Introduction
When a clock strikes several minutes early or late—such as 7 minutes off—the issue is almost always in the motion works, not the strike train. This guide explains how to realign the minute hand, how the motion works interact with the strike release, and how to verify that the escapement, oiling, and pendulum rod and spring are all functioning correctly.
Why the Minute Hand Gets Out of Sync
Friction-fit minute hand bushing
Many clocks use a friction bushing that allows the hand to be repositioned without affecting the strike train.
Incorrect hand installation
If the hand was removed and reinstalled, it may not have been aligned with the strike release point.
Loose or worn motion works
Wear in the minute wheel or cannon pinion can cause drift or inconsistent strike timing.
Strike release cam misalignment
The cam on the minute hand shaft must lift the strike lever at the correct moment.
Over-oiling or dried oil
Old oil or excess oil can cause drag in the motion works, affecting timing.
How to Correct the Minute-Hand Alignment
Step 1: Move the minute hand to the hour
Let the clock strike fully at the top of the hour.
Step 2: Remove the minute hand
Loosen the hand nut and pull the hand straight off.
Step 3: Reposition the hand
Place the hand back on the arbor pointing exactly at 12.
Step 4: Tighten the hand nut
Ensure the hand is snug but not overly tight.
Step 5: Test the strike timing
Advance the minute hand and confirm the strike occurs at the correct moment.
Additional Checks to Ensure Proper Operation
Check the motion works
Ensure the minute wheel, cannon pinion, and intermediate wheels turn freely.
Inspect the escape wheel
Verify clean lock and drop. Fluttering indicates power or beat issues.
Check for proper oiling
Oil only the pivots—never the escape wheel teeth or pallets.
Verify strike release lever movement
The lever should lift smoothly and drop cleanly at the strike point.
Check for hand drag
Ensure the minute hand does not rub the hour hand or dial.
Pendulum Rod and Spring Considerations
Ensure the suspension spring hangs straight
A twisted or bent spring affects beat and power delivery.
Check pendulum rod alignment
The rod must sit freely in the crutch loop with slight side play.
Set the beat
Adjust the crutch until the tick and tock are evenly spaced.
Verify pendulum clearance
Ensure the pendulum does not rub the case or weights.
Check for proper amplitude
A healthy swing indicates adequate power and correct alignment.
Troubleshooting Flowcharts
If the strike is still early or late
Reposition hand → Check motion works → Check strike cam → Check lever lift
If the hand drifts over time
Check friction bushing → Check cannon pinion → Check oiling
If the escape wheel flutters
Beat off → Pallet depth incorrect → Power loss
If the clock stops after adjustment
Check pendulum spring → Check crutch → Check pivot wear → Check oil
If the minute hand binds
Check hand clearance → Check dial → Check hand nut tension
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forcing the minute hand
Always remove and reposition—never twist against resistance.
Over-oiling the motion works
Oil attracts dirt and causes drag.
Ignoring beat adjustment
An uneven beat causes power loss and timing drift.
Oiling the escapement
The escape wheel and pallets must run dry.
Not checking hand clearance
Hands rubbing the dial cause timing errors.
Checklist for Final Verification
• Minute hand aligned at 12
• Strike occurs exactly on the hour
• Motion works turn freely
• Escape wheel locks and drops correctly
• Pendulum rod and spring aligned
• Beat even and stable
• Clock runs full duration
FAQs
Why is my strike 7 minutes early?
The minute hand is misaligned on its friction bushing.
Do I need to adjust the strike train?
No—only the hand position needs correction.
Should I oil the motion works?
Only the pivots—never the gears or escapement.
Why does the clock stop after fixing the hand?
Beat may be off or the pendulum spring may be twisted.
Can this happen again?
Yes—if the hand is bumped or installed incorrectly.
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