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How to Take a Hand Off a Clock

Trying to fix a clock can be extremely intimidating, especially with all the gears, nuts and bolts that help keep it together and running smoothly. But removing hands from a clock is relatively simple and takes little time, if you know what to look for and how to do it. Most clock hands are attached by friction fitting. Other clock hands require very little trouble to remove. Friction-fitted hands are the easiest to take off, as they are not held down by any other pieces but are simply slipped into place. Use extreme care when handling clock hands, as they can bend easily if gripped too tightly.

Things You'll Need

Needlenose pliers
Small pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Determine how the hands are attached to the clock. Some clocks use a simple pin and collet, or washer, to hold the hands in place, while others are attached using a small nut.
- 2
  For hands that are attached by a pin, remove the pin using needlenose pliers. Grip the wider end of the pin with the pliers and gently pull it out of the collet. Gently pull the collet off and remove the minute and hour hands.
- 3
  For hands attached by a nut, remove the nut using your fingers or a pair of small pliers. Hold the minute hand with one hand as close to the nut as possible to stabilize it. Use your other hand or the pliers to unscrew the nut. Gently remove the clock hands.

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