Loading an old Coke Machine

[theredfro]

I'm taking an old (1950's or 1960's?) Coca Cola machine off someone's hands this Saturday.  It's about an hour drive and I've got one helper and a pickup truck.  I'm just wondering if that's enough muscle, or do I need to find another person?  Any tips for a noob?

The only machine I've moved before was a Dixie Narco from the 80's (I think) and it was heavy as sin.  Hoping the older ones are lighter.  All suggestions welcomed.

Josh

[cola62]

you should be fine with two of you.  Just make sure to have a ramp to get it on the truck and a hand truck.

[Slider-Bob]

And a hydraulic lift built on the pickup truck.  Just kidding.

2 people can move almost any machine, except the one that took 3 people to move (a SPACARB) with Pat P. last weekend for Brian.

[theredfro]

My plan was to lean the machine against the back of the truck and then lift it in so it lays flat on its back.  Is that doable?  Not sure I can get ramps.  I know we've got access to a furniture dolly, and a 4 wheel dolly.

Thanks,
Josh

[jholmgren]

My plan was to lean the machine against the back of the truck and then lift it in so it lays flat on its back.  Is that doable?  Not sure I can get ramps.  I know we've got access to a furniture dolly, and a 4 wheel dolly.

Thanks,
Josh

That should work fine - I would bring some blankets to ease the act of sliding it into the bed of the truck.    Don't forget to let it sit upright for 24 hours before plugging it in.

Jim

[collecture]

Some guys here use pieces of PVC pipe to roll the machine into the truck.
I've handled most 50's & 60's machines by myself, so you should be fine with two guys.

[Eric]

Any idea of model... round top / square top?... I would think 2 guys could do the job.... And don't forget to post pictures when you get it home!
Good Luck!

[johnieG]

That should work fine - I would bring some blankets to ease the act of sliding it into the bed of the truck.    Don't forget to let it sit upright for 24 hours before plugging it in.

Jim

Yep. I use wooden dowel rods to roll it into the bed of my pic-em-up truck & also a ratchet-strap to keep it from sliding side to side when you are making those 90-degree/70 MPH turns...

[buzz4041]

Cardboard under the blanket will let it slide nicely in the bed. Just be sure to tie it off or wedge it to keep it in place.

[MaineT]

To get one in the back of my jeep I have found a piece of plywood between the machine and the surface works good. Since the machine is not always perfectly flat, it doesn't always slide well but the plywood does and it pivots better then the machine itself when you are lifting it.