A Comprehensive Guide
Moving a grandfather clock can be a daunting task, but with the right steps and careful planning, you can make the move go smoothly without damaging your beloved timepiece. Here we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you move your grandfather clock safely and successfully.
Pre-Move Preparation
Before beginning the moving process, it is important that you take some simple steps in preparation for the move. The first step should be to take photos of your clock from all angles as an insurance policy in case something does go wrong during the move. Next, carefully remove any weights or pendulums that are attached to the clock and wrap them separately in bubble wrap or other cushioning material. If you have access to old blankets or padding, use those materials to cushion the edges of your grandfather clock before moving it.
Disassembling Your Clock
In order for your grandfather clock to fit through doorways and tight spaces during the move, it is recommended that you partially dismantle it. To do this safely and effectively, begin by unscrewing any faces or decorative moldings at the top of the case so that these pieces can be removed separately. Then remove bolts from both sides of the cabinet (bottom up) being sure not to drop them on your floor as they could scratch wood during reassembly. Now carefully pull out any drawers or shelves before unlocking and removing top half of cabinet from bottom half with both hands on each part in order to steady it while lifting apart. Lastly, if applicable, disconnect chains between parts of machinery either by popping out pins or unscrewing nuts/bolts securing them together. Now your clock is entirely disassembled and ready for transport!
It is important that you take some simple steps in preparation for the move. The first step should be to take photos of your clock from all angles as an insurance policy in case something does go wrong during the move. Next, carefully remove any weights or pendulums that are attached to the clock and wrap them separately in bubble wrap or other cushioning material. If you have access to old blankets or padding, use those materials to cushion the edges of your grandfather clock before moving it.
Transporting Your Clock
Now that your clock has been disassembled into separate components it is important to properly secure them while transporting them so they don’t end up damaged when arriving at their destination. If possible use furniture pads (or similarly protective padding material) around sides and bottoms of boxes containing individual parts so they are cushioned against bumps on journey down road; Additionally using straps will help keep components firmly secured within moving truck/car when en route which will minimize risk of damage due to brief moments of turbulence during transportation process. Also remember never carry dismantled parts too far away from each other since their alignment must remain precise when reassembling them after transport!
Reassembling Your Clock
Once all parts have arrived at their new home safe and sound then you can begin reassembling your clock! Begin by restoring drawer/shelf assemblies if applicable before lining up holes on both upper/lower cabinet halves so they may be bolted back together; Then secure top/bottom pieces with bolts so that no play exists between components followed by screwing any decorative moldings you removed beforehand into place atop completed body form; Finally attach weights/pendulums according to instructions provided in manufacturers’ manual (or copy thereof) in order complete reconstruction process while allowing gear movement necessary for proper functioning once again! By following this comprehensive guide along with taking pictures beforehand and proper packing/transporting techniques while relocating we trust you will have seen successful results throughout entire move without causing harm either to yourself or beloved timepiece upon completion!