Ideal 55 modification.

[GreenMo]

I searched old posts and threads but did not come across any related to my question.   

I'm considering converting a pepsi 55 to an open top cooler sans rack and coin box.   Would it be possible to remove the coin box mounting plate from the side body without damaging the unit.  It seems like it's welded on pretty good. 

[cohammer]

I would think you could take an end grinder and thin cutting wheel and cut the welds until the plate is loose and then slowly grind the welds down until its smooth enough for bondo and paint touch up .

[SIGNGUY]

I don't see how the coin box mounting plate would interfere with you using it as a reach in cooler? I'd leave it alone incase you ever want to convert back or sell. plus you have to do this prior to any restoration as you will have to do body work to make it look good once grinding and such?

[brasskey]

I don't see how the coin box mounting plate would interfere with you using it as a reach in cooler? I'd leave it alone incase you ever want to convert back or sell. plus you have to do this prior to any restoration as you will have to do body work to make it look good once grinding and such?

I agree. That mounting plate doesn't stick up too high. It doesn't come off without major work like as cohammer eluded to.

[ajf5577]

Plus the future resale value will be harmed after you go to all of that work. I'd leave it. Maybe decorate it somehow to blend in?

[GreenMo]

Thanks for your replies.  You all make good points.  I've considered removing it because without the coin mech attached it basically looks like something's missing.   Once done  it's going to be given away as wedding gift to a non collector who brews his own beer.    He's far from a purist.    The atlas junior electric (dr pepper) resembles the ideal 55 and looks pretty sleek as it never had a coin mech and therefore no metal bracket.   

[Slider-Bob]

Thanks for your replies.  You all make good points.  I've considered removing it because without the coin mech attached it basically looks like something's missing.   Once done  it's going to be given away as wedding gift to a non collector who brews his own beer.    He's far from a purist.    The atlas junior electric (dr pepper) resembles the ideal 55 and looks pretty sleek as it never had a coin mech and therefore no metal bracket.   

So does a Glasco GBV-50 Slider (no bracket on side)

[BeaYoung]

I personally wouldn't remove the bracket... It's not that apparent and removing it diminishes the value of the machine IMHO.

[Creighton]

No reason to remove that bit. Will just get lost down the road.
Creighton