Cast Bell Service Demystified
We started servicing church bells in 1978 for Schulmerich Carillons in Sellersville, PA. From that point on, it was exciting to meet the many memorable clergy and church administrative personnel as we conducted sales and installations of bell-ringing products in Upstate NY. Fast forward to today, the equipment has become more sophisticated and compact, or, as we would say, it has a smaller footprint. The result is the exact, heartfelt moment of the age-old sound of a cast-bronze bell ringing. On this page, we will show you some of the mechanical items needed to ring a bell. For our technicians, bell work is a labor of love that gives each of us a sense of accomplishment as we complete installations or service calls. Our customers' satisfaction is our number one priority.
Pictured here is a bell tower containing three cast bells commonly referred to as a three-bell peal. After many years in the harsh Central New York weather, this installation needs some much-needed maintenance.
The church has opted to install new interior strikers and new bell-mounting hardware.
The pictures below show bell equipment that needs replacement.
To the left is a picture of an old-style external bell hammer, which is used to strike the bell for a tolling sound. This is how the sound of a funeral toll or the hour strike is produced on some bell installations.
This picture shows the effects of weather and time, as corrosion has rendered the hanging support of this bell in the 3-bell tower above unsafe.
Shown to the left is an old-style internal bell striker. This type of striker would be used in the above tower for hour strikes, tolls, peals, and Angelus prayers in the 3-bell tower above.
This picture is a newly installed external bell hammer/striker
This is a new external bell hammer mounted from above, for a large bell.
The picture above shows a newly renovated cast bell with an external hammer, highlighting the recent improvements that demonstrate our commitment to preserving and enhancing the bell's condition.
Notice that we have covered the new timbers under the bell with aluminum. This will retard future wood rot.
This bell also has a motor and a chain to drive the bell wheel, both of which require periodic inspection and maintenance to ensure reliable automatic operation.
This picture shows a newly restored rope-pulled bell—a total manual operation controlled by a person four floors below.
The pictures below are of new bell ringing equipment installed.
Annual and per-call service
We offer both Planned Annual Service (PMA) and per-call service, ensuring reliable support when you detect issues with your bell-ringing equipment. Our service team will respond promptly to all inquiries and assist with upgrades or replacements, helping you feel confident in our commitment to your equipment's performance. Before signing any contracts for new equipment or extensive services, call us for a second quote. You may be pleasantly surprised.
Our cast bell and clock service manager, Steve, will respond quickly to your inquiries with the appropriate repair solution for the cast bells at your location. We understand the importance of prompt support, so you can trust us to prioritize your needs and keep your equipment running smoothly.
Contact us now to schedule your 2026 annual bell service. Planning ensures your equipment remains in top condition, giving you peace of mind for the years to come.
Call 315.569.0545
Carillon Bells Inc.
Hours 9 AM-4:30 PM M-F
315-569-0545
© 2025-26. All rights reserved.
Our services include.
New Cast bell-ringing equipment
Tower Clock repair and renovation
Street Clock service & repair
Street Clock renovation & painting
Annual Planned Service on all makes of clock & bell equipment
4465 E. Genesee St. Ste 257 Dewitt, NY 13214
Email Info@carillonbells.com