Chime Blocks

Chime blocks come in many different designs.  The chime block sets have been categorized by the number of rods.

When choosing a chime block there are a number of aspects to consider:

  • Number of rods
  • How rods are attached to chime block such as screw-in or press-in. 
  • Type of rod such as blue steel, copper, bronze, gold finished, etc.
  • Chime block rods are configured in many ways such as 4 x 4, 4 x 8, etc.  Meaning how many rods are on each side of the block.
  • Chime blocks also come with the rods exiting the block straight, V-shaped, or slanted.
  • Shape of chime block base and mounting hole locations need to be understood when replacing blocks.
  • Chime blocks can be mounted in many ways such as the back of case (rear mount), front of case or mounting plate (front mount), and top of case (top mount).

Repairing a chime block can be difficult.  If a chime block has screw-in rods a replacement rod can be inserted; however, the chime block must be tuned by a professional.  If the chime block has press-in rods the block cannot be repaired.

Chime block rod lengths do not have to be exact to what you are replacing.  The clock case and mounting requirements will determine the needed size of the rods and blocks.