Restoration

Have 2 Vendo 44's in the barn that I have had for over 25 years.  Now that I am retired I'm thinking about restoring them myself.  

Anyone that has done the restorations themselves, do you have any suggestions on what books I should start with?

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Ben

[Jim]

Ben,

Unfortunately, there are no books on restoring old soda machines/coolers... At least not yet! (hmm...)
I'm not sure to what extent you're going to do the work yourself... May I suggest having the paint and possible body work done by someone in your area that comes recommended.
As far as the lettering is concerned, there has been a few discussions on this board on lettering... My opinion leans toward having the embossing hand painted by an accomplished sign painter.
The coin mechanism will need to be sent our for restoration; especially if it's not functioning properly.
If the refrigeration needs work, that will require a professional to repair/replace the condensing unit or what ever it may need.
Many of the metal parts will need to be replated whether it's chrome or zinc.

So, with that said, what's left for you to do...? PLENTY
You'll have to disassemble everything down to all the components so individual attention can be paid to every part! Since this is your first, and we all remember our first, restoration that is!!!  I suggest taking pictures during any disassembly process; close-ups as well. Gather small containers to lable parts/groups of parts that are associated. Zip lock bags work well since you can write on them. These are very good for screws as well since you'll have to identify and replace all screws and bolts during the assmbly process. I would contact any of the Parts Suppliers and acquire a manual so you can see what reproduction parts are available such as decals, gaskets etc.
At the end of it all, you have to be very careful during the assembly phase so you don't damage anything.
Lastly, there are always people here to lend a hand should questions arise...

[MoonDawg]

Jim- well said!
Ben, one thing you have in your favor as a first timer is two machines identical. My advice is to only restore one machine at a time,(the roughest one first).                                When it comes time for re-assembly you may want to refer back to the other machine as a guide.
One exception is the chrome, you will probably get a better deal if it is all done in the same batch.      Glen

Glen thanks for the reply.  Between you and Jim I'm getting some really good advice.

I think I'll start by getting them out of the barn and photographing them. Then I had better take some effort to protect them.  They've just been in a corner all these years not even covered.  I really didn't realize how much they could be worth. '>