Moving A Grandfather Clock

We move Grandfather Clocks within an hour radius of Topeka, KS!
We also help pack and secure Grandfather Clocks for longer moves.

Inquire through our contact form, or call or text for more information.

Outside of Northeast Kansas?  We have some tips for you below:

Moving a grandfather clock safely requires care to avoid damaging its delicate internal mechanisms and ornate structure. Here are some steps you should follow:

1. Supplies You Will Need:

  • Moving blankets or pads
  • Bubble wrap
  • Sturdy container for weights
  • Packing tape
  • Ziplock bags or small containers (for small parts)
  • Screwdrivers (usually Phillips and flat-head)
  • Gloves (optional, for better grip and to protect wood finish)
  • Labels or masking tape and marker

2. Stop the Clock

  • Run the clock until the weights are at least several inches down from the top-most position (they should be down for safe removal).
  • Gently stop the pendulum from swinging.

3. Remove the Pendulum

  • Open the clock case and locate the pendulum.
  • Gently lift it up and off the pendulum leader.  (This may be up inside a bit, not visible at first).
  • Wrap the pendulum in bubble wrap or a towel and set it aside.

4. Remove the Weights

  • Most clocks have 2 or 3 weights hanging by chains or cables.
  • Carefully lift each weight up and unhook it.
  • Label each weight (Left, Center, Right) with masking tape, as their weight may vary.
  • Wrap them in padding and set them aside.

5. Secure the Chains or Cables

  • Pull the chains or cables up slightly and secure them with twist ties, zip ties, or tape to keep them from tangling or slipping off their sprockets.
  • If the clock uses chains, tie them together loosely and tape the ends to the inside wall of the case.

6. Remove Decorative Elements (if needed)

  • Detach any removable finials, glass side panels, or crown pieces.
  • Wrap each in bubble wrap and label them.

7. Secure the Chime Rods

  • A small piece of cardboard with holes punched out the size of the chime rods, slipped up from the bottom, will keep the rods from clanging around during the move.
  • Wrap the entire case in moving blankets to protect the wood and glass.

8. Secure the Clock Case

  • Close and lock or tape shut any doors.
  • Wrap the entire case in moving blankets to protect the wood and glass.

9. Transporting Your Clock

  • Grandfather clocks are best transported in an upright position in a moving truck with other furniture, rather than laying it on its back.
  • However, when moving just the clock in a vehicle or pickup, we suggest to do so on its back, not its side or upright.

10. Reassemble with Care

  • Once at the new location, reverse the steps:
  • Place the clock upright.
  • Reattach decorative elements.
  • Remove the cardboard on the chime rods
  • Rehang the weights (in the correct positions).
  • Reinstall the pendulum.
  • Set the time and start the pendulum swinging.

 

Inquire through our contact form, or call or text for more information.

 

 

Copy draft by chatgpt.com, edited for accuracy by Tim Vahsholtz.