Is this machine worth buying?

[Andy Jones]

Found this on my local CL.... I'm really tempted. What make / model is it, and is it worth the $$ / effort?

http://buffalo.craigslist.org/atq/4980851355.html

[ld26]

Think that is a Cornelius slider, don't know much about them, sure someone else will chime in, but if you like it go take a look and see if you can get a deal you can't pass up, good luck

[Andy Jones]

I like this one, too....

http://chautauqua.craigslist.org/clt/4973311324.html

and here's one maybe someone else out there may like - it's out of MY price range.....

http://chautauqua.craigslist.org/clt/4973311324.html

[Kilroy]

missing the rack and coin mech.  Always liked the light bar on the Cornelius. Dpoeends on how much you like it

[Andy Jones]

I like it...I like it because it's different than the ones you usually see restored.  How difficult and expensive will something like that be to find parts for, being it's not one of the "classic" machines everybody and their brother is making repro parts for ? (or ARE they?) Even to keep it for myself,  at some point the thought of resale has to come into play, and spending a grand or two for something that will never be worth more than $500 - $600 just isn't smart , being my pockets aren't that deep....

[jholmgren]

It's a Cornelius Compact 50 slider - 1970's vintage.  Looks to be missing the rack and coin mech. 

I had 2 of these in better condition and I ended up giving them away for free on Craigslist.  You can't really 'restore' that inside tub, it is like a plastic/fiberglass covered metal and all those bubbles you see are rust from inside.   

I would really caution you to look elsewhere.  My advice would be to find yourself a Glasco or Ideal slider if you really like sliders.

Just my .02

Jim

[MoonDawg]

     I second Jim's advice!

[Eric]

Pass on these two... better machines out there just keep looking... One (or ten) will show up!

[BrianS]

Pass on the Cornelius.  You will see them all the time for that price.  Jim is right, you can't really restore the inner tub once it starts rusting like that.  The first machine I bought was a Corny similar to the one in your photo.  Took it home and ended up ripping it into pieces trying to figure out how it went together.  Was a good learning experience and I kept a few spare parts most of which I have given away to others who needed them.  Only difference was I bought mine for $35 and it was complete so I wasn't really out anything.  They don't have much collectable value but seem to be good reliable machines if you can find one in good condition.

[BeaYoung]

Take your time! Decide what you want first ... there are still plently of the machines out there!