The Jauch PL 96 is a high-quality 5-tube grandfather clock movement that powered many American-made clocks, including those from Colonial and Herschede. Because Jauch is no longer in business, these movements require specialized care to maintain their authenticity and value. A standard overhaul for a jauch clock movement of this vintage often involves intensive rebushing—sometimes requiring 20 or more new bushings—to correct the pivot wear that naturally occurs over decades of operation.
Quick Diagnostic Flow: Jauch PL 96 Chime & Strike Issues
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1. Does the clock chime correctly but at the wrong time?
- → Yes: The minute hand may be out of sync with the hand shaft. Loosen the hand nut and rotate the minute hand bushing until it points to the 12:00 mark when it activates.
- → No: Proceed to Mechanical Binding Check.
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2. Does the chime sequence fail to start at the quarter-hour?
- → Yes: Inspect the jauch clock movement chime warning wheel for a loose brass wheel on the arbor, a common failure point that prevents power from reaching the chime train.
- → No: Proceed to Weight/Power Check.
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3. Does the chime stop halfway through or sound sluggish?
- → Yes: Ensure the jauch clock weights are fully wound and the movement is properly oiled with synthetic grease on the chime barrel teeth.
- → No: The movement may require a professional rebuild to address internal wear.
When performing a rebuild, it is essential to clean and polish all 15 gear shafts and their pivots before pressing in new bushings. For the chime assembly specifically, using a synthetic grease on the activator teeth of the chime barrel can ensure a smooth strike against the tubes. If the original jauch clock movement is beyond repair due to excessive rust or missing parts, some restorers opt for a conversion kit as a modern alternative to keep the case functional.
Sourcing jauch clock movement parts like the chime warning wheel or suspension springs requires matching the "PL" marking on the back plate, which indicates the pendulum length in centimeters. The PL 96, for instance, is designed for a large plate approximately 6" x 9" and requires a specific suspension spring to maintain the correct oscillation for accurate timekeeping.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I still buy new Jauch clock movements?
No, Jauch is no longer in business. You must either have your existing movement professionally rebuilt or use a conversion kit to replace it.
2. How often should I wind my Jauch 8-day grandfather clock?
You should wind your clock fully every 7 days, though most will run for 8–9 days on a single winding.
3. What does "PL 96" mean on the back of my movement?
"PL" stands for Pendulum Length, and "96" is the measurement in centimeters from the suspension point to the tip of the pendulum.
4. Why does the chime start playing only after an hour of operation?
Some chime movements require an hour or more of run time to self-synchronize and begin the quarter-hour chime cycle.
5. What type of oil is best for the Jauch chime barrel?
It is recommended to use a small dab of synthetic grease on the activator teeth of the chime barrel to reduce friction during striking.
6. Is it better to repair my Jauch movement or replace it?
Repairing or rebuilding maintains the original integrity and value of an antique clock, whereas a conversion kit is a more cost-effective way to ensure modern reliability.
7. My clock is ticking but stopping; what is the most likely cause?
Check that the clock is "in beat" (perfectly even tick-tock) and that the suspension spring isn't kinked, which drains power from the jauch clock weights.
Find the Right Parts for Your Clock Restoration at VintageClockParts.com
While we focus primarily on American clock movements and components, VintageClockParts.com maintains an inventory of over 4,000 original antique clock parts extensively photographed to show exact condition and specifications before purchase.
For projects requiring replacement movements, hands, pendulums, suspension springs, or other mechanical components, our detailed individual part photography eliminates the guesswork. Every piece in our inventory receives individual documentation showing its actual condition rather than generic stock photos, allowing you to buy with confidence.
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