When is it time?
There is no specific time frame in which the instruments should be refurbished. It all
depends on how often they are used and how well they are cared for. Some signals that it
is time to refurbish include the following:
Handbells
- You have spots on the handbell castings which do not come off when they are hand polished.
- You are noticing strong overtones or beats in the sound of the bells.
- The sound of the handbells is not consistent from one to the next.
- Mechanical sounds still prevail after simple adjustments, as outlined in our maintenance manual.
Choirchimes
- Mechanical sounds still prevail after simple adjustments, as outined in our maintenance manual/
- The pitch of the chimes is not consistent from one to the next.
Who should refurbish our instruments?
Having your handbells refurbished by Malmark's bellcraftsmen also provides another important
benefit. Those sets of handbells covered by Malmark's Lifetime Warranty are assured of
continuance of that coverage. Sets of Malmark Handbells purchased before the Lifetime
Warranty was applicable (October 1984) can now obtain that warranty on all new parts used by
having their bells refurbished by Malmark.
What does Malmark do when they refurbish handbells?
- Completely disassemble and thoroughly inspect each handbell
- Inform customer of inspection results and recommendations
- Machine polish each handbell casting inside and out
- Clean, adjust and lubricate each clapper assembly
- Replace restraining springs and clapper heads where necessary
-
Brass handleblocks will be replaced with those made of glass-filled nylon unless you
specify otherwise.
-
Reassemble and revoice each handbell. Castings that do not meet our strict standards
will be replaced at no charge as long as there is no sign of abuse.
- Hand polish each casting.
What does Malmark do when they refurbish Choirchimes®
- Thoroughly inspect each chime.
- Clean and adjust each clapper assembly.
- Replace any worn clapper heads, and replace chime labels. Parts will be an additional charge.
- Inspect resonance of each tube and make appropriate adjustments of plugs as required.
- Inspect cases and clean as appropriate.
