Vendo 216 & VMC-149

[Ken R]

Hi All,
   New to this website discussion board, although have been referring to this site for information on various types of machines.  A few months back, I purchased my first Coke machine, a Vendo 216.  I would attach a picture, but my file size is too large.  It is mostly complete with exception of coin box, cap catcher, kickplate and lock assembly.  Uncertain if cooling system works as I need to fix a couple of worn wires before I plug it in and fry anything.  I realize not many collectors are looking for these larger models, but just curious as to its value or collectability.  Thanks.
   I just recently purchased a Vendorlator VMC-149, Coke machine.  This one is missing the internal vending system, as it was removed to make it into a "refrigerator".  I have not plugged this one in either as I still need to check all wires to ensure all is good before plugging it in.  Was told that the cooling system worked fine though.  This machine is also missing coin box, cap catcher, and lock.  Cosmetically, it's in pretty good shape with some rust on the top panel from apparently being outside.  Colors and 90% of the decals are in good shape.  Any ideas on value or collectability on this one?
   Any information provided would be greatly appreciated.  If you happen to have any of the parts listed, please let me know.  Thanks for all.

Ken

P.S.  I believe I found another VMC-149 that may have all the parts I need.  If completed the machine, how does that change the value if I can get it up and running in "original" (non-restoration) condition?

[Creighton]

Welcome to the board!!
I can't help a great deal. No need to worry about keeping the VMC-149 original. Won't change the value any.
Creighton
 

[loman4ec]

Yep the 149 will not be worth much either way. If its something you like for yourself then do for it but if you are wanting to complete it to sell don't put much into it. I have turned them down for a few hundred in the past. Without its guts its really not worth much of anything. You may be able to sell it to someone who just wants it as a big fridge but that about it. It may actually sell better that way. someone could make it into a kegerator or something like that.  Its a hard machine to find a home for. Its darn heavy and big. I don't mean to be harsh. I just want to be honest.

[cokecolaman]

Ditto

[Ken R]

Ouch.  Haha.  Didn't expect those responses, but it's good.  I knew the larger 216 is a difficult one because it is so big, but the 149 I did not figure to be all that large, especially compared to the 216.  I really appreciate the input.  I will probably spend some money on it just because I would like to make it complete, primarily just because I like it.     Thanks!!!

[Creighton]

If you like it that is the most important thing. Big plus is you don't have to refill it every hour :-)
Creighton

[COREY]

I have all the "guts" to the VMC 149 if you can't find them anywhere else.

[Ken R]

Corey,
    Thanks!  I actually just picked up most all the parts I need yesterday.  I found another almost complete machine that had been completely disassembled that someone sold to me for parts.  I think the only thing I actually need for this one to make it complete is the coin box and cap catcher.  You happen to have those??  Let me know if you need any small parts and if I have them available, perhaps we can work a trade.  Let me know!

Ken

[collecture]

Hi Ken,
Sorry, but I don't see the 149 climbing in value much either...small bottle only & big  ...two negatives.

However, I did some work for a guy recently and he had a VMC-340. I told the same thing to him and he said "I don't care....it was the LARGEST capacity bottle machine of it's era and I like that about it." He wasn't going to use it, but just admire it.

So, if you like it, then that is all that really matters. And we want some pictures!

BTW - Is your machine an automatic or crank handle version? If you have an extra decent crank coin mechanism for the machine, I'd be interested in purchasing it. LMK

[Ken R]

Collecture,
   Your name looks familiar...colamachines.com??  I appreciate the information on the values and all.  I do like the machine and how it looks, so like you said, I guess that's really all that matters, right?  Kinda hard to be too picky when pickings are slim without having to spend lots of money for shipping or delivery.  However, I have recently come across what I believe to be a VMC-33.  I guess it could be a 27, I'm not too sure how to tell the difference and have been unable to look at the tag just yet to make sure.  It is in completely original condition and is real close to looking as if it just came from the factory.  It has the double door. Any ideas on what a good value would be for that one?  Or rather what I should look at paying for it?  It is at an auction and will be auctioned off in about 2wks.  Let me know what you think.
   As for crank or auto, mine is a crank model.  I currently do have two complete coin mechs, both with cranks.  Of course, I plan on keeping the better of the two for mine, but may consider selling the other.  I may keep it and put it in the cabinet I have for the 149, as I am going to try my hand at restoring the cabinet to see if perhaps I can sell that by itself.
   By the way, seeing as you guys and others are the "experts" on these things, the parts machine I got has a chrome bottle chute and crank handle, whereas the one I have does not.  It appears to be a dull lead color.  How can I determine the manufacture date on the two machines?  I have been unable to find a "decoder" for VMC like what Vendo provides for theirs.  Thanks again for all the help!!!

Ken

P.S.  I have pics, but they're too big to post on here.  Anyone know how to reduce their size???

[loman4ec]

Sorry no way to know what the serial number is. Be careful of restoring the extra box to sell. It most likely will not bring much so the money you have in paint and parts to restore will most likely be more than it will sell for. I have tried to sell several different cabinets before as refrigerators, tool cabinets and so on and never has any lick. I always wanted to make a gun cabinet but never did it. I always thought a 60's machine with a lightup sign would make a great gun safe. I wanted to frame in behind the bottle door in cedar to use as storage for ammo and cleaning equipment and so on and make a light up sign for Winchester or Remington. You never know even in coke if done right that may spark some interest. after all vending machines are made to be impossible to break into so it would make a good safe. and yours is big enough to hold several long guns. Just a thought. Anyway I just wanted to warn you. Paint alone for a restoration along with body work and parts add up quick. Paint is especially expensive now.

[Ken R]

Loman,
   Thanks for the input.  It's been a number of years since I bought any kind of paint for cars and such, which I assume is the same sort of paint for this use.  I don't really plan on putting any parts into it other than the body and small door.  I completely see what you're talking about though.  Paint and time/labor is really about all I would have in it though.  What do you suppose on going all the way with it and restorying entire machine for sale???  Would you think I'd see any return on the VMC-149??  Thanks.

Ken

[collecture]

Ken,
Yes - I am a member at CMC as well as here - it is an addictive hobby!
I wouldn't expect a lot out of the 149 even if a full blown resto.

I restore coin mechanisms and I have worked on a few VMC mechs recently. I am looking for a VMC mech that is complete, so that if I go to restore one and a part is missing or lost by the plating company or whatever then I have a part to copy. So I am looking for completeness more than functionality or looks.
Anyone else have one to sell?