Introduction
Herschede grandfather clocks are among the finest American tubular-bell clocks ever produced. While most Herschede models use three weights, some rare versions—such as the 2-weight 5-tube design—use a combined chime/strike train. These clocks are mechanically unique, and understanding their movement layout is essential for proper setup, diagnosis, and restoration. This guide explains how the 2-weight Herschede system works and how to troubleshoot common issues.
Understanding the 2‑Weight Herschede Movement
Combined chime and strike train
Unlike the typical 3-weight Herschede, this model uses one weight for the time train and one for both chime and strike. The combined train requires precise adjustment to avoid stalling.
Five tubular bells
The clock uses five tubes for the Westminster melody. Hammer alignment and lift height are critical for proper tone.
Heavy-duty gearing
Because the chime and strike share a train, the gearing is robust but sensitive to wear and friction.
Unique hammer rack system
The hammer rack must lift evenly across all five tubes. Any misalignment causes weak or uneven chimes.
Movement construction
Herschede movements are high-quality but require precise lubrication and bushing work due to their long power trains.
Common Issues With 2‑Weight Herschede Clocks
Chime train stalls or hesitates
Often caused by worn bushings, dirty pivots, or excessive hammer lift.
Weak or uneven chimes
Hammer alignment, tube clearance, or lift height may be incorrect.
Strike not activating
Misaligned levers or worn pivots can prevent the strike from releasing.
Time train running weakly
Indicates pivot wear or power loss in the escapement.
Tube resonance issues
Improper tube spacing or hammer rebound affects tone quality.
Diagnosing the Problem
Check hammer lift height
Hammers should lift only enough to produce a clear tone. Over-lifting is a major cause of power loss.
Inspect pivot wear
Oval pivot holes or rough pivots reduce power and cause hesitation in both chime and strike.
Test the chime train by hand
With the movement let down, gently advance the chime train to feel for binding or friction.
Check tube clearance
Ensure tubes hang freely and do not touch each other or the case.
Evaluate lever alignment
Chime and strike levers must move freely without rubbing or binding.
Correcting the Problem
Rebush worn pivot holes
Properly centered bushings restore depthing and improve power transmission.
Clean and polish pivots
Smooth pivots reduce friction and improve efficiency.
Adjust hammer lift
Reduce lift to the minimum needed for a clean strike on each tube.
Align the hammer rack
Ensure all hammers strike the tubes squarely and with equal force.
Verify tube spacing
Proper spacing prevents buzzing, dull tone, or tube interference.
Troubleshooting Flowcharts
If the chime train stalls
Check hammer lift → Check pivots → Check bushings → Check tube clearance → Check mainspring/weight power
If the chimes sound weak
Check hammer alignment → Check lift height → Check tube spacing → Check hammer rebound
If the strike does not activate
Check levers → Check warning → Check pivots → Check bushings
If the time train runs weakly
Check escapement → Check pivot wear → Check depthing → Check lubrication
If the tubes buzz or ring poorly
Check spacing → Check hammer rebound → Check tube mounting
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-lifting the hammers
Too much lift dramatically increases load on the combined chime/strike train.
Ignoring pivot wear
Worn pivots are a major cause of power loss in Herschede movements.
Incorrect tube spacing
Tubes must hang freely without touching.
Oiling the tubes or hammer tips
Oil deadens the sound and attracts dirt.
Forcing the chime train
Forcing can bend pins or damage the hammer rack.
Checklist for Final Verification
• Hammer lift correctly adjusted
• Pivots polished and clean
• Bushings properly centered
• Tubes spaced correctly
• Chime and strike run smoothly
• Movement runs reliably through full cycle
FAQs
Why does my Herschede chime weakly?
Often due to excessive hammer lift or poor tube spacing.
Why won’t the chime train start?
Binding, worn bushings, or misaligned levers are common causes.
Can worn bushings stop a Herschede movement?
Yes. Oval pivot holes are a major cause of power loss.
Why do the tubes buzz?
Usually due to improper spacing or hammer rebound.
Are Herschede movements repairable?
Yes. Even heavily worn movements can be restored with proper service.
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