How Do You Repair a Grandfather Clock the Right Way?

Grandfather Clock Repair Guide

A grandfather clock is more than just a timepiece — it’s a family heirloom, a work of art, and often, a cherished memory. But when it stops ticking, chimes out of sync, or refuses to run, many people are left wondering what to do next. Repairing a grandfather clock may seem intimidating at first, but understanding the process, common issues, and your options can help you make the right decision — and save you time and money.

What Are the Most Common Issues with Grandfather Clocks?

Grandfather clocks are mechanical marvels, but they aren’t immune to wear and tear. The most common problems include:

• Clock stops running: Often caused by dirt buildup, dried oil, or a misaligned pendulum.
• Chimes are off or not striking at all: Could be an issue with the hammers, chime rods, or the movement’s lifting silence switch.
• Clock runs too fast or too slow: This usually points to pendulum length or suspension spring issues.
• Weights not dropping: Could indicate that cables or chains are off the pulley or jammed.
• Ticking sounds uneven: Known as being “out of beat,” which often results from the clock not sitting level.

These issues don’t always require full restoration — sometimes, a quick adjustment or simple part replacement can solve the problem.

Can You Fix a Grandfather Clock Yourself?

Yes, but only to a point. Many clock owners successfully handle basic maintenance tasks, especially if they follow clear instructions and use the right tools. You can:

• Level the clock case: Use a bubble level on both side-to-side and front-to-back axes.
• Adjust the beat: Gently move the pendulum’s crutch until the tick-tock sound is even.
• Replace suspension springs or pendulum parts: These are delicate but replaceable with minimal tools.
• Clean the case and glass: Use non-abrasive products to protect finishes.
• Install a new movement: If your movement is worn beyond simple fixes, replacement may be quicker and more cost-effective than a rebuild.

Clockworks.com offers a wide selection of replacement parts — from suspension springs to full Hermle and Kieninger movements — making it easy for anyone to order exactly what they need.

When Should You Call a Professional?

If your grandfather clock hasn’t been serviced in over 10 years, runs erratically, or requires disassembly, it’s best to call in a professional. Internal wear may be too extensive for at-home solutions. Also, never attempt to oil or clean the movement without proper training. Over-oiling or using the wrong cleaner can cause more harm than good.

Professional services include:

• Ultrasonic cleaning and oiling of the movement
• Bushing installation for worn pivot holes
• Pendulum regulation and chime synchronization
• Gear train inspection and repair

At Clockworks, our repair team can handle a full range of restoration services. For particularly rare or antique grandfather clocks, expert evaluation and cleaning help preserve the value and functionality of the timepiece.

Should You Repair or Replace the Movement?

This is the single most important question most clock owners face.

Repairing a movement requires complete disassembly, ultrasonic cleaning, pivot polishing, bushing worn holes, oiling, and precise reassembly. It’s labor-intensive and time-consuming — and may cost several hundred dollars.

Replacing the movement is often cheaper, faster, and provides better long-term results. If the clock has a Hermle or Kieninger movement from the past 50 years, chances are high you can buy the exact match brand-new — often for less than half the price of a full overhaul. It’s not a knockoff — it’s the original manufacturer, just brand new.

Installation takes about 10–15 minutes for someone familiar with clock repair, and even beginners can follow our email instructions and support guides. You keep the original dial, hands, weights, and chime rods — only the mechanism itself changes.

What Tools or Parts Might You Need?

To repair or replace your grandfather clock movement, you may need:

• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers – For removing the dial, hands, and mounting hardware.
• Pliers (needle-nose and standard) – Useful for gripping pins, adjusting wires, or removing stubborn parts.
• High Grade Clock Oil – For precise lubrication of pivots and gear trains (use sparingly and only if you know where to oil).
• Bubble level – Ensures the clock case is properly leveled for accurate operation.

Can You Identify the Movement to Get the Right Parts?

Yes — and you must. Look at the backplate of your grandfather clock movement. You’ll find a stamped model number — often including a manufacturer’s name like Hermle, Kieninger, or Urgos, along with a 4-digit number (e.g., 1161-853). That number tells you everything: chime type, gear train layout, and mounting requirements.

Once you have that info, use our website’s search tool or movement match chart. You’ll see an exact replacement match if available. Still unsure? Send us a photo, and we’ll help you identify it.

What Happens If You Do Nothing?

Clocks are built to run continuously. If they sit idle for too long, oil dries up, dust accumulates, and parts seize. Eventually, the movement may fail entirely. That’s why it’s smart to keep your clock running or to service or replace it if it hasn’t been touched in over 7–10 years.

Don’t wait for the chimes to go silent permanently. A simple repair or affordable movement swap can restore your grandfather clock to perfect working condition.

To explore replacement movements, find parts, or ask a question, visit Clockworks.com or email us at clockworks@clockworks.com.

Updated on: 28/09/2025