SMC Discussion Areas

I am working on a VMC 33 machine.  The coin mech works sometimes.  You can put dime in and it will vend 4 or 5 times straight.  Then put a dime in and it will act like it is going to vend and then the vending handle will release totally and you can take it clear around and will click back in place.  Anyone have any idea how to repair this?   Thanks Kent

Been a while but sounds like the handle is engaging the “clutch” mechanism from too much pressure on handle. I would look first at drum to be sure the rollers are not too tight causing the binding. Also lubricate the rollers/gears. Just my 2 cents.

Thanks for the reply jt2139.  I will give that a try.  It seems like maybe the clutch mechanism might be weak.  Even with door open and operating handle it seems way to easy to make handle break loose and  go all the way around.  Wondered if there was a way to repair the clutch mechanism ( if that is what it is) or not.  Thanks again.  Kent

Kent,

While working on this machine, did you dis-assemble the crank handle clutch assembly mounted inside the rear of the crank handle itself...?
If not, and nothing has been done to this part, I would say it is beginning to wear out...
As for repairs, yes, parts can be replaced; however, locating good condition replacement parts may be challenging... I do not think either supplier carries reproduction parts for repairs, only the complete crank handle assembly for the Vendo models...

Although this tutorial is for the Vendo Crank Handles, I believe most everything applies in your situation.
The two parts that could be the issue are #79 & #80

As Jim said, could be that the clutch pawl inside the Press Down handle is backwards. The handle is designed to easily be pulled CCW so you can open the coin door, but will also 'give' in the CW direction if enough forced is put on it. Try pulling it CCW and see if it gives as easily. If not, I bet the pawl is backwards.
As with ANY issue on these old machines, work downstream! Open the main door and see if the coin mech reacts the same when it is isolated from the rest of the mechanics. Additionally, manually twist the coupler next to the drum and see if it rotates easily. In other words, test each assembly by itself and fix/adjust accordingly.

Hi Jim and Collecture.  Thanks so much for the advise.  I restored this machine for my daughter about 3 years ago and it worked great for about 2 years then this problem started.  The handle came from Soda Jerks.  They still sell the handle on there website.  Everything works perfectly besides that darn handle.  I had never tore into one of the handles before.  Sounds like it is probably in the clutch assembly in the handle. Nothing binds at all when not using handle. Thanks guys I will look into this and give an update.

Kent

I see where Funtronics sells a rebuild kit for the vendo handle.  Do you guys know if it will work on the vendolator handle?

It should on an original, but I have no personal experience with the SJW handle or F-T's product either.

Hi, Tom

              Glad your still out there Buddy !!!

Thanks Leonard!
Still vending!

Hrdestiny,

Check out the pics and tutorial Jim had put together on how to replace your internal parts on your handle in the following thread:

Tutorials & Tips (Moderator: Jim) > Crank Handle Re-Assembly

Rod @ Funtronics also has a video on crank handle assembly on his site in the "how to video" section.

I found both of these valuable when it came time to put my Vendo crank handle back together after getting chromed.

Best of luck!