There are a number of things that will cause timekeeping problems. Some
are true generally speaking and some are specific to certain clocks. The following is
a list of the generally speaking problems:
a “set” mainspring
improperly lubed mainspring
damaged mainspring— scratched ,rusted or pitted spring : or a spring with lumps
caused from the shape of the spring upon itself being wound for years and years.
worn weight pulley
gummy oil
worn or loose bushings
loose suspension post
incorrect mainspring
sympathetic vibration
damaged threads on the pendulum adjusting nut
regulator end of key damaged
bent suspension spring
loose verge
worn gear teeth
worn roller pinions and or worn roller pinion bushings
incorrect weight on time gear train
loose hand clutch
scored pivots or pivot
too much play in impulse loop
incorrect gear ratio
incorrect center of gravity on the pendulum bob
incorrect pendulum weight
incorrect suspension spring thickness
mainspring run down
unstable running position
out of beat
mainspring catching on gear teeth or click rivet or click spring hooks
damaged escape wheel teeth
moon dial gear binding
incorrect verge escape wheel depth (shallower depth will generally make the clock
run faster because the swing is reduced making less time between ticks.