How to Adjust a Clock That Chimes at the Wrong Time
A clock that chimes at the wrong time—whether striking early, late, or counting the wrong hour—can quickly become annoying and confusing. Fortunately, chime timing problems are very common and, in many cases, easy to correct without major repairs. Understanding how chime and strike trains work together allows clock owners to safely restore proper synchronization. This guide explains why clocks fall out of chime alignment and walks through proven, low-risk steps to correct the problem.
Common Reasons Clocks Chime Incorrectly
Chime and strike issues usually occur when the clock’s hands and internal strike mechanism are no longer aligned. This can happen gradually or suddenly after the clock has been moved, stopped, or improperly set.
The most common causes include:
Hands installed incorrectly after cleaning or repair
Chime or strike train out of sequence
Minute hand slipping on its bushing
Hour hand positioned incorrectly on its friction fit
Auto-correction systems not completing a full cycle
Bent or rubbing hands causing delays
Dirty or worn movements creating drag
In many cases, the clock itself is still mechanically sound—the timing relationship has simply shifted.
Step-by-Step Fix for Chimes Out of Sync
Step 1: Allow the Clock to Complete a Full Hour
Many modern mechanical clocks include an auto-correction feature that re-aligns the strike after one full hour of uninterrupted running.
Let the clock run naturally
Do not move the hands while chiming
Observe whether the strike corrects itself
If the clock continues chiming incorrectly, proceed to manual adjustment.
Step 2: Advance the Minute Hand Correctly
Move the minute hand forward only
Stop at each quarter hour
Allow every chime or strike sequence to finish completely
Never force the hands backward unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.
Step 3: Manually Synchronize the Hour Strike
If the clock strikes the wrong hour count:
Let the clock complete the strike
Gently remove the hour hand (it is friction-fit)
Reposition it to match the number of strikes heard
Press it back on carefully, keeping it level
This does not affect the movement’s internal timing—only the visual display.
Step 4: Tighten the Minute Hand Bushing
A loose minute hand is one of the most common causes of early or late chiming.
Remove the minute hand
Slightly tighten the bushing or collet
Reinstall and ensure it sits flat and secure
A properly fitted minute hand triggers the chime levers at the correct moments.
Step 5: Check for Hand Interference
Bent or rubbing hands can delay chime activation.
Inspect to ensure:
Minute and hour hands do not touch
Hands clear the dial surface
Second hand (if present) is not interfering
Even slight contact can throw chime timing off by several minutes.
When the Chime Train Needs Professional Service
If basic adjustments do not correct the issue, the problem may lie deeper in the movement.
Professional service may be required if chimes:
Lock up mid-sequence
Run slowly or drag
Skip quarters
Fail to complete strike cycles
Sound weak or uneven
These symptoms often indicate dried oil, worn bushings, or internal misalignment—issues that require proper disassembly and cleaning.
Time and Seasons Clock Repair in Calhoun, GA can diagnose and restore chime trains accurately without risking further damage.
Preventing Future Chime Problems
To keep your clock chiming correctly:
Always move the minute hand forward
Let strikes finish before advancing time
Keep the clock level
Service mechanical clocks every 5–10 years
Avoid forcing stuck hands or levers
Routine care prevents most chime timing issues before they start.
