How To Properly Move A Grandfather Clock – 7 Basic Rules:
![Packing The Parts Separately](http://cloud.mymovingreviews.com/move/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Moving-Grandfather-clock-packing-of-parts4.jpg)
Have you ever wondered how heavy a grandfather clock might be? Yes, we’re talking about those massive six to eight feet in height, long case, freestanding, weight-driven clocks (also referred to as pendulum clocks), which are widely appreciated for their decorative and antique value. If you have ever had a chance to take a close look at those mechanical pieces of art, you’ve probably noticed their fine ornaments, stylish finishing and complicated, fine-tuned clockwork comprised of numerous gears and springs.
One question naturally occurring, is how to properly move such a heavy and delicate timekeeping device, whether in home, across the street to a new home, moving to a new city nearby, or even shipping it overseas without doing any harm to its exterior, glass parts and fine mechanics. As it usually appears in life, there is no singe rule that can apply for all cases and pretending to be completely comprehensive and accurate, so we can provide you with a list of basic tips you should consider when facing such a complicated moving task. Here they are:
One question naturally occurring, is how to properly move such a heavy and delicate timekeeping device, whether in home, across the street to a new home, moving to a new city nearby, or even shipping it overseas without doing any harm to its exterior, glass parts and fine mechanics. As it usually appears in life, there is no singe rule that can apply for all cases and pretending to be completely comprehensive and accurate, so we can provide you with a list of basic tips you should consider when facing such a complicated moving task. Here they are:
- First and most important – never move a grandfather clock, even across the room, with its weights and pendulum attached. Not only can this easily damage the clock’s movement kit, but it can also cause the pendulum to break, as well as possibly allowing the weights to swing in the case and break or damage the glass and case.
- One relatively easy step to start with is to remove the pendulum. If it is made of brass, use a soft cloth or cotton gloves. The same applies when handling all the brass or glass pieces. Be very careful not to damage the suspension spring where the pendulum’s top meets the clock’s movement. Once removed, be sure the pendulum is well packed in its original box which will prevent it from breaking during the transportation.
- The next important step is to carefully detach the weights. After removing them, good thing to do is to label the weights so that you know which is which when it comes to reassemble the grandfather clock. A simple R for right and L for left would do the job. This is necessary for the weights usually do not weigh the same and mixing them up can cause serious performance issues and even damage the clock’s mechanical movement. Always pack the weights separately and never put them inside the clock’s case, this would only ask for damage to the clock’s case and the clock itself.
- While removing the weights from the clock’s cables or chains, one must be very careful to ensure both that the cables and chains do not get intertwined with each other or snap back into the clock’s movement. A simple solution for both problems is to put a piece of cardboard behind the cable or chain and tape it to it. When all chains or cables are attached to the cardboard and the weights are detached this would do a very good job ensuring that they will not cross over or move up into clock’s movement or get misaligned.
Carefully pack all removable parts separately and label the boxes. This ensure save transportation and easy reassembly of the clock. - We usually do recommend building a customized wooden crate for the grandfather clock and padding it well using bubble wrap. It substantially minimizes the risk of damage during transit and may be necessary or required for many moving companies. One less-costly alternative include blanket wrapping your grandfather clock, but remember that although it cut costs, this method also increases the risk of damaging the clock.
- If your grandfather clock has removable glass shelves, it is strongly recommended to remove them prior to moving the clock. Even though they may seem securely attached in place, shelves can shift during the moving process and easily damage the clock. Pack the glass shelves in an appropriate packaging to prevent breaking them apart. The same applies for the ornaments if the grandfather clock has any – they should be removed and packed separately for safe transportation. Otherwise they may easily fall and break or damage the clock itself.
- An important aspect to consider when moving your grandfather clock is to make certain decisions based on your individual clock’s configuration. An example is whether your grandfather clock has a sliding hood. If it is removable, it might make sense to take it off and pack it separately. Doing so, on the other hand, may expose the clock’s mechanical movement, so it is a kind of a tradeoff based on your own opinion, costs and even supplies available.
- One final, bonus tip: always bear in mind that for each and every case there will be additional adjustments needed for properly moving the clock. Do not just strictly follow the above tips – use your own judgment to ensure the safest moving circumstances for your grandfather clock. As disassembling and preparing your clock for relocation is a delicate process, you can always contact Clock Assemlbling/Disassembling Proffessionals to do the job. They’ll be glad to come with proper specialized boxes and packing materials needed for the internal preparation of your clock.
Finally, having in mind their price and high value for the family, it is important to take a great care when you consider moving your grandfather clocks. And, as seen above, this could turn out to be quite a challenging and elaborate task. Hiring a reputable mover near you, who can guarantee that your valued clock reaches its final destination in good shape, always pays off.
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