Hi Gayle,
When the clock has settled down, after about 30-45 seconds, listen to the tick. You should hear an even tick-tock. This is called the beat, and it should be even. If it is a quick tick-tock, then a longer pause and another quick tick-tock then the clock is either not on a level surface, the mechanism has rotated in the mounting(French clocks a common problem) or the escapement is out of adjustment. This is a bigger problem and really needs a clock repairer to sort out, unless you are very good mechanically. If you would like to repair clocks yourself, check your local adult education service. If they run clock repair classes you may be able to contact someone at the class who would be able to advise or help you, or why not join them. If the clock still won't go it may be that it is jammed and this is something for an experienced person to sort out.
Good luck,
Richard de Verteuil, November 2007
