displaying ship's bell

[lmoore]

I've just been given a brass ship's bell and want to install it on my 26 MacGregor. Any idea out there as to where they work the best?

Lynn

[sailingdog]

How big is the bell. That will often affect where you can mount it. I'm also trying to think of someplace on a MacGregor it would not look out of place. The problem is that a ship's bell is a fairly traditional item and might look a bit strange on a hybrid like a MacGregor.

[PBzeer]

Partly depends on whether you look at it as functional or decorative. If decorative, I'd mount it inside the cabin. Outside on a Mac, it's hard to imagine where it wouldn't end up in the way. Also, it isn't a required safety item on a boat of that size.

Currently at 35 06 11 N 77 08 02 W

[sailingdog]

Originally Posted by PBzeer

Partly depends on whether you look at it as functional or decorative. If decorative, I'd mount it inside the cabin. Outside on a Mac, it's hard to imagine where it wouldn't end up in the way. Also, it isn't a required safety item on a boat of that size.

Currently at 35 06 11 N 77 08 02 W

Also, the size of the bell often determines whether it is functional or merely decorative. A 3" ship's bell is definitely decorative, a 6-8" ship's bell could be either.

[Giulietta]

Just install it on the bulkhead.

[Boasun]

Originally Posted by sailingdog

Also, the size of the bell often determines whether it is functional or merely decorative. A 3" ship's bell is definitely decorative, a 6-8" ship's bell could be either.

Mount it inside, but have an outside mount for it. For when you are anchored in fog or aground in fog you will be using it for your fog signals.
You have automated fog signals?? The RULES require the manual means of sounding fog signals also. Maybe on the steering pedestal? A bulkhead? Or a fife rail? Where ever you decide.
Have a 4" and it is loud enough for a 7 to 12 meter vessel. The secret is in the metal that the bell is casted from.

Anchored in Fog: Rapid ringing of the bell for 5 seconds every minute.
Aground in Fog: three distinct strokes, rapid ringing for 5 seconds followed by three distinct strokes, every minute.

Yeah it does seem that it will keep you awake all night long. But if you are really tired you will sleep....eventually.

[lmoore]

Originally Posted by sailingdog

How big is the bell. That will often affect where you can mount it. I'm also trying to think of someplace on a MacGregor it would not look out of place. The problem is that a ship's bell is a fairly traditional item and might look a bit strange on a hybrid like a MacGregor.

It is a 6 inch brass bell. thought about attaching it to the mast under the boom ( no vang) so I can reach it with the pop-top up or down.
I am a lake sailor so it is not required for signaling.

Lynn

[SimonV]

Bolt it to your front door at home. A bell has no place on a smaill boat. bells belong on bicycles

[lmoore]

Thanks to all of you for your suggestions!
Lynn