Reply #1: Golf ball sized is normal for most pear varieties now.

[Denninmi]

They will "size up" considerably in the last 4 to 6 weeks before ripening, which could be anytime from late August through mid October depending upon the variety.

Bartlett is definitely the most likely candidate, since it ripens then in our climate zone, and its by far the most widely planted variety.

Pears are never too old to respond well to proper pruning. Removing old weak and diseased wood will encourage new growth, which will be a lot more vigorous. Feel free to clean it up -- best time would be late March next year, although you can also do some moderate pruning in September/October this year.