Hey fellas, a few weeks ago I decided that what my man cave needs next is a vintage Coca Cola machine. After an extensive internet-based crash course in the subject, I've hit a wall. I want something on the smaller side, which led me to mostly pre-60's models. I'm down in central Alabama, and simply put, there's not a lot of options around here. I expanded the search towards Atlanta, lower Tennessee, and some parts of Mississippi with little luck. What I did find is often either drastically overpriced, or isn't functional. The shipping options/fees on eBay have killed any options I found there (as someone here kindly pointed out in another thread).
I'm not in this for looks: I can handle wear and tear, although I'm trying to avoid more than a little rust if I can. I just want it to get cold, and not weigh so much that I can't move it safely without help. Dry is much preferred. I had a WD-12 locally I thought was going to be the one, but it ended up not cooling, and the guy wouldn't come off his price enough for me to justify buying it and sending the compressor off to Eric (the compressor would click/pop, run for a few seconds, make a click/pop and shut back off, sometimes click/pop without starting, repeat).
Anyway, I'm in the market for a machine. I've seen a variety of types that would work: the Vendo 23, WD-5 or 12, Ideal 35 or 55b, Glasco GBV-50, or VMC 27 would probably fit best.
The VMC 27B or 33 might be an option, although I don't have a good feel for weight distribution. Top heavy stuff isn't ideal. I've also taken a gander at the Cavalier FD-2, but don't have a good feel on price.
I'm definitely still new to this, so please feel free to share any thoughts, wisdom, or general insults.
