Converted vendo 83?

[bubba]

I tell ya guys, you are making this too easy for me to get into. I've walked into some forums on some other hobbies I've gotten into, and all you hear is read, read, read. Very few actually like to share the knowledge.. Thanks for the support!

I love looking at the old machines. I wish I had more room to store all my toys. I think it may be time to kick the kids outta the basement and convert it to my game room. Since I got this machine, I've been doing alot of looking around and have found many, many things I need.  
So this machine uses the 10oz bottles then. I saw some threads about refilling and bottling, and really started getting nervous. I guess Coronitas will work also '>

I'm bidding on a manual on ebay right now for the machine. For starters, I don't have the key to the lock. Someone along the way got the door open without damaging anything that I can see. If I drill the lock cylinder out, are they a standard barrel lock, or would I be better taking the whole assembly apart and getting a key made. I can't read a number on the lock cylinder.

[Eric]

There are suppliers of parts here that may help with the lock (on the Home page under suppliers)
Fun-Tronics and/or Soda Jerk Works would probaby have that lock and a copy of a manual
for you too.

Eric

[loman4ec]

The 83 takes 6.5 to 8 oz bottles. I don't know if the 10 oz work. I don't think they fit. Even though they don't bring alot of money now that doesn't mean they will always be that way. A few years ago you couldn't give square tops away and now look at what they are selling for. As the 81s, 44s, and other popular machines dry up these will be the next ones people are looking for. Besides they are great working machines. I would keep it if I were you but I think I would make it Coke again. Just my two cents.

[bubba]

I think I am going to make it a Coke machine. I'll have a look through the suppliers and see if it makes sense to just drill the lock out and replace it. The more I am talking to people about it, the more I've decided to keep it. I like projects like this, and I have the space to keep it.

[bubba]

Anyone want a V-83? I think I want to get rid of it and get something different. The machine is complete, but didn't cool. I didn't have it plugged in for more than a few minutes, so I don't know for sure. I also had the door open and it looks like there may be some type of door switch? I figured that since you guys got me started in this addiction, I'd put it up here first. I'd consider parting it out too if enough of the machine goes.

I'm in NJ, but have the ability to crate and ship from a commercial place.

[audiobeer]

My 83 would not take the 10 oz. The prices on these are crazy. I bought one local for $100 working and sold it for $800 7 years ago. I have never seen one top $450 on Ebay this past year.

[bubba]

I'm kinda torn on getting rid of it, because I like the look of it, and the way it operates. I don't like that it is only one flavor, and it takes the small bottles. My only thought if I fixed it up would be for the small bottles of water, but I don't know if I could justify a machine for just that. The way my kids have been going through the stock in my other machines, I couldn't afford to keep it stocked with small soda bottles.

[loman4ec]

If they go through them fast buy a capper and fill the bottles yourself. They wouldn't last real long buy if the kids are drinking them fast it isn't a problem. I have also heard of people filling the empty bottles with juce and caping the bottles.