Grandfather clocks are unique and delicate pieces that require special care when moving due to their unique design.
Specialty or antique furniture movers are recommended for moving these clocks, especially for family heirlooms. Although carrying a grandfather clock is challenging, DIY options are available if a professional moving company isn’t available.
This content provides a step-by-step guide for moving a grandfather clock.
Round up your tools.
First, ensure you have all the equipment and tools needed for the move. Moving blankets, padding, and bubble wrap are also necessary to safeguard the Grandfather Clock’s internal and external components. Moving boxes for storing and transporting clock pieces, a lengthy laminate piece, packing paper, and elastic bands are other essential moving equipment.
Get Familiar with the Composition of a Grandfather Clock.
You need to know what to do if you plan to take to pieces a grandfather clock.
Even while you won’t be taken to pieces every single component of a grandfather clock, there are a few things you should be aware of because they make up the clock. Among them are:
Panels on the front and sides;
Depending on the kind of clock, hanging weights are typically two or three in number;
Chains or cables: they serve as pulleys and regulate the moving parts of the clock;
Pendulum: the part of the clock that oscillates back and forth. Supported by a pendulum guide;
Chime rods are hammering rods of various sizes that make chiming and striking noises.
Tie cables or chains to avoid tangling.
Next, wind (or crank) the weights nearly to the top by reaching inside through the side panel. Using packaging tape or a twist tie, fasten the ends of the cables or chains together while holding them together with your hands. This will keep the chains from getting tangled when the clock is transported, and the weights are removed.
Disassemble Your Grandfather’s Clock.
Before moving a grandfather clock, it is crucial to disassemble it to prevent damage.
First, remove the glass panels or hood, and wear gloves to minimize smudging. If your clock has a screwed hood, drag it to prevent toppling.
Wrap the panels in bubble wrap and label them “Fragile.” Tie the cables or chains to prevent tangling, stopping the pendulum first. If your clock is cable-driven, wind the weights halfway and secure them in place.
Remove and mark all weights individually with packing paper or bubble wrap, ensuring they are labeled correctly. Remove the pendulum and secure the chime rods with bubble wrap and tape.
If your clock comes with glass shelves, remove them and pack them separately. Remove any removable decorative parts, as ornamental features on the clock could be damaged during transportation.
This process ensures the clock’s stability and prevents potential damage during transportation.
Load on Vehicle
Use an extra pair of hands and a dolly to move it:
- Load the clock in a waiting vehicle.
- Keep the clock upright and wheel it slowly to the car.
Tiebacks to secure the clock and dolly to the side of the truck, preventing unnecessary movements during transit.
UnLoad and Rebuild/Reassemble
The grandfather clock moving process involves unloading and reassembling the clock in reverse order. Wear gloves and wipe down any stains.
After setting up, wind the timepiece and use the pendulum to restart it, ensuring it arrives intact.
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