Daniel Dakota clock – my clock runs too fast

Posted on by rjoiner2021
Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clocks, issues you might have had and challenges you face and my responses to your questions with advice on your  particular clock concern(s). For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circles for the best possible answer.

D writes

“Hi there. I came across your posts while searching for a repair manual for my clock.

I have a Daniel Dakota 15 day clock which runs about 15 minutes fast each day. I long ago lost the instructions/manual but thought you may be able to give me a tip or two to slow down the movement.

Let me know!”

D’s clock is similar to this Daniel Dakota wall clock

My reply.

“Thanks D,

First, I assume that it is a mechanical clock with winding arbours. Here is an excerpt from one of my blog articles posted earlier this year.

https://ronaldjoiner.wordpress.com/2017/07/31/regulating-your-mechanical-clock/

Regulating a clock often means making incremental changes to the length of the pendulum by means of a rate adjustment screw located at the end of the pendulum. Turning the rating screw clockwise shortens the pendulum (faster) and counter clockwise lengthens it (slower). Usually one full turn of the screw means adding or subtracting a minute per week.

In your case I would make several counter clockwise turns of the rating screw at the bottom of the pendulum to begin with and see how it does over the course of a day or two. Make sure that the pendulum bob actually drops when turning the screw counter clockwise.

If you can get your clock within 2-3 minutes a week you are doing well.”

A relatively simple fix.