Common Clock Problems and What They Mean
A wooden mantel clock sits on a workbench beneath the title "Common Clock Problems and What They Mean," with a list of issues like stopping, chime errors, and speed problems, surrounded by clock repair tools in a workshop.
Blog Title:
Common Clock Problems and What They Mean
Series: Time Well Spent – Caring for Your Clocks & Watches
By John Haines, Liberty Clock Repair
When a clock starts acting up, it can be frustrating — especially if it’s a family heirloom or a treasured antique. But most clock issues are actually signs, not mysteries.
At Liberty Clock Repair, I’ve worked with hundreds of clocks, and many problems fall into a few familiar categories. In this post, I’ll help you understand what your clock is trying to tell you — and when it’s time to bring it in for service.
🔔 Problem 1: The Clock Has Stopped Running
Possible Causes:
It’s out of beat (pendulum isn’t swinging evenly)
Mainspring is broken or overwound
Old oil has dried up and gummed the movement
Weights or hands are not properly set
What It Means:
A full cleaning and adjustment may be needed, especially if the clock hasn’t been serviced in years. In mechanical clocks, dried lubricant is the #1 cause of stopping.
🐦 Problem 2: My Cuckoo Clock’s Bird Won’t Come Out
Possible Causes:
Bellows are torn or disconnected
Music box or lever is jammed
Weight cords are tangled
Improper hanging or imbalance
What It Means:
Cuckoo clocks have several delicate moving parts. If one element is off, the whole performance fails. This often requires a careful internal adjustment.
⏰ Problem 3: The Chimes Are Wrong (Or Missing)
Possible Causes:
Hammer is out of alignment
Chime barrel is dirty or stuck
Strike train is misaligned
Silent/night mode accidentally activated
What It Means:
Misfiring chimes often indicate wear or poor lubrication. Sometimes it’s a simple fix — other times it requires a partial teardown and adjustment.
🌀 Problem 4: My Clock Runs Too Fast or Too Slow
Possible Causes:
Pendulum bob is too high or too low
Mainspring tension is uneven
Escapement needs regulation
Poor leveling or vibration in the setup location
What It Means:
This is usually a regulation issue, and easily corrected once the underlying cause is addressed. It’s also a common symptom of overdue maintenance.
⚠️ Problem 5: It Just Doesn’t “Sound” Right
Possible Causes:
The tick-tock rhythm sounds off
Gear teeth are skipping
Bushings are worn
The beat is out of alignment
What It Means:
If your clock sounds wrong, it probably is wrong. Ticking should be even, steady, and relaxed. An uneven beat often means wear or misalignment inside the movement.
🧰 When to Bring It In
If your clock is showing any of these signs — or just hasn’t been looked at in a long time — it’s likely due for service. Regular maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming big, expensive ones.
📫 Need help diagnosing your clock?
Send me a message at second.wind.japan@gmail.com or visit www.LibertyClockRepair.com to book a check-up or request an estimate.
Next in the series:
How to Care for Your Clock Between Services
