How to Repair a Clock Pendulum That Stopped

Pendulum clocks require repair from time to time.

A pendulum clock adds a nice, antique touch to your home decor. A clock with a broken pendulum might cause you worry over an expensive repair. Some repairs are often accomplished at home, in particular if the pendulum has stalled. Perform a bit of research and troubleshooting before dismantling your your clock and bringing it back to working order.

Things You'll Need

• Level
• Shims

Instructions

1. Set the pendulum clock of a surface that is perfectly level. An unlevel surface often causes the pendulum to stall. Lay a level alongside the cabinet of the clock to determine if it is in a stationary position. Pendulums frequently stop swinging simple because the clock was moved, and is leaning at an angle.

2. Place shims under the base of the clock to level it. Shims often help if the clock appears to be uneven, or if the the pendulum rubs against the back wall of the case.

3. Pull the pendulum to one side, and then release it. Listen for the ticking sound every time it reaches the end of its arc. If the ticking sound is uneven, the clock is ''out of beat." Fix your ''out of beat'' clock by ensuring all arbors are wound, and that nothing is obstructing the pendulum's path.

4. Check if the hands are touching against one another. Push the hour hand toward the dial if this is the case. Pushing the hour hand clears space for the minute hand. Bend the minute hand slightly toward you, providing clearance for the hour hand.

5. Bend the verge, the wire that holds the hands of the pendulum in place. Sometimes the verge bends slightly when the clock is moved. This affects the swinging motion of the pendulum, and causes it to stall.

Tips & Warnings

• Ensure the clocks weights are in the correct positions.

References

• Solvang Antique Center: Putting Your Clock inti
• How to Repair Clocks: Pendulum Will not Swing
• Clock Repair.Org: Pendulum Clock Repair