the clock. Disentangle the chains or cables so they hang freely inside the cabinet of the clock.
- 2
  Reattach the weights following the new markings or the manufacturer's markings. The heaviest weight should be on right side as you face the clock; the lighter weight should be on the left. Close the clock door to check that the weights do not touch the door when it is closed.
- 3
  Adjust the length of the cables or chains so that the heavier, right-hand weight is abut 1/2-inch lower than the left. Check to see that the weights, pendulum and clock door do not touch each other and can move freely.
- 4
  Check to see that the clock is level from side-to-side and back-to-front. Add shims to the base of the clock if necessary. A grandfather clock must be as perfectly level as possible to run properly. Do not move the clock unless it is necessary. Level it each time if it must be moved.
- 5
  Wind the clock by raising the weights to the top with the pulleys attached. Keep the right-hand weight somewhat lower than the left at the top. Start the clock by setting it for the correct time. Follow the directions for starting the mechanism.

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