Vendo 144

Hello All, I'm new to the group but this seems to be a knowledgeable bunch so here goes. An acquaintance of mine has a Vendo 144 which he's selling for US$250. I believe it was manufactured in 1958 and it appears to be the 144MD with three selections. It has no major dents/dings and I am told that it works fine. The machine has been outside but under a large awning and appears to have been fairly well protected from the elements. There's a fair amount of *light rust on the exterior but nothing too severe. I'm hoping someone can provide some insight on a few issues I have before making a purchase. 1. I have read that the size of this machine makes it somewhat less desirable than smaller models. Why? 2. The machine accepts quarters: this, to me,  suggests a modification to the original coin mech. How damaging to the overall value is this? 3. Is this model worth restoring and if so about how much does this typically cost. 4. The price seems very fair. Is it? Is this price typical of this model? Any information would be greatly appreciated. I'd hate to let a good deal go.

[johnieG]

Well..1;Bigger isn't always better because of the fact that you'll at one point or another will have to move the machine! & two, most people don't have a lot room for a big machine, & prefer to own a small one as it's easier to stock, although a 144 md isn't that wide it is a tall & heavy machine which makes it a bugger to get down to the basment/rec-room (opps my age is showing we don't call 'em that anymore do we   ) 2;the coin mech won't effect the resale as many earlier vendors were updated with newer coin mechs buy Coke & other venders to update the machines as pricing went up from 5 then 10 to 15 cents a bottle, 3; this machine (which I happen to like personally) looks great restored, the plastic parts, like the selector buttons can be a bugger to find in good used shape (so don't bust 'em!) as to how much a restoration will cost that depends on if you're doing a full blown, inside outside , strip it to bare metal type,rechrome all the bezelz,etc.  or a lighter repaint cosmetic repaint. 4; for $250 I don't think you'd go wrong, these machines are nice (&  BIG) as they will vend three flavors, they are an embossed round-cornered 50's style & 10 years from now you'll wish[/U] you could buy one this affordable! I say go for it! :'>  & if not throw it my way if he's close to the Detroit/Flint area!  '> just Please don't call me to help you move it!  

Thanks very much for the info. I did get the machine and yes, I believe  moving it will be a job. I took a closer look and noticed the model no. is 144 B. The seller also included a coca-cola rack and several wooden crates in decent shape, so I feel pretty good about it. '>

just another pic...

[Jim]

Congrads on your purchase!

Looks like a pretty solid machine. Good luck with it!