joesquid
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« Reply #3 on: May 13, 2004, 12:00:37 am » |
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Can you tell us what type of coin mech you're using? Not to disagree with Eric, but most coin mechs will work fine with the change tube empty as long as you're using exact change in the form of dimes and nickels. Are the coins dropping straight through the slug rejector (the upper part of the coin mech) into the change return chute? In most cases the slug rejector is dirty and the counterweights (small rotating parts that the coin passes through) aren't moving freely. The whole secret behind proper operation of the slug rejector is to make sure those counterweights aren't binding up and slowing or stopping coin movement through the rejector. If that happens the coin will stick or hesitate, lose momentum and drop through the change chute. Another problem could be that the rejector lever (located on top of the coin mech) is slightly depressed and has pushed the outer part of the rejector away from the back plate just enough that the coin has too much play room and drops straight through the rejector to the change chute.
One other problem is that the CREMs (coin return electromagnets) aren't energized. Most coin changers have two, one for the .25 coin path and one for the .05/.10 coin path. The .05/.10 CREM energizes when the unit is plugged in. An easy check is to unplug the coin changer from the coke machine then plug it back in. You should hear an audible "click". That means the CREM coil is pulling the CREM arms back out of the coin path so the coins can get through the rejector. If you don't hear the click, pull the rejector off the coin changer so you can see the CREM (the .05/.10 is on the lower right side) and try the procedure again. If you don't see the CREM arms move when you plug in the changer, the coil is probably bad and needs to be replaced or rewound.
The .25 CREM will energize only if you have enough change in the change chute to activate a swing switch in the chute, which in turn, energizes the .25 CREM thus pulling its arms out of the .25 coin path.
If the CREMs seem okay, try cleaning the rejector. Remove it from the coin changer and (if plastic) soak it in a soapy water solution then rinse and air or blow dry the rejector. The old metal rejectors (from NRI units) can be boiled (yes, like in a big pot on the stove) in a soapy water solution to remove dirt and grease. Check the counterweights for free travel. If they don't swing freely, carefully remove the "c" clips with a jeweler's flathead screwdriver, pull the counterweight off, wipe the shaft clean and, if need be, add a tiny (and I mean TINY) amount of penetrating oil to the shaft. Make sure to wipe up any excess oil as it will do nothing but attract dirt. Put the counterweight back on and carefully replace the "c" clip.
I know that's alot to digest but I'm trying to hit all the obvious problems. If you need help or have questions just holler.
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