St John's Bells

Adrian Ridgeway
Bermuda Pipe Organ Company Ltd
adrianr@northrock.bm

Andrew Sixsmith
George Sixsmith and Son Ltd
Tel: 01457 833 009

Jed Flatters
John Taylor Bellfounders Limited
Sal: Sirs Ref: ? Cat: S/
Freehold Street Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 1AR, England
Tel :011 44 1509 212241 Fax: 01509 263305
Jed Flatters: jed flatters@taylorbells.co.uk

Monday, 11th December, 2006 at 10:30am - JCRC by telephone with Jed Flatters TOP

Mr Stephen R. Cake original install in 1999/2000. He has now left the company.
JCRC spoke with Jed Flatters who had some familiarity with project. Usually don't need much maintenance. Check electrical circuit; query lightning strike. May just need a replacement part.

Bells, Electrician = George Simmons (Tel: 735 2531) no longer at this cel.

Mr William Duncan Sal:Bill
Suite 317 48 Par-La-Ville Road Hamilton HM08 Bermuda
Tel:+1 441 292 0589 Fax:+1 441 292 4790

Another relay box in the tower may be getting wet.

Suggest that Andrew Sixsmith, the original organ builder, should come and visit. Jed will put him in touch by email.
JCRC

Willing to come to Bermuda, but needs one more test.

Sealed Relay Box (sealed with screws) in tower 24" * 18" * 6" receives 12v signals from Bell Controller and then fires clapper.
1. Check Relay Box has mains power
2. Run small wire from 'common' point to input side relay switch and see if bell sounds.
Apparently, there should be no sparks because 12v

Query: Mr Adrian Ridgeway who does bell maintenance in Bermuda
Bda Tel Book: Tel:297 2192 & Cel: 799 1540

Tuesday, 27 March, 2007 - JCRC by telephone with Adrian Ridgeway. TOP

AR knows what tests to perform and can liaise with Andrew Sixsmith directly. AR already maintains the Organ (which is a Sixsmith product). He will test and report to JCRC. AR cam also import spares duty free and get work permit for Sixsmith, if necessary.

JCRC confirmed also by tel with Bill Duncan that AR should proceed. Bill says AR already has a key to church because of Organ maintenance.

Tuesday, 27 March, 2007 at 7:30pm - JCRC by telephone with Adrian Ridgeway. TOP

Done the inspection.
Console is not putting out any signal
Boards can be removed and sent back or new boards ordered.
Relay box is badly rusted, many fuses bust, certain component fried (possibly by lightening or other static), and relays bars not all working

He will liaise with Sixsmith on best options water proof Relay box, maybe relocate. Maybe also complete be mini console.
Then revert.

Thursday, 29 March, 2007 - Email from Adrian to Sixsmith TOP
Subject: St. John's Carillon!!!

Hi Andrew!!

Just a v. quick one, in haste will just try to just get you the nuts and bolts of the Carillon issue. I believe that John Collis has spoken to you about the problem so I'll just outline what's been going on..

1) Tower relay cabinet in a bad state of repair, rust and degeneration. (I know you weren't happy about the location) driving rain has got to it! (also 2 hurricanes 2003 and 2006)

2) Two of the 5 note relay boards had PSU fuses blown replaced the fuses in both, one came back, the other remains dead various notes off all boards.

3) Three of the boards had assorted output fuses gone replaced OK.

4) 1 bell striker not operational from the relay (fuse OK)

5) Opto boards not firing all relays suspect lightning damage from last summer perhaps.

6) Bell controller console non operational display has horizontal lines across it making it almost illegible. Monitor sound off on the speakers etc. (power/wiring OK) Bells that the optos/relays are still controlling can be fired from the console cable but are non op from the controller. LEDs on the Musicom rack are red (steady) on and I think green audio and that's it. PSU voltages seem OK, 12 and 24 ?

After talking to John last night he wants to restore everything to proper order and would like to replace rather than repair the tower relay complete including the box.

The thinking is to relocate the relays to a more protected location either renewing the bell wiring or fitting a W/T junction cabinet where the relays were. He wants to know if the relay box can be furnished in a weather proof aluminum or plastic material???? Also, is a solid state relay available??

Re the console, I can send whatever is necessary to either you or to Musicom am thinking that it might be wise to ship the sys rack complete? I thinking that replacing the display shouldn't be a big issue either? All else is fine, keys, cables etc.

I'm sure the system has succumbed to the effects of either a power issue, lighting surge or some other localized event also the console was not on a surge arrestor so I'm going to suggest that the Church get both the organ console and the bell controller onto a professional power conditioning system, several are available here now (through BESCO) so that would make sense I think????

To sum up, briefly it looks like we'll need quotes for a new relay complete, preferably in an aluminum case (not steel!!!!) and a quote for the repairs to the controller. I guess the controller might be covered or partially by the warranty but as it's possible that the damage was caused by lightning or a power issue this doesn't seem fair on you/Musicom. John's is going to underwrite the costs as necessary as a service to the Church.

In any event, please let me know how you'd like me to proceed with this, it's all straightforward enough and I can start on it almost immediately. John's keen to get things moving ASAP so I want to push the work ahead at full throttle for him!!!!!

More later but hope this note finds you all happy, healthy and enjoying life!!!! Hope to see you next time I'm in the UK, possibly this summer!!!! In desperate need for a real BEER!!!!

Cheers mate,

ATB..

Adrian..

Andrew Sixsmith called JCRC to say that he had been contacted by Adrian Ridgeway. JCRC confirmed that he was acting for us.

Friday, 30 March, 2007 - Email from Sixsmith to Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: St. John's Carillon!!!

Hi Adrian,

Today I have been in touch with the various supply houses for costings for the parts etc...

and should have all the information together early next week, also I phoned John Collis to let him know the same.

He was very pleased that I gave him your name and the way you went about finding out where the problems were in a speedy and efficient manner etc..

I would agree with you that the damage to the opto card and screen will more than likely be a lightning strike in the near vicinity of the church tower. I asked the makers of the bell driver control about the use of relays in the box, the optos driver electrically isolate the two systems and the electro mecanical relays in the tower (as opposed to a solid state driver) are fitted for the reason that relays are less likely to be damaged by a lightning strike.

Taylors have ask us to find out which note will not play at the clapper end, as the solenoids that drive them are of various sizes.

hope to speak to you soon

with very best regards

Andrew

16th April, 2007 - JCRC Voicemessage for Adrian Ridgeway TOP
(On both Tel:297 2192 & Cel: 799 1540)
Want to catch up on status?

16th April, 2007 - Adrian Ridgeway Voice-message TOP
He is waiting for Sixsmith to revert with list of parts and prices.

Friday, 27 April, 2007 - Email from Adrian to Sixsmith TOP
Subject: RE: St. John's Carillon!!!

Hi Andrew,

I'm so sorry for the delay in replying, had a few problems (what's new) the past few weeks but this are gradually getting sorted out mum is not doing too well, but then she's 87 now poor old thing.. My Citroen has just bankrupted me in repairs as well... groan.. about 7K!!!!!!!!

Anyway, cheers and lots of thanks for the below I was at school with John actually, so I'm very determined to do the best job I possibly can for him (and you!), super chap that he is and all that. He's away I believe for a week or so right now.

Am with you on all the below, looking forward to your recommendations etc. for the parts, costs and stuff, hope it's not taking too much of your time, if there's anything I can possibly do to help please just let me know!!! Also I'll get you the note that's not playing at the clapper end, can't remember but it's one of the bottom chaps. !

Right then, just a quick note this time, I'm dead tired and trying for once to get to bed before midnight..

For now then, hope all's well with you and family!

Cheers mate..!

Adrian.JJJ !

PS might be over in the summer, so will be heading up to see you if I can!! Am in desperate need of a decent pint (or six!)

Tuesday, 15 May, 2007 - JCRC by telephone with Andrew Sixsmith TOP
Tel: 01457 833 009
Got all prices back, but only one item missing
Still need to know which solenoid for a clapper is bust.

Tuesday, 15 May, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Sixsmith & Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: St. John's Carillon!!!

Andrew
It was a pleasure speaking to you today, Tuesday, 15th May, 2007 and thanks for your message.

I confirm that the cost of ,6,840 Sterling is fine.

Please proceed to place the orders and arrange for the equipment to be shipped as soon as practicable. Perhaps you can give me your bank account wire transfer details and I will arrange for funds to be transferred to your account. I agree that the materials should be shipped and addressed to Adrian via air freight because he is in a position to arrange for collection and to claim the 'religious' duty exemption.

Kind regards, John

Tuesday, 15 May, 2007 - Email from Sixsmith to Adrian & JCRC TOP
Subject: Re: St. John's Carillon!!!

Dear Adrian,
I have been talking with John today and he would like to get the job on the go I mentioned that we need to know what note is off at the clapper end and that you would let us know so we can get the correct clapper solenoid.

John said that if we let him know what the costs are he would arrange for payment for the materials and we should address and ship them out to you. He said that he would then arrange with you to fit the same and pay you direct, as this will be the best way for John and we presume that this would work best for you to.

The majority of the items are not big or heavy so air fright would not be too expensive and without doubt it would be the quickest way to get them over to you, the only heavy item will be relatively small the clapper solenoid.

The price would be ,6,840 Sterling

plus packaging and shipping, this to be added at cost price.

If this is agreeable John can let us know, then we can order the parts and give you the lead times etc...

For the tower control system we have priced for the more expensive plastic type box that will be weather proof.
The whole of the bell control console system that fits inside the rack, the complete touch control screen at the front of the console and the output driver card that sits at the rear of the console, in short all system component that lightning may have damaged.

We are sure that you will agree total replacement is the only reliable way to go when lightning is the most likely cause of the damage.

We hope that your mum is doing better 87 is quite a good age please send her our best regards, hope to speak with you soon.

Andrew

Will look forward to seeing you again in the summer if you are over.

Wednesday, 16 May, 2007 - Email from Sixsmith to JCRC TOP
Subject: George Sixsmith Info as requested

Dear John,

I will place the orders for the parts from the various supply houses tomorrow and will get back to you as soon as we can compile the lead times etc...

Please find below the details as requested:

National Westminster Bank PLC
Ashton Under Lyne Branch
Warrington Street,
Ashton Under Lyne,
Lancashire,
OL6. 6JL.

Branch Sort Code: 01 00 39
Account Name : George Sixsmith & Son Limited.
Account Number: 05003350

The above information should be all that is required, please do not hesitate to contact us if you require any further information.
with kind regards,
Andrew

Thursday, 17 May, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: St. John's - Carillon!!!

Dear John,

Thanks for the forward, splendid. Andrew mailed us with the system overhaul details and so forth so all being well I believe that we have everything covered.

The only matter to resolve concerns the new location for the relay panel (and it's power supply) and the wiring from the clapper solenoids, specifically as to whether or not we are going to run entirely new cables from each bell or if we are going to establish a junction panel in place of the old relay box and run the additional cable lengths from the same. The former would be superior although more costly in terms of materials and labour.

In any event, I will be visiting the tower this weekend and will make a more thorough inspection of the various possibilities for the new installation and will report back to you. This will also allow us an opportunity to firm up our labour/time requirements for the project.

I had previously replied to Andrew regarding payment for his materials offering to undertake this for you. However I note that you are going to deal directly with Andrew regarding the matter of his payment which is splendid of course!

One point, I have suggested to Andrew is that we ship via UPS, not regular air freight. We never ship materials (pipes, electronics etc) in or out by any other means these days - delays, damage, customs difficulties and the total lack of accountability so often encountered with air freight make this method increasing difficult. UPS have a proper understanding of what we do, take care of our shipments and deliver the same day - although it's more expensive, the reduced handling and superior control offered by the courier is far preferred, at least this is my recommendation to you. Please let me know how you feel in this regard?!

Again, thank you very much for the opportunity of working with you on the refurbishment program for the Carillon at St. John's, a matter that I consider to be a great privilege and one that I am looking forward to expediting efficiently and to the highest standards possible.

For now, with my very best regards,

Adrian

Thursday, 17 May, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Sixsmith & Adrian TOP
Subject: FW: Fw: George Sixsmith Info as requested

Dear Andrew
Thanks for the information below.
I have subsequently spoken to Adrian and am now away for a few weeks. Contrary to my earlier comment to you, it is probably easier for Adrian to arrange to settle your invoice and agree shipping (probably now by UPS). Adrian will, therefore, be in touch with you soon.
Kind regards, John

Monday, 28 May, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: Carillon - update/report 1

Hope all's going well for you - will be brief as I'm expecting that you might be receiving on a blackberry or similar?!

Got back to the tower today and have finalized the plan for the restoration schedule etc. I am concerned however about the following ‑

1) It appears that the door accessing the tower roof was ripped off during the hurricane of 2003 (?) - the door has never been replaced leaving the tower completely open to the rain on the north east side. This has rotted out the steps etc. leading up to the platform from which one gains access to the iron ladder leading up to the bell chamber on the 4th level. I feel that the steps need replacing and that the structure be properly secured.

2) I noticed a large crack in the south wall of the bell chamber - it might just be the cement facing, but to be sure of this I have reported the matter to Rev. Dill who is arranging for a structural engineer to take a look at this later this week.

3) The bell frame is rusting, as is to be expected in our climate, and could do with de‑rusting, red leading and so forth after which it should be thoroughly sprayed with Corrosion‑X ‑ this treatment would go a long way to arresting further degeneration. It's not necessary to do this now but I think you would be well advised to give this some thought for the near future, perhaps next year. If the carillon is to stand the test of time it's going to be important to get some sort of preventative maintenance program in place. It would seem that nothing has been done since the previous restoration so I think this would be a really good plan?

4) I have emailed Andrew with the details of the 2 failed clapper solenoids (both had short circuits in the coils) and have asked him to move ASAP on securing a UPS quote for the shipment. I'm as anxious as you to get on with this and want/must have the work completed by June 30, no later.

5) I am planning to locate the new relay panel on the north wall of the crawl space as one accesses the church ceiling void ‑ this is above and to the right of the stairs as you enter the lower tower level from the gallery. Here it will be safe from the elements and will be easily accessible for maintenance etc. I will run new cables from each bell down to the new location, in conduit if possible. The control cable will easily reroute and power will be supplied through a new conduit from the breaker panel to the cabinet. The wall in question is very rough and will need proper facing with 4" block, this for the resilient mounting of the cabinet etc. ‑ I would also suggest that the whole be enclosed in a protective wood enclosure (very simple) allowing a damp chaser (heater) to be installed, keeping everything dry and thus in good order.

6) I am still unclear of the full costs for this work but if you are in agreement with the above I will attempt to put an estimate together, this including the masonry work, the provision of an enclosure for the relay cabinet, the electrical (new power conduit/cable ‑ breakers to the relay cabinet) and so forth. I am estimating that our labour for the installation will run between $ 4,000.00 and $ 5,000.00, this inclusive of the removal of the old wiring, rebuilding the console and the commissioning/setting up the system, however allowances must be made for any unexpected/problematic issues that may crop up ‑ this is a custom installation that's going to involve dealing with rusted cable clamps, corroded screws and all manner of other assorted niceties!!

Again, I do hope all is well with you ‑ will look forward to seeing you on your return this weekend coming.

Wednesday, 30 May, 2007 -Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: Carillon - update/report 1

5. Noted and I agree to the element‑free location and new wires all the way from that new location to the bells. I also agree to the block course and the cabinet.

6. Thanks for the estimate. I agree $4,000 to $5,000, but note also that it is a custom job.

Wednesday, 30 May, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: Carillon - update/report 1

1) Will arrange for Camera's carpentry to quote for the repairs to the roof door, steps and the crafting of the cabinet for the relays etc. Camera's do excellent work.

3) Will arrange for BCM/Decosta to quote for the de‑rusting. Should not interfere with our work. I will also ask Universal Electric to quote for the power supply rerouting etc.

4) I have heard back from Andrew, just waiting for confirmation of his costs/UPS etc. He advised that the parts are ordered. Have advised him of the need to move ASAP and the June completion date.

5) Thanks, will proceed ASAP - will source a general contractor for the blocking etc. It's only a small area about 2' x 3'

Work will commence tomorrow or Friday, starting with the removal of the old cables, disconnection of the power supply, relay cabinet and so on. Will purchase the new cable on Friday.

Incidentally, the breaker panel in the tower (services the A/C and the bells) is shot, rusted to pieces, removing the cover (disintegrated screws) will be a challenge - am advising that the Church replace it!

Thursday, 31 May, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: Carillon update/report 1

Thursday, 31 May, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: Carillon - steelwork 1

I've spoke with Andy at D&J Construction - as you know they are experts with steel fabrication etc.

D&J advise that they can project manage the restoration of the carillon steel work. As such they would undertake part of the work, supervising other specialists as needed. Although possibly more costly that sourcing a single person to do the job, this method would result in superior work, which I think is what you're driving at. I'm meeting with Andy tomorrow at some point to examine the steelwork in detail after which he will be able to furnish a quotation. The important thing here I think is to arrest the degeneration before it becomes worse, presently it's still manageable. Costs need to be controlled course, another reason perhaps to have this work managed by D&J??

Integral with this work would be the protection of the bells during the refurbishment of the frame. I would of course keep a close eye on everything.

How do you feel about this approach??? Any suggestions of comments or directions please??

Wednesday, 6 June, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: Carillon - steelwork 1

Adrian
Thanks for your message.
The approach (using D&J) is fine although terms like 'project manage' make it sould like a bigger project than I had envisaged. Perhaps you could get a cost estimate from them.
Thanks again, John

Thursday, 7 June, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: Carillon report 2

Hi John, Will try to brief - I met with D&J today to review the work that we've been discussing thus far regarding the bell frame, woodwork/steps and the work necessary to prepare the new location for new relay cabinet. I've opted to ask D&J to quote for all the work as they've been most prompt and efficient at seeing to the matter thus far, extraordinarily so in fact. Today I was able to meet with the carpenter re. the steps etc. and also the steelwork person. Here's what being proposed to you - 1) To replace the rotten sections of the steps to the bell chamber platform make safe and renew only as necessary. 2) To replace the ladder leading to the tower roof (the existing one is dangerous - without this, # 3 below cannot be done) 3) To replace the tower roof access door (to keep the rain out of the bell chamber) - the old AC piping hanging from the wall will also be cut off as it presents a hazard to persons accessing the bell chamber. 4) To clear out the remaining debris, junk and paraphernalia that currently occupies the 3 level platform, including the old relays, clappers, wiring and other mess etc. 5) To prepare the new location for the relay installation 6) To provide AC power to the new relay location 7) To wire brush (manual and power) and clean as much of the rust as possible off the steel bell frame - to clear the bell chamber of rust shavings and debris - to prep the frame with a special rust inhibitor (activates with the rust to form a protective barrier) - to red lead the entire frame, top to bottom. (the bells would be protected during the process) This will restore, protect and arrest the degeneration in the steelwork that supports the bells. Rain access to bell chamber has contributed to the rust, hence the importance of replacing the roof door # 3 above. Rain must be kept out of the bell chamber as much as possible. 8) To provide a new lock for the tower access gallery door, this for security purposes. (the existing one is broken) I am expecting a quote for the above at some point tomorrow morning and will get back to you again immediately this arrives. D&J are all set to go, pending your approval and could start work on Monday should this be deemed satisfactory. Digital pictures would be taken of the work as it progressed. The timing would appear to be excellent as it would seem that we can get all this work out of the way before we install the new electrical/electronic system which makes sense. I am still awaiting confirmation from Andrew re. the shipping costs but imagine that he can't furnish this until he has the parts - just as soon as we know this (pending you approval) we can get the funds off. All being well the parts will arrive just after the works above have been completed. Again, I am still hoping to complete everything before the end of the month!! In any event, I'll be back to you tomorrow!

Thursday, 7 June, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Fwd: Fw: Carillon report 2

Adrian
Thanks for the update.
It sounds like a lot of work, but I am sure it is necessary to protect the investment in the bells.
I look forward to seeing the D&J quote hopefully they will be mindful that this is charity.
As always, thanks for you attention to detail.
Kind regards, John

Dear John, I am attaching the proposal from D&J for the remedial work in the in tower B the proposal is largely self explanatory but unfortunately and regrettably very expensive. However, some of these expenses, in the order of about 5K should really be underwritten by the Church, such as the missing tower roof door, unsafe ladders etc. These are access items, but are of course vital to the carillon. As a way forward I=d perhaps suggest that we meet with Rev. Nick to go over the work that has been outlined?? In any event, after all this, I rather suspect that you may not want to proceed with this part of the project at this time, however should this be the case, the work could commence immediately. We must however complete the work necessary for the mounting of the relays etc. Will look forward to your instructions and comments just as soon as possible, as noted this work could commence immediately but if we are to shelf the work, possibly for now, I need to let D&J know fairly soon! For now, Always, Adrian..

Wednesday, 13 June, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Fwd: RE: Fw: Carillon - D&J quotation 1

Thanks for your message. As you say, it is a bit expensive.
Can you give me the overall picture:
}D&J - $19615
}Yourself - I think you said $4000 to $5000
}Andrew Sixsmith's materials - do we have an estimate yet?
And would the above be the total?

Very quick one, am literally running out the door.. Will chase Andrew re. the final from his end, just waiting on the freight and the extra for the 2 solenoids and that should be that. Plz remember that Rev, Nick is aware that some work must be done re the steps and the tower door etc, so it would be reasonable I think to approach the Church for a contribution to the costs... will be in touch again later or tomorrow (very busy day tomorrow, 2 graduation services at St. Theresa's etc... hope you're having a great day.. For now, Adrian..

Thursday, 21 June, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Fwd: Fw: RE: RE: Fw: Carillon ‑ D&J quotation 1

Adrian
I left voice messages on your telephone the other day.
Are you able to give me any further estimates or even guestimates (or give me the amounts that you are aware of)? I would like to discuss the complete package with my brothers and mother, and then make a decision to proceed, and proceed quickly.
Thanks again, John

Good morning John, Many thanks for the below ‑ actually I didn=t receive your telephone messages for some reason, I=m so sorry. Please, which number did you leave them on, 799-1540 or 297-2192, both have been problematic recently.. In any event, I=m just in from work and will get onto this later today. I have wedding rehearsal tomorrow 11-1 along with a few other commitments after which I=ll get back to the computer and see if can=t get this thing together for you. We have all the prices, save the UPS from the UK and the 2 solenoids. I believe that we should be able to estimate these costs (I=ll do my best) after which you=ll have a more complete picture of the project. I=ll be back to you later today! Thanks John and hope you have a good morning! Adrian..

Adrian
Thanks for your message.
I look forward to receiving your complete estimate (barring, perhaps, UPS & 2 Solenoids).
Maybe we could then have a brief chat.
Thanks again, John

Monday, 25 June, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP

Hello John,

Apologies for the delay, have been involved with the planning for the Gosling funeral at St. P on Wed. Will be a big service..
Here's what we have in terms of something approaching the bottom line for the Carillon project..

D&J 19,615.00 (firm quote in hand)
6Smith 13,680.00 (firm quote email 6,830.00 ,)
Bell solenoids 400.00 (2 @ about 100 , each estimate)
Freight 1,400.00 (incoming from the UK estimate)
Bda Organ 4,500.00 (Approx, but not to exceed 5K)

This gives us a total off some $ 39,595.00 for the restoration package. This will provide/ensure the professional restoration/treatment/protection of the steelwork, replacement of the wood structures essential to the safety of those who must maintain the carillon in the future, the replacement of the tower roof hatch, the removal of all debris and the installation of all new electrical/electronic systems.

As per our previous discussions, D&J can start promptly but as advised by Andrew, the electronics package is not slated to be ready for shipment for another 3 weeks or so. I am away in August B if the materials arrive mid July we can start the electronics work, if the materials arrive later, we will have to commence the work on my return, Sept 7 or so.

For now then, do hope you're having a great day!
Cheers and thanks,
Adrian.

Monday, 25 June, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: RE: Fw: RE: RE: Fw: Carillon report 3

Adrian
Thanks for your message below.
I agree to the estimate. Please, therefore, ask D&J to begin their work and do what you can to hurry Sixsmiths along. It would be ideal to have this all done before you go off on holidays.
Thanks, as always, for your help.
John

Monday, 25 June, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: CONFIRMED RE: Fw: RE: RE: Fw: Carillon report 3

Thanks John,
I will get everything underway tomorrow - many thanks again, it's a privilege and pleasure to be able to work with you on this project.
I'll report back to you again tomorrow.
Cheers for now,
Adrian..

Briefly, I have secured a commencement date with D&J, Mr. Andy Pereira confirms that they will commence work on July 2. I do hope this meets with you approval?

I am required to furnish D&J with a schedule of Church events so that we do not run into conflicts with the work, weddings and memorials etc. Funerals are more problematic and will just have to be flexible with these, obviously we cannot be banging and making noises during these services!

All being well though, this part of the work will proceed smoothly, it being my intention to take pictures throughout, before, during and after as it were. Upon completion I will assemble a little booklet detailing the restoration and outlining the carillon history.

Finally I have also asked D&J if they require a deposit and if so how would they like the remaining quotas to be taken care of. Usually it=s four installments, before, 2 during, and the final on satisfactory completion.

Tuesday, 26 June, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: Carillon D&J commencement data 1

Adrian
Noted and thanks.
Let me know if D&J need a deposit.
JCRC

Yes D&J have confirmed that, if acceptable with you, they would appreciate 1/3 down, 1/3 at the halfway point and 1/3 upon the satisfactory conclusion of the works. Please could you advise if this arrangement meets with your approval??

Will be out of the office today, we have the Gosling funeral at St. P and I=m rather up to my neck in it as they say! Will be back to you again tomorrow night!

Thursday, 28 June, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: RE: Carillon D&J commencement data 1

Adrian

I have a cheque for $6,538 payable to D&J here. How would you like me to deliver it to you?

JCRC

Thursday, 28 June, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: Carillon ‑ D&J deposit arrangements 1

Many thanks, if it=s acceptable with you, I=ll pop by your office tomorrow afternoon and collect. I will then hand deliver to D&J, collecting a receipt from them for you at the same time. This should keep things moving swiftly along!

Hello John, Quick note to say thanks for the check etc., picked up safely and hand delivered to D&J along with a key to the Church, this so that work can proceed without the inevitable problems associated with access etc. As promised I will collect a receipt from D&J at some point tomorrow (Thurs) and will deliver to your office shortly thereafter. Finally, I have taken the first batch of Abefore@ pics ‑ will be doing this throughout the job so that you have a pictorial record of the work for you records etc. Will report back to you again later in the week.. In hasteY cheers then.. Adrian..

Wednesday, 4 July, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: RE: Carillon - report 04/07/07 -

I would be very interested in seeing the pictures. If they are in electronic form, perhaps you could send them to my private email address: johncollis@jexec.bm.

Sunday, 8 July, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: St John's Carillon

Adrian
When you get a chance, I would be interested in seeing the pictures. You can send them electronically to this email address.
Thanks, John

Wednesday, 11 July, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: St John's Carillon

Hi John As promised, attached are 29 pics! I have more but these should give you an idea of how things are coming along. The A pics are all before work, the B pics at various points along the way. I will continue to document the project as we continue to move along! In haste, more presently.. do hope all's well with you and family. Cheers and many thanks..

Thursday, 12 July, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: St John's Carillon

Adrian
Thanks for the pictures.
You can view them at http://www.john.bm/Gallery/StJohnBells2007/index.html.
John

Friday, 3 August, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: St John's Carillon UK shipment is on the way

Hi John, Good news, the shipment from Andrew Sixsmith is on the way B ETA 8th August. We have final on the costs as follows B The cost of the timber crate, packing and UPS will be GBP ,768 add this to the cost of the equipment GBP , 6,840 will make a total cost of GBP ,7,608 Please, if it might be possible for a check to be ready for this amount on Monday/Tuesday, we'll get the wire transfer off the same day etc. In haste, but hope you're enjoying the holiday! For now, all the best, Adrian.

Sunday, 5 August, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Re: St John's Carillon UK shipment is on the way

Adrian
It is good to hear that the Sixsmith stuff is en route.

I will try to get a cheque to you as soon as possible.
However, I need to know the amount (including wire fees) in Bermuda Dollars.
Alternatively, I suppose, I could send you about BD$15,800.00 and you could credit any surplus against your fees.

I trust you had a good long weekend holiday.
Kind regards, John

Monday, 10 September, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: St. John's lightning strike July 25th bell controller work underway

Hi John Welcome home, hope you had a great trip etc., thanks for your call this morning.. As I think I started to explain in my phone message, St. John's was hit by a huge bolt of lightning (near or almost direct) on July 25th. The strike destroyed or damaged the air conditioning system electronics, the PA system and the entire Sixsmith organ control system (same system as the bell controller but more of it) it's just fortuitous that we did not rush ahead and try to complete the carillon work before my vacation started, if we had, it would have been destroyed as well. Talk about a scary coincidence B everything thing kept telling me not to start the work but to leave it until SeptY In any event the AC has finally been fixed but the damage to the organ remains B Andrew is compiling the costs at his end, the parts amounting to about , 27,500.00 freight, labour, installation and the temp console will be on top of this B as you can imagine the final insurance claim is going to be substantial, we can only hope the insurance company will be gracious and will settle promptly. In the meantime we have built and installed a temporary organ console (using 1968 technology!!) which allows much of the organ to be played but not all of it. This work and miles of wiring alone took 2 weeks of solid work and ruined my holiday! As a result of all this, work of the carillon was delayed and indeed I believe that we should not attempt to commission the system until a number of protective measures have been implemented including reworking the tower lightning conductor, grounding the bell frame (this is very important as this large chunk of steel very effectively attracts lightning discharges and remains polarized during thunderstorms, all of which could have contributed to the demise of the earlier carillon system and the AC which is powered from breakers in the tower B all this wiring would have been polarized during the strike), the installation of a true ground with earthing rods, this protecting the bell controller and the organ, the furnishing of a dedicated supply with commercial lightning/surge arresting equipment for the bell controller and organ, the furnishing of a master disconnect for the same, the furnishing of UPS devices for the organ and the bell controller along with the provision of 2 dedicated (special) power sockets for the bell controller and the organ console. We are along going to install a disconnect (plug/socket) for the bell controller output allowing the bell console to be completely disconnected from the tower during storms. Getting all this approved may be a challenge but clearly it seems pointless putting everything back together when so many risk factors remain. In any event, I will keep you posted on all thisY Meanwhile, I have started on the rebuilding of the bell console B thus far everything is going well although a number of parts are physically different from the originals requiring some ingenuity to make them fit. For example, the new power supply module for the cage (a modern switch mode unit) has completely different terminals and pin outs B currently we are waiting for Andrew to confirm the new configuration after which we will have to alter the wiring to accommodate the new layout. The display presented similar challenges. As of today, we have installed the new touch screen controller, the new program card reader module and the console power supply. We have yet to fit the power unit mentioned above and the new cards in the console cage. Once the console has been rebuilt it will be set aside whilst we install the new relay cabinet and rewire the bells etc. Nothing will be finally connected together until the lightning issues have been resolved as suggested above B certainly the bell controller must not be attached to the long cable run to the tower until we can sure that we have covered all possibilities, at least as far as is humanly possible. I'll write again once when we have completed the bell console rebuild, this marking the end of the second phase of the work as it were! Again, hope all's well with you and family and hope to see you soon, please call me at any time should you have any questions, comments or concerns..

Thursday, 13 September, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: FW: St. John's bell console restoration complete.

Dear John, not sure if you received the below, sent Sept 10th, this in reply to your phone message, am sending again just in case. (plz scroll down) Good news today! B I write to let you know that bell console has been fully restored and that all systems are now up and running. J ! The job was very tedious as many of the parts were physically different from the originals, requiring alterations to various board mountings, wiring harnesses and so forth. We have replaced every component in the system including the 2 power units, the system controller, ADE card, opto input card, main bus driver card, the display/touch screen complete, the card reader and the output driver card. We have cleaned the unit inside and out and for now have removed the power cable so that the unit cannot be run until the lightning protection work has been carried out in full. Next week we will start on the relay cabinet mounting but alas Andrew did not send the cable glands. We are currently waiting for confirmation of the cable size so that we can size the new glands accordingly, same for the power in and the note cable input from the console. Once we have the glands in place we will wire the bells and replace the 2 failed solenoid coils B again, nothing should be left running until all possible measures have been implemented to protect the system from lightning discharges etc., these including the grounding of the bell frame itself. In any event, I do hope this mail finds you in good health B hope you had a super holiday. Looking forward to speaking with you shortly.

Adrian
Thanks for the two updates (I did receive the first, but have been very busy since my return).
I will call you later today.
John

Tuesday, 25 September, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: St. John's bell console restoration complete.

Hello John,

Just in from St. John's.

Everything went well this evening we dismantled the relay cabinet, got the case drilled up for the cable glands, power and signal cables, installed the glands, installed 3 cable combs (salvaged from the old panel) on the new relay chassis and got most things ready for wiring up etc. The cabinet is fiberglass, not plastic by the way, so it should last forever when closed the unit is completely sealed from the environment. This is a top of the line industrial enclosure.

This work carries on from our earlier sessions last week in which we dismantled the old relay cabinet, disconnected the power, removed all the old wiring, salvaged various parts (as above) and also removed all the old bell wiring in the bell chamber including all the broken terminal blocks and the connections right up to the solenoid wiring.

As per our telcon, this afternoon we purchased the new cable, all 1,257 feet of it!!!! It's a 16/3, one gauge smaller than the old cable and almost exactly half the price. It's still SJ so it's just as robust as the previous cable but will be easier to work and will be less invasive in the cramped relay cabinet where the cores must be run the cable combs to keep things neat and tidy. I also purchased new terminal blocks for the connections at the solenoids, also the cable markers for identifying each cable.

In any event I'm pleased with the way the cabinet is shaping up and am delighted that we were able to get the cable, almost exactly the amount we needed and the last available anywhere, so this was very good luck indeed. Amazing really..

With regard the above, I am attaching today's invoice from Universal, this for the cable etc. If it's not too much trouble, please, I am wondering if it might be possible to square this one away before you leave? If so that would be really terrific, no worries if not, but it would be a great help if possible. I can pop over and pick up from reception at any time!

I'll keep you posted as the work continues and will also be taking more pictures, these including the bell console rebuild, the old relay panel and the building and installation of the new one, bell wiring et al..!!

Look forward to seeing you soon,

Best regards and with many thanks,

Adrian..

Thursday, 27 September, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Fwd: Fw: St. John's - bell console restoration complete.

Adrian
I have a cheque available for collection from CD&P for $641.29 payable to yourself. If you give me a postal address, I can mail it to you to save you the trouble of coming in.
Thanks for the report on progress below.
JCRC

Wednesday, 17 October, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: Fw: St. John's - tower work almost complete - picture update

Apologies for the delay in writing this update for you. Work has been ongoing but with several interruptions for continuing work on the organ et al.

Nevertheless, I am very pleased to be able to write to let you that the following works have been accomplished ‑

In the tower we removed the final remains of the old bell solenoid wiring. The terminal block connectors had all corroded into one big mess, so we had to trim back the solenoid leads and replace all the terminal blocks. When the cables were installed last time the wires were not tinned (soldered) allowing corrosion to take over and spread up inside the wire insulation. All the solenoid wiring (all 75 leads) was stripped back to reveal good wire and then each carefully tinned in preparation for insertion into the terminal connectors.

In the old relay area we removed the remains of the old bell cables and disconnected them from the old relay cabinet. We have also disconnected the signal cable and have routed this down to the new location. Instead of routing the heavy gauge cables into the new relay cabinet, we are installing a separate junction box where the heavy cable will transition into a smaller signal cable which will be connected with the relay cabinet via a sealed flexible conduit. This will allow the relay cabinet to remain sealed from the environment, this sort of seal not being possible with the heavy cable, the fittings for which are not available. Additionally the heavy cables are too large for the opto isolator PC board connectors, this placing undo strain on the connectors.

In the bell chamber we have swept the floor and cleaned up after the painters B to this end we have purchased a dustpan and broom set for the chamber, this to remain in the chamber for future cleaning which should be carried out periodically. (at least twice a year)

After much thought, we decided to route all the bell cables in conduit rather then leaving them unprotected descending through the tower. It was possible, just, to accommodate all 25 cables in a single 2@ conduit however, the bending necessary would have prevented the cables from being drawn in location. As a result it was decided to prepare the entire assembly on the Church floor.

The conduit was cut to the exact length and all 25 cables were accurately prepared to the length needed in the bell chamber at one end and the length required for the relay cabinet at the other. Overall the whole assembly stretched 55' long, the longest cable being for D2! The conduit, along with all 1,250' of wire was then hauled up into the tower, installed though the floor of the bell chamber and routed neatly down to the new relay cabinet. LB boxes were used to transition through 90 degree bends whilst the conduit is supported from the bell chamber floor via proper clamps etc. Over the course of several days last week the cables were laced and installed correctly through the bell frame (the cable clamps on the frame were unbolted and then re attached), the individual wires tinned (soldered) and then connected to the solenoid terminal bock connectors. The wiring was then tested. (see pictures of the conduit/cables being prepared) The cables are also more securely attached to each bell then was previously the case.

The relay cabinet has been installed in its new location on the block work that D & J prepared for us earlier. A sheet of ply acts as a moisture barrier and provides a convenient method of attachment for the case B the ply was given 3 coats of undercoat prior to mounting the cabinet. Prior to mounting, the 25 holes were drilled for the cable glands and holes prepared for the power intake and signal input. The cable glands were each tightened securely with a special tool, this ensuring a moisture proof seal. (see pictures of the glands in place along with the cables) Interestingly the cabinet is secured with moisture proof housings for the screws, these ensuring that the unit remains sealed completely. (see pictures)

Presently the relay panel has been installed (see pics) and we are working on the power and signal input arrangements. Once these have been finalized the relay panel will be wired and preliminary testing will be possible.

Tomorrow we will be purchasing the UPS and the APC surge strip for the tower installation and hope to have these installed during the next couple of days.

As such, we are totally complete in the bell chamber although we must replace the 2 failed coils, this will be done once the system is powered up.

Thus far all is going well, although we have had to deal with numerous problems, all of which, I am glad to say, have been resolved.

Finally, we have a simple design in place for remotely turning the tower power on and off. A spare pair in the signal cable can be used to switch a solid state relay in the tower (same voltage as the control signals), this furnishing power to the relay cabinet UPS. Whenever the console is on, the tower will be on B simple! The solid state relay we suggest for this application is the same as the units used in the organ to remotely start the blowers from the console ‑ this unit can be supplied by Andrew for about ,120, plus freight (1 small box) ‑ do please let me know if you would like me to get a unit ordered for you?

All being well I am hoping that we should have the basic system complete toward the end of next week.

I will forward another batch of pics for you, these of the bell chamber and the bell chamber wiring harness.

Hope all's well with you and that your trip was a great success! Talk to you soon.

Wednesday, 17 October, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: RE: Fw: St. John's - tower work almost complete - pictureupdate

Adrian
Thanks for the update. You have obviously done a ton of work over the two weeks that I have been away!

I like the proposal for remotely turning the tower power on, so please go ahead and order a solid state relay from Andrew at £120, plus freight.

Let me know when I can meet you at the church for a walk around (but not this Wednesday or Thursday).

You must be needing some payment for your services to date. If you let me have a note of your charges and disbursements (an email will suffice), I will arrange for a cheque to be drawn.

Kind regards, John

Saturday, 20 October, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
RE: Fw: St. John's - brief update

Thanks John, will reply properly at some point tomorrow if I can, if not I’ll be in touch again on Monday and we’ll set up a tour!

In brief…

Tested out 1 bell with the system running on the UPS today. Relay cabinet is just about finished, all bells are now connected etc., the power from the UPS connected, the signal cable stripped back and installed in its junction box and the new signal cable installed in its conduit and routed from the signal junction box to the relay cabinet. All connections have been done with liquid tight connectors. All 25 bell “grounds” have been terminated on a proper “grounding strip” with screws rather than wire nuts - all terminations were soldered prior to installation on the strip.

Next we have to replace the 2 failed coils, they’re dead shorts of course so this will be the next battle – low G and low A.

Finally, before running the whole system on the new relays I’m going to test out all the bells one by one using a test rig derived from parts of the old relay panel – after each bell is tested it will be reconnected to the new relay panel.

Will order the solid state power relay from Andrew tomorrow am, thanks! Will probably get the wiring in place for this on Sunday afternoon.

Hope you have a great day, more later…

Cheers and many thanks John..

Adrian

Sunday, 28 October, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: St John's Bells - Congratulations!

I was at church this morning and heard the bells ringing for the first time in some while. Bill tells me that you were 'up all night' which is service well beyond the call of duty. Thanks so much for your tremendous efforts. Call me when convenient and we can have a walk around.

Wednesday, 31 October, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: THANK YOU!!! RE: St John's Bells - Congratulations!

Thanks John, so appreciate this, very kind of you and am so glad that you were at Church on Sunday!

As per my phone message to today, we’re almost there but still have few details to sort out including the remote tower start relay (wiring is ready) and figuring a way to turn the display back light off when the display is disabled. The old display had one signal wire that did both functions, the new one requires separate arrangements for the display and the back light. Have emailed Andrew re this today.

Next we need to determine when and how the unit is to play and come up with a timetable of events (if indeed the unit is going to be left running all the time) and to then program the various peels and melodies etc. I gather we have to be careful not to upset the neighbors!!!!!!!

In any event, so far so good. Hope to catch you later today or possibly tomorrow for a walk round etc. I’d also like to say how much I’ve enjoyed this undertaking and how appreciative I am for having had the opportunity to undertake the restoration. Cheers and thank you so much!

Friday, 2 November, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: Fwd: Fw: THANK YOU!!! RE: St John's Bells - Congratulations!

Adrian
I am sorry that I could not reply earlier to your message below, but I have been busy.
I left you voice messages today on both your numbers, but I am sure you too are busy.
I would still like to have a quick tour of the work. The evenings (after 5:00pm) next week look likely to be a little easier for me. Let me know when might be convenient to meet you at the church.
Have a good weekend.
John

Friday, 2 November, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Fwd: RE: Fw: THANK YOU!!! RE: St John's Bells -Congratulations!

Thanks John,

Just had word from Andrew that the parts were on back order, will be available on the 15th which is pain. I’ll see what we can do to speed this up, frustrating especially as we’re so close to finishing!

I’ll keep you posted, but in any event, finished or not we could do a walk around next Sat afternoon if that would be good with you, not this Saturday, next one!

In haste,

All the best and thanks very much!

Cheers!

Adrian..

Friday, 9 November, 2007 - Email from JCRC to Adrian TOP
Subject: RE: Fw: THANK YOU!!! RE: St John's Bells - Congratulations!

Adrian
Thanks for your message.
I am in meetings all day Saturday, 17 Nov, and going away the following Sat, 24 Nov. I would like to see the finished job; so, if the missing parts will be here some time after 15 Nov, maybe we should wait until they have been installed - say, the week of 3 to 7 Dec?
JCRC

Friday, 9 November, 2007 - Email from Adrian TOP

Hi John,
Yes, that would seem to make the greatest sense, thanks, let’s go with a tour then during the week Dec. 3-7 – everything will be complete by then for sure.
Nothing from Andrew this morning re. the parts, but am hoping for an update latter this afternoon – will keep you posted.
For now, take care,
Cheers and thanks!
Adrian..

Monday, 26 November, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: COMPLETE!!! RE: Fw: THANK YOU!!! RE: St John's Bells - Congratulations!

Just a quick note to advise you that the work on the carillon is now properly complete. The remote start parts arrive last week and were installed before the weekend. We also had to replace all the power transformers (5) on the relay boards which were found to be incorrect – the new units by Radio Spares (UK) are very superior to the Clarietronic specimens that were initially supplied.

All that remains is to determine how to best use the system and to work out a maintenance agreement if you’d like one put in place. With regard the first, I would suggest that the system be left on a little as possible and basically played manually as much as possible. It could be activated with a timer so that the system comes on and auto plays peals at 12 noon and again at 5 pm (or sim) but I would strongly resist leaving it running 24/7. Another idea was that Bill might come down and play it manually at 12 each day… he will play it every Sunday however before the main Service.

In any event, I’d love to meet with you and give you the complete tour, starting in the bell chamber through to the console. I think that you will agree that relay installation is very neat and is just exactly what was needed in terms of environmental protection, access for maintenance and protection from BELCO events! All in all, I’m very pleased with how the project has turned out.

I still want to add a few diagnostic indicators, one at the console to indicate that all 5 relay power units are on – if any one of the 5 should fail this will be indicted at the console – relay power fail.

On the relay cabinet itself I want to install 2 neon indicators, one for UPS supply running and remote start relay on.

Finally, service labels will be attached to the UPS cabinet and the relay enclosure along with warning labels for high voltage and static sensitive components.

On the console we can install a little plate to indicate the date of the rebuild along with any other info you’d like to include, in memory of, etc. This can be brass or ivory (synthetic) as you’d prefer – please let me know about wording if you’d like to include this otherwise the plate will simply detail the date and the company name.

Congratulations; everything sounds fantastic and I remain keen to have a tour. We have a tentative plan to meet next week, Tuesday, 4th December at 4:00pm at the Church - is that still ok with you? I could do (i) later on Tuesday, (ii) Wednesday afternoon or (iii) Friday afternoon.

One thing for you to consider, I agree entirely that we should try to avoid the system being live 24/7. Still, we need to get some enjoyment out of it while managing any 'unnecessary' risk. Demanding that Bill turn up every noon is probably impractical.

So, I like the idea of 'a timer so that the system comes on and auto plays peals at 12 noon and again at 5 pm or a similar program' Perhaps we can discuss this next week. We need to know what components would need to be left on for this purpose (as opposed to those that would be turned on and off by the process, including, presumably, the whole tower system) and how easily and costly it is to repair/replace those components that stay on, assuming a hit.

Tuesday, 27 November, 2007 - Email from Adrian to JCRC TOP
Subject: RE: St John's Bells: Complete - Congratulations!

Thanks and do hope all’s going well for you in Mauritius, sounds very glamorous!Yes, Tues 4th at 4pm is good for the tour/meeting etc. Can’t do the 5th, am at Tuckers Point with the choir (caroling!)Glad you like the idea of the timer – I’ll do some hunting around and will see what I can find that will offer the facilities required - I would not suggest the typical type found is Gorham’s though, better to find a good quality commercial digital unit I think. In any event, I will look into this. As you say, it’s not really practical having Bill come everyday at noon, even with the best of intentions!The only components that would remain active live whilst on the timer system would be the 2 UPS units (tower and console), all else would be off until switched – again as the console now turns on the tower systems, everything would remain off, limiting damage to the UPS units which are intended to be sacrificial. We really should install a “line” protection unit on the main tower panel which would then add another layer of defense to the system.At St. Paul’s, our fragile digital multiplex organ control system has never been damaged over the past 14 years, due mostly to the multilayered protection system that we installed back then – proof that a belt and braces approach is worth the trouble I think!Ultimately I also think it might also be prudent to have on hand, for future use, a number of spares for the system – these will only get more expensive as time goes by.Would perhaps suggest –Tower -1 spare relay board - approx $ 150.00

Console –1 spare cage power supply - approx $ 100.001 spare tower opto supply - approx $ 60.00

It’s hard to do a cost/risk analysis on this sort of system and one installed in this sort of environment, all things considered, we’ve tried to cover everything that is practically possible, however the unforeseen can still happen – it’s not practical to back the whole thing up, that would be wasteful, but the above suggestions may cover most bases. The power units would go first and the fragile display/controller unit, hence these as suggestions. The tower parts are more robust but a spare relay board and a couple of spare relays would be wise, also 1 of the opto boards. Along with the remote start parts, I did order a bag of spare system fuses, these not being available anywhere on the Island (now that Radio Shack has gone)I confess that I remain a little concerned, as of course the Church has done absolutely nothing whatever in terms of taking steps to limit or mitigate the effects of a similar strike – the recommendations included a power conditioner system in the BELCO intake room, grounding the bell tower, inspecting and beefing up the tower lightning conductors, installing a ground rod (true earth) system for the organ and bell console and so on. I really can’t fathom why they’ve made no effort whatever on these points. Interestingly BF&M are concerned of course, the organ repairs are somewhat in excess of $ 80K, it being rather foolish to expend this sort of sum on the new materials without doing something to help prevent a similar disaster…. Church politics I suppose…In any event, we can discuss all this on Tues when we meet, meanwhile I do hope all is going well for you and wish you all the best for a safe trip home.Cheers and many thanks!