Gustav Becker 400-day clock losing time

[Millaram]

Good morning all. I am a clock novice trying to get a Gustav Becker 400-day clock running. It belonged to my father and as far as I know, he never had it running. I have read a bit online about setting up these clocks - daunting - so I may give the impression that I know what I'm talking about but don't be fooled. It's called talking a good game!

I am told that the clock is fitted with the correct suspension spring (0.004"). I don't know if it is the correct length. The pendulum sits approx 1/4" above the base. I think the fork is in a good position as the clock ticks steadily and there is no flutter. I have moved the adjustment weights on the pendulum fully in to get it running as fast as possible. It runs for days but runs slowly. It loses approx 1 minute per hour.

Does the length of the suspension spring affect the timekeeping and in what way?

How much of a difference in timekeeping can I expect between having the pendulum weights fully in and fully out?

Any suggestions about how I might get it running faster will be welcome.

Thanks

Alistair

[oldhippy]

The suspension spring has to be at the correct length and it has to be the correct strength. We need to see the clock a good clear photo of the back plate so we can check and tell you the correct length and strength.  

[Millaram]

Thanks for getting back to me. I have attached a photo of the back plate.

[Dell]

Okay I have a few GB’s and every one has to have a thinned 0.0045” torsion spring as they are all somewhere between 0.004” & 0.0045” , the book states 0.004” but I have never found one to take that , As your clock is running slow that points to the same wrong torsion spring, I have done a video how I thin a torsion spring along with lots of other torsion clock videos, here is the thinning video.

Dell

 

[Millaram]

Thanks Dell. I have ordered a 0.0045" spring with the intention of thinning it as you describe in your video.

[oldhippy]

I would try it first before you start to thin it. 

[Dell]

4 minutes ago, oldhippy said:

I would try it first before you start to thin it. 

Sensible suggestion OH but I have never had one that needed the 45 thou.

Dell