In the case of large clocks, the cause of stopping is usually apparent, and by trying the side-shake of the pivots in their holes, it can be readily seen if any new ones are required. The depths are nearly always correct, and the end-shakes can be tried the last thing when put together. There are 2 ways of treating such clocks : one consists of cleaning them as well as it is possible with emery cloth, and turpentine upon a brush, without removing any of the wheels from the frame, called "wiping out"; the other, in taking them all to pieces and thoroughly cleaning, in the same manner as small clocks. Which method is necessary or desirable must be decided by judgment. It will be found usually sufficient to thoroughly clean them about every 5 or 6 years, and "wipe them out" once every year - about autumn being the best time, before the cold weather sets in to influence the oil.
If the clock drives one or more pairs of hands, it is very necessary to see that the leading-off rods and universal joints do not bind in any part of their movement. When the dial work stands in a very oblique position in regard to the driving wheel of the train, it is often much better to use bevelled wheels than the ordinary leading-off rods and universal joints, and small-sized straight-drawn iron gas-tubes will be found very serviceable for making the connections, by simply fitting turned pieces of steel into the ends, to carry the wheels.
After a new hemp line has been put to a turret clock, if continued wet weather follows, it will oftentimes be found to twist and gather round so much as to stop the clock. The way to remedy this is to take the weight off, straighten out the line, and then replace it, giving it a few turns in the opposite direction to its twist. If this fails, as it sometimes does, the following plan will be successful: - Mix together about 1/2 lb. soft soap and a packet of black lead until incorporated, and work it well into the rope along its entire length, laying it out in one long straight line, and quite free to turn during the operation. It is rather a dirty job, but very efficacious, and well repays the trouble when hemp ropes are used; it hardens the rope, making it last longer and work better.