How to Troubleshoot a Tubular Grandfather Clock

Wind the clock fully to ensure it has enough mechanical energy stored to function properly. Most grandfather clocks need weekly windings to keep them running correctly and accurately.

Inspect the clock weights to verify they are hung in the correct positions. Many weights have a marking at the bottom of them specifying their proper positioning. A weight with an "L" on the bottom needs hanging on your left side as you face the clock. A weight marked "R" goes to the right and a weight with "C" hangs in the center. If the weights are in the wrong positions, the clock won't work properly and might act erratically with its time keeping and chiming. This is a common problem after the clock has been cleaned if the weights were removed and then put back improperly.

Adjust the pendulum speed of the clock if it runs too fast or too slow by turning the bolt at the bottom of the pendulum. This adjusts the height of the pendulum to correct the clock speed. Shorten the pendulum by turning the bolt to the right if the clock runs slow. Turn the bolt to the left to lengthen the pendulum and slow the clock if it runs fast. You might need a wrench to turn the bolt but be careful to not scratch the pendulum. Set the proper time after adjusting the pendulum and check the time 24 hours later. Readjust the bolt as necessary and repeat the procedure until the clock reads accurately for an extended period of time.

Place a level on the clock to verify it is properly balanced. If it leans even slightly one way or another, either because of to damage to the clock housing itself or because of an uneven floor, it might run out of beat. Level the clock as needed by placing a shim or a small piece of wood under the uneven side to correct the imbalance.

Bend the clock hands slightly if they come into contact with each other. This often results in sticking that throws off the time accuracy and affects the timing of the chimes. Manually pushing them slightly apart fixes the issue.

Inspect the tubular chimes if they don't sound right. Clean them off with a rag to remove any dirt that might affect sound quality. Stronger cleaning solvents might be needed if you see corrosion on them. The chimes need regular cleaning to keep them looking and sounding their best.

Adjust the minute hand if the clock chimes at the wrong time but the time itself is accurate. Remove the bolt holding the hand in place and pull the minute hand off. Turn the hand bushing forward by gripping its sides and set it to the time it is supposed to chime. Reattach the minute hand so it shows the proper chime time. Start the pendulum of the clock again and then set the current time.