Sage-Tips

How many weights should a grandfather clock have?

three weights
The three weights provide power to the hour strike (left weight), time (center weight), and chime melody (right weight). Without these weights, the Grandfather Clock would not operate. Each weight is different and must be properly hung from the movement (left, center, right) to ensure proper operation.

How heavy are grandfather clock weights?

Grandfather Clocks weigh anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds and require special attention when moving them from one place to another.

What are the weights called on a grandfather clock?

Pendulum or Weights Pendulums are the oscillating objects seen in long-case clocks and are most prominent feature associated with antique clocks. A pendulum or weight is suspended from a pivot so that they oscillate. The time taken by a pendulum to swing from left to right is essential in calculating time.

Where does the lightest weight go on a grandfather clock?

If there is no markings to identify the weights, hang the heaviest weight on the right side as it needs more power to run all of the chime hammers. The other two equal or lighter weights should be placed in any order on the left side and center position. This will usually work on most grandfather clocks.

Which weight is heaviest on a grandfather clock?

The heaviest weight is “R,” the next heaviest is “C” and the lightest is “L.” Open the door to the clock. Grab the chain on the left-hand side. It has a small brass plate with a hole in it attached to one end.

Should the weights on a grandfather clock drop evenly?

Yes, the order is critical for proper function. On 99\% of floor clocks (grandfather/grandmother) with three weights, the heavier weight goes on the right-hand chain hook or pulley as you are FACING the clock.

Which weight is the heaviest on a grandfather clock?

How do I fix the weights on my grandfather clock?

A clock can be overwound, resulting in the weights being stuck in the highest position. When this happens, gently move the minute hand past the quarter hour and listen for the chime. This should release the weight. When winding, be sure you can see the top of the weight and then stop to avoid overwinding.

What do the two weights in a grandfather clock do?

Understanding Grandfather Clock Weights The left weight powers the hour and the number of chimes to coordinate with the hour. The middle weight powers the pendulum, and the right weight powers the melody you hear.

How do I put the weights on my grandfather clock?

Grandfather clocks are weight driven. Pick up the weights one at a time and turn them upside down. Look for the letters “L,” “R,” or “C.” Arrange them left to right on the floor in front of the clock with “L” being the left hand weight, “C” being the center weight and “R” being the right hand weight.

Why do some grandfather clocks have two weights?

The left weight provides power for the hour strike, the middle weight provides power for the clock’s pendulum and general timekeeping functions, while the right weight provides power for the quarter-hour chime sequences.

How do you set the weights on a grandfather clock?

How many weights does a grandfather clock have?

Most modern grandfather clocks will use three weights where each of the three have their own function. One most grandfather clocks: 1) Right weight powers the chime melody. 2) Middle weight powers the pendulum. 3) Left weight powers the hour strike. The weights are filled with cast iron within a brass casing and are quite heavy.

Why is my grandfather clock stuck in the high position?

The Grandfather clock weights can get stuck in the high position if over wound. Some larger clocks have over wind protection to prevent this. The grandmother and grandfather chain drive units often do not have this feature.

How do you run a grandfather clock for 7 days?

Insert the crank into the crank holes located in the dial face and turn the crank and you will hear a ratchet clicking while the weights are rising. You cannot overwind the Grandfather Clock and the weights need to be near the top to run the Grandfather Clock for 7 days.

What happens if the weight of a clock is too heavy?

If the weights are a little too heavy it is fine. A lighter weight may or may not be fine because it may not trigger the movement to work as designed. Grandfather clock Weights are not cheap mainly because they are so heavy to keep, ship, store, move from here to there.