How To Clean And Perfect My Pirouettes And Chains?

Adjusting the chains on a weighted grandfather clock

• Recently I had to prepare my chain/weighted grandfather clock to be moved to a new residence. I let the 3 weighted chains wind down approximately 6", and then I removed the weights and taped the 6" of exposed chains together with painters tape to protect the glass from breaking. Apparently the mover ,not knowing that I had already removed the weights, pulled each of the 3 "empty" chains as far as they would go, resulting in two of the chains "locking up" on the spindle and the third chain being pulled completely off. Question: How difficult a repair is this, and is it something that I can do myself (and if so, how?), or is it best left to a professional?

• Answer:

  It is a job easier done with the movement out of the case. You need to tip the movement upside down. If you can get the movement out it is just a matter of getting the chains loose and lifting them off the sprockets that they are riding on. If the movement has not been serviced in a while it might be worth while to take the movement out and take it to a shop and have them check and oil and get the chains back in place.