Advice for how often to run a restored Jacobs 56 soda machine

[keng]

I have a restored Pepsi-Cola Jacobs 56 soda machine that i do not run very often, about twice a year for a few days each time.  I am concerned that the refrigeration system will not be maintained properly by running the machine sporadically but do not fill or use the machine as i use a restored Vendo 81 running full time for this purpose.  What is the recommended approach or experience?  Should the machine be run more often or can it be run 1-2 times per year to keep it mechanically healthy?

Thanks for all of your thoughts in advance.

[davethebirdman]

I'm not sure I can help you with the running of the re-fridgeration...
I have a V-39 that I turn on now and again.

Perhaps you could do me a big favour... I have a Jaocbs 50. It has been re-painted and
I want to put the decals back. I need to know what was written above the bottle door, coin return,
bottle opener/cap catcher and coin shute.... The writing had worn off on mine. Looking at Jeff Walters book the 56 & 50 look like they have the same decals...

Thanks

Dave

[keng]

My machine has a decal above the coin chute that states: .10, Use nickel dime or quarter, change returned below.  Is this the decal you are looking for. I have attached some pictures.

[keng]

Also, on the RetroPlantet.com site, they have a picture of a Jacobs 56 machine restored and it does not have anything else on the front either, and nothing at the dispenser or bottle top catcher door area.

[Yarochrehc]

Once or twice a year should be fine,  just to keep the moisture out of the controls and any bearings in the fan motors from drying out. Really once a sealed unit is sealed and there aren't leaks in refrigeration system, it does not need to be ran every so often.

[dr galaga]

I would run it a couple times a year.
I gave a LaCrosse machine to a buddy of mine.  It sat unused outside of my parents place for 15+ years and when he got it he plugged it in and it fired right up and got ice cold! 

[keng]

Thanks for everyone's thoughts--a few times a year sounds fine and seems to make sense.