compressor runs for 30 sec only

[johnieG]

http://www.vendingworks.net/refrigeration.html
These are the replacement decks I mentioned

While the cost looks attractive, do be aware that these "Certified-Refurbished " (whatever that means) decks are in fact used units,  removed from out of service late model machines.  I'd ask them to tell me there "refurbishing" process & I'd hope it involves more that a quick hose-down & slapping it in a shipping box and kicking it out the door. 

Here's what "Refurbish" means to me, both fan motors replaced, a brazed in line service valve installed into the system & the system leak checked, recharged & cycle checked for proper system pressures, a current draw on the compressor, and a new thermostat installed & if needed a new grounded wire harness ( not a wire-nutted extension cord spliced onto the machine)

These decks can be give extended life to a machine in your situation and budget needs, just be aware of what you are buying. And I'm sure they will honer their warranty, you will still be responsible for shipping it both ways.  (oh & sometimes the price may also require a rebuildable core.)

[ANTIQUE CASTLE]

Where can I get a compressor? What is a reasonable price?
I am going to use a local guy to do the work.
I have two machines that need compressors so far.

[globalcompressors]

if you're using a local tech, he can get the compressor for you.

just curious, what do you consider... 'reasonable' ?

[ANTIQUE CASTLE]

"Reasonable" is cost+repair/replacement+sell vs "dump it for a meager profit".
I would imagine a reasonable price for a compressor is $100+.
I have a talent for finding things at true wholesale.
People in the Smokies will pay more than most,as long as they do not have to fix.
Electrical/mechanical logic/repair comes easy for me,but refrigeration is not one of my talents.
I do not look for or pay for "illegal/slave labor" "deals",but I have investment/time/profit demands.

[globalcompressors]

"Reasonable" is cost+repair/replacement+sell vs "dump it for a meager profit".
I would imagine a reasonable price for a compressor is $100+.
I have a talent for finding things at true wholesale.
People in the Smokies will pay more than most,as long as they do not have to fix.
Electrical/mechanical logic/repair comes easy for me,but refrigeration is not one of my talents.
I do not look for or pay for "illegal/slave labor" "deals",but I have investment/time/profit demands.

.... well, I'm NOT going to be your Guy.

Hey Johnie G, this fella' has investment, time, and profit demands, but doesn't pay for illegal 'slave labor'... maybe you can help him out!
HAHAHAHA!!!  

[MoonDawg]

if you're using a local tech, he can get the compressor for you.

               Best advice yet. He will advise you which compressor will fit best.

               Remember he is also considering how to mount the new unit into your deck because now the holes will be in different places as well as the ports.

              He buys wholesale and will probably charge close to what you would pay online including shipping.
If not, you could still buy the new unit for him but you really should get his OK first.

[Slapshot42]

I just spent $215.00 on all of the assessory parts which had nothing to do with the actual compressor itself.

You may find it very hard to get anyone at at the price you are willing to pay.  I paid $100 just o ship a compressor a few months ago.

months ago. 

This is not a cheap hobby, sometimes you will be lucky to break even on a machine!

[SIGNGUY]

TO get it done right , and fit correctly in your vintage machine , use the guys on this forum who know what they are doing..

johnnie G and Eric from Global know their stuff when it comes to Vintage machines.. and from what I've seen and experienced personally they are the best.

[ANTIQUE CASTLE]

I do not understand your "humor".
These machines are only parts to me.
If I have to invest too much money,it has to go.
I just adjust the price.
Shipping is not a cost factor,just a necessity.
What do you consider reasonable to replace a compressor?

[jholmgren]

I do not understand your "humor".
These machines are only parts to me.
If I have to invest too much money,it has to go.
I just adjust the price.
Shipping is not a cost factor,just a necessity.
What do you consider reasonable to replace a compressor?

Most of the folks on this board are hobbyists/collectors, so your comment that "These machines are only parts to me." is not likely to get you many favorable replies. 

There are a few that do provide commercial services to the collectors here (Eric, Johnnie, etc) and they have already chimed in with their opinions, but the vast majority of us on this board are not in the business of buying/selling machines for a living.

To try to answer your basic question, in my experience a reasonable price to replace a whole cooling deck is somewhere in the $1,000 range.

If you want it done well and "proper" you can take your chances locally with someone who may or may not do it right, or you can reach out to someone like Johnnie or Eric and work with them offline to get a better idea of what they can offer you.

Jim