1957 Morse Products MP10 Bell in motor compartment, alarm system?

[DIAS]

have no idea what this is. There's a large gray bell hanging in the engine compartment on the right side. I think it's a bell that runs on 6V. See the attached photo. Is this standard on a 1957, or was it installed afterward?

This page contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated. As an eBay Partner, and Amazon Associate I may be compensated if you make a purchase at no cost to you.

 

[kbuhagiar]

have no idea what this is. There's a large gray bell hanging in the engine compartment on the right side. I think it's a bell that runs on 6V. See the attached photo. Is this standard on a 1957, or was it installed afterward?

Not factory. Most likely for an aftermarket security system, i.e. car alarm.
Very common back in the 1970s

 

[Pink T-Bird]

have no idea what this is. There's a large gray bell hanging in the engine compartment on the right side. I think it's a bell that runs on 6V. See the attached photo. Is this standard on a 1957, or was it installed afterward?
View attachment 34844View attachment 34842

Clearly not stock. Where do the wires from the bell go? that may give you a hint to its intent. there is likely a 6V transformer somewhere since your 57 is 12V.
Could be an old security system, could be a volunteer fireman to let folks know he’s responding to a fire, could just be for novelty in parades. Finding the rest of the wiring should help. If there are splices in the headlight and taillight wiring that could point to alarm as well.