Things You'll Need:
- Wood splints
- Screwdriver
- Contractor's level
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Step 1
Find out if your clock was manufactured before 1960. Clocks made before 1960 are considered antique and are often different in style and parts than clocks made after 1960. There should be a paper or tin label on the back or inside the clock to tell you this if you don't know.
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Step 2
Level the entire clock. If the clock is out of alignment, none of the parts inside will work properly. If you move the clock, place a contractor's level directly alongside the clock. If the bubble inside the level is off, level the clock until it is even. For floor clocks, use a small splint of wood to level the clock. For wall clocks, simply move the clock in the direction needed. In either case, this should only be a slight move. If this doesn't solve the problem, try the next solution.
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Step 3
Check the alignment of the weights inside the clock. The weights must be located properly. You can find the size of the weights by the markings on the bottom of the weights. Align the weights left to right. The weights should read "L" (left), "C" (center) and "R" (right).
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Step 4
Check to see if the hands on the clock face have become locked or tangled together. Open the glass cover on the clock face. Move the hands away from each other by gently rotating them in opposite directions until they are moving freely. Move the hour hand past the minute hand to restart the clock. Readjust the time to get the proper time. Make sure that the weights have been pulled up.
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Step 5
Using a small screwdriver, free the pendulum bob to move it up or down for adjustment. The pendulum bob goes up to speed up the clock, and down to slow the clock down. If the bob seems stuck, use a shot of WD40 to lubricate it.
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Step 6
If your grandfather clock still is not working properly, consult the telephone book for a clock shop in your community. They will possibly have a certified clock repair person on staff. Make sure they are insured and have references.
