Vendo 81 Project

[msanborn]

I am attaching pictures of my almost complete Vendo 81B.  When I got the machine, it was in pretty rough shape, I spent a lot of time just cleaning it up, as I wanted to keep the original paint.  I beadblasted and powdercoated all the interior parts, rewired everything, including replacing the ballast and door switch, added new gaskets and door liner, new insulation, new compressor and wiring for the refrigeration system, new glass for the door, and had the coin mech cleaned.  I think I will regret not having it painted, but I got overcome by events, and was happy with what the cleaning, and several hours of buffing and waxing produced.  I still need to do several little things, like touch up the embossing, and the cabinet strips, etc.  At least right now, it keeps beer cold, and looks decent.  Thanks to everyone who provided advice, as this was my first 81.  M 

[bubba]

Wow.. that really cleaned up nice... good job!

[Jim]

Fantastic job ! ! !
And remember this, a machine is only original once!

[msanborn]

my thoughts exactly, thats why I was hesitant to repaint it, the inside came out really nice as well.  I found this great cleaner that really cut through the grease and grime, I will need to find out what it is called and post it here, tire shops use it to clean old tires, unfortunately the guy I got it from, his shop burned down, last week, so will have to wait for him to rebuild to get more. 

[SIGNGUY]

She cleaned up very well, wow..
nothing wrong with that patina... I like it..
Great Job!