Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What types of services does Neill Carillon Services provide?
A. We sell, service and install cast bells and ringing equipment, electronic carillons, tower clocks. We also provide audio and video systems for smaller churches that cannot afford the big guys. We serve the New York City region including Pa, NJ, and Ct.

Q. Are all Cast Bells the same?
A. Good quality bells are made of cast bronze although there have been some made of cast iron many of which may have an acceptable tonal quality. They can be mounted so that they can be swinging bells or in a frame as a set to play melodies either rung by hand or mechanically.

Q: Are all cast bells the same?
A: Good quality bells are made of cast bronze although there have been some made of cast iron many of which may have an acceptable tonal quality. They can be mounted so that they can be swinging bells or in a frame as a set to play melodies either rung by hand or mechanically.

Q: How often should the bells be serviced?
A: They should be inspected and serviced at least once a year depending on how often they are rung. This will prevent any damage to the bell and the surrounding structure. We have seen lack of maintenance ending up costing the client large sums for repairs that could have been avoided.

Q: What should I do if my bell is not ringing properly?
A: Call for service. We will set up a time for an inspection and provide a solution to fix the problem which can be as simple as servicing.

Q: My bell has a hairline crack in it. What should I do?
A: Sometimes cracks an just be the result of the casting process and my just be a mold mark however if it is truly cracked then it will have to be recast or put on display like the Liberty Bell. A cracked bell usually has a buzzing sound when rung. The best thing to do is to call for service so we can inspect the bell.

Q: My tower clock does not run properly. What should I do?
A: Many times the clock movements can be worn out from lack of maintenance or age. The first thing to do is to have it inspected. Sometimes a good cleaning and lubrication will be enough.

Q: My clock dials have cracks. Can these be repaired?
A: Many clock dials were made of glass but can crack as a result of storms and age. These can be a liability issue and should be addressed. We have replaced these dials with vinyl acrylic which is long lasting and will give the clock a like new appearance.

Q: My clock has not run in years. Can you help?
A: We have restored the clock function of several old clocks while preserving the old movements by providing digital clock drives and controllers at a reasonable cost. The existing movements can be restored later when funds are available. The public then sees the  clock working once more. We can come out for a survey and provide a quote.

Q: Our carillon doesn’t sound like it use to. What can be the problem?
A: Since these are electronic devises sometimes just a good cleaning on the connections and an inspection will do the trick. We have seen damage to speakers from storms and even birds and squirrels who can chew on the speaker wires which will need replacing.

Q: Our carillon hasn’t worked in years. Is there any hope to get it going again?
A: Sometimes they have been shut off because of complaints for various reasons including neighbors. We have found that they often move away. Often just relocating or adjusting trhe speakers can solve the problem. Another reason is due to mechanical problems which often can be fixed. We offer an affordable new digital bell carillon which can be hooked up to existing speakers saving quite a bit of money.

Q: We want our carillon repaired but the service calls are very expensive. Can you help?
A: Since we are a smaller company with low over head we can provide much more affordable rates. Please give us a call.