How to move a Grandfather Clock

How to move a grandfather clock

Moving a Grandfather Clock can be a very challenging task. Before doing so, you should really think about if you're fully capable of completing the job or if it might be easier and safer to hire professionals to do it for you. If however you decide to do the move yourself, we've compiled a step-by-step guide to help you out.

Pendulum

Start by removing the pendulum from the clock, you never want to move a grandfather clock with its pendulum or weights still attached, not even across the room! This could easily damage the clock’s movement kit and it could cause the pendulum to break.

Cables and weights

If the clock has cable holding the weights, make a loose roll of newspaper, about 2 inches in diameter, and hold above the pulley as the weights are wound until they stop with the paper jammed above the pulleys. This will stop the cable from getting tangled when the weights are removed. Be very careful not to damage the suspension spring where the pendulums top meets the clock’s movement. Once removed be sure the pendulum is well packed in its original box, this will prevent it from breaking during the transportation.

Chains

For clocks with chains, you will need to raise the weights so that the clock is about half wound. Use a thin piece of wire to string the chains together just where the chains overhang the movement and tie the wire together. Once you have detached the weights, a good thing to do is label them so you know which is which when it comes to reassemble the grandfather clock. If they get mixed up it could cause the clock to not work properly and it could even damage the clocks mechanical movement.

Tubes

For tubular movements, remove the tubes and keep a note of their position for when you are putting it back together.

Additional Parts

Before moving the clock make sure that the movement is either mounted securely in the case or removed. It may be an idea to remove any additional parts, even if they are properly secured, moving the clock could cause them to come loose. Whether it’s a sliding hood or glass shelves it’s always a good idea to remove them.

Case

If you are moving your clock to another location then the case and movement should be packed in a rigid container. It’s always the best idea to get this done professionally to prevent any damage done to the clock. The grandfather clock can then be carried with the help of more than one person to the truck or van you are using.

Installation

To install your clock you will need to reattach the pendulum just as it was before, then reattach the weights in the same position as they were before the move also.

Tick tock

Ensure that the tick-tock sound is balanced and set the clock to the correct time and hey presto!

Trying to move a Grandfather Clock can be dangerous, complicated and hard work. Why not get a quote for a professional moving service?

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