I need advice......

[servicer]

Hey Y'all,
Ive been considering getting into restoring vintage machines, especially Vendo Coke
machines.  But with the economy the way that it is, is it really a good time to do it?  I dont feel that I would have any problems with any repairs since ive been doing refrigeration and appliance repairs for many years, as well as welding, and have some knowledge in body and paint. But the machines seem to be few and far between, are complete basket cases for $$$$ and/or already restored. I have a truck, dolley and a shop to do the restores, I just cant seem to find any that are worth the time and trouble. Any advice you can give would be very helpful and appreciated.
Thanks...
Jerry

[bubba]

Where you at Jerry? There are machines and deals to be found just about everywhere...

[SIGNGUY]

Sounds like you are pretty handy and have a full service shop... so if you can do refridgeration, paint and body work...you can save alot of money doing it yourself. Next just find the machines.. if your doing FULL restorations Top to Bottom and completley inside and out, the guys that will be buying your stuff are not too concerned about market conditions in my opionion... yeah the average Joe contemplating on spening 1000-2500 on a Ok condition machine might hold off, but if your doing complete and true "Restorations" for example on a Vendo 81, your probably going to be asking in the 6k range... Your selling this to a different category of buyer... just have to find them as well.
Good luck in your efforts... where you at?

[MoonDawg]

are complete basket cases for $$$$ and/or already restored.

      Welcome Jerry.
      I have never seen a Vendo basket case as long as it is complete.
Maybe you are looking at these machines the same way the general public
see's them? A restorer needs to look deeply into a machine and imagine
what it is going to look like with all new paint and chrome.

      Don't worry about the economy, just get your feet wet slowly. Find
yourself a Vendo 39 for between $500 to $750 and have some fun!
      When it's done, be patient, and somebody will buy it from you........
 and that's exactly how we all got hooked.