How to Mount a Floating Balance Wheel Correctly

Many mechanical clocks use a floating balance wheel instead of a pendulum to regulate time. This type of escapement appears in modern Hermle, Kieninger, and other German movements, and while it’s reliable and compact, improper installation leads to poor timekeeping or total failure. Learning how to mount a floating balance wheel correctly ensures accurate, long-term operation.

Step 1: Understand the Floating Balance System

The floating balance wheel functions like a pendulum, but it oscillates side-to-side on a horizontal axis. It attaches to the top of the movement and regulates time through a fine balance spring and escapement wheel interaction.

A standard floating balance includes:

• A horizontal balance wheel with weights
• A balance spring (flat and coiled, like a hairspring)
• A platform mount for installation
• A pallet lever beneath that interfaces with the escape wheel

These systems are extremely sensitive to tilt, improper alignment, and even light damage. Proper handling and installation make all the difference.

Step 2: Inspect the Balance Assembly Before Installation

Before mounting the balance:

1. Check that the spring is intact with no kinks or twists.
2. Ensure the wheel spins freely when gently moved side-to-side.
3. Confirm the pallet lever moves smoothly and resets on its own.
4. Examine the mounting base for bent pins, corrosion, or stripped threads.

Never bend or twist the spring or balance wheel. If it looks off-center or misaligned, replace it instead of trying to repair it.

Step 3: Level the Clock Case Before Installation

Floating balance escapements must remain perfectly level to work properly.

• **Wall/Mantel Clocks:** Use a bubble level across the top and front edges of the case.
• **Grandfather Clocks (if applicable):** Level using adjustable feet or hardwood wedges under the base.

If the case is not level, the balance will not oscillate evenly, and the clock will stop.

Step 4: Mount the Floating Balance Wheel

To install the floating balance:

1. Locate the mounting slot or post at the top of the clock movement.
2. Carefully align the pins or screw holes on the balance platform to the base.
3. Tighten the mounting screw gently—but securely—without tilting the balance.
4. Make sure the pallet fork engages with the escape wheel below.
5. Gently nudge the balance wheel to one side and let it go. It should oscillate smoothly.

The balance must remain perfectly horizontal and move with a clean, even motion.

Step 5: Start and Test the Balance Oscillation

Once installed:

1. Wind the clock or apply power to the movement.
2. Gently move the balance wheel in one direction and release.
3. The wheel should oscillate back and forth 5–10 times before settling.
4. If it only swings once or twice, check for friction, imbalance, or mounting issues.

Listen for:

• A consistent tick
• No dragging, scraping, or buzzing
• Smooth spring tension with a uniform beat

If the balance stops quickly or moves unevenly, recheck the case level and ensure the mounting screw sits flat.

Step 6: Adjust for Proper Beat

If the clock ticks unevenly (e.g., tick…tock……tick), the escapement is out of beat.

To adjust:

1. Slightly tilt the platform left or right by loosening and re-tightening the screw in a corrected position.
2. Alternatively, carefully rotate the balance cock (mount) slightly to shift the beat.
3. Make minor changes only, then test the swing again.

When in beat, the ticking becomes even and symmetrical, and the balance will swing freely for several seconds.

Step 7: Troubleshoot Common Problems

If your floating balance won’t run or keep time:

Balance barely moves

• Check for friction in the pallet lever
• Clean pivot points—no oil on the spring
• Confirm escape wheel teeth are not bent or jammed

Clock runs too fast or slow

• Adjust the regulator arm on the balance spring
• Move it toward “S” (slow) or “F” (fast) markings
• Make very small adjustments—then test for 24 hours

Intermittent ticking

• Recheck leveling
• Look for loose or uneven screws
• Inspect pallet fork engagement with the escape wheel

Step 8: Maintain the Balance Assembly

Once working:

• Never oil the spring or wheel—keep all parts dry
• Dust occasionally using a blower or soft brush
• Avoid moving the clock abruptly once level
• Recheck alignment after any transport or cleaning

Clean the rest of the movement every 5–7 years and service the floating balance with gentle care only when necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Oiling the spring or wheel — This causes drag and failure.

Forcing the mount — Always align the balance without pressure.

Skipping case leveling — The balance won’t oscillate correctly if the clock leans.

Over-adjusting the regulator — Large swings throw off timing.

Ignoring a damaged balance spring — Always replace kinked or bent springs.

Summary

Mounting a floating balance wheel correctly is the key to reliable timekeeping in clocks that don’t use pendulums. Focus on leveling the case, aligning the pallet fork, and avoiding oil or pressure on sensitive parts. With precise adjustments and careful installation, your clock will tick smoothly for years. For quality balance parts and guidance, visit Clockworks.com or email clockworks@clockworks.com—we’re here to help you restore and maintain your timepiece.

Updated on: 28/09/2025