Check Out: Soda-Machines.Com
My wife and I collect a variety of things with Soda Advertising being the largest of things we’ve compiled. I had taken a liking to Coca-Cola Machines after we had bought our first machine,aVendo-39 , approximately 9 years ago. It was during the process of restoring this machine that I had realized the bug had bit me. Anybody that collects seriously understands the term, "Bitten by the Bug"; that is, you become addicted to your quest to acquire as much as possible for enlarging or bettering your Collection ! As time went on, I had developed a reputation in the restorations of Coca-Cola, Pepsi, 7-UP, Royal Crown and other soda pop machines. Shortly after the purchase of our first Coke Machine, I acquired a 1950’s Gasoline Pump that I also restored. The Gas Pumps have also followed the same popularity as the Coke machines. The rest is history - Vintage Restorations was born!
I’m an advocate of Quality over Quantity ! My restorations are very comprehensive and meticulously finished. This philosophy applies to everything I restore whether it be Coke Machines, Gas Pumps, Air Towers, or Various Other related collectibles such as Telephone booths, Pedal cars, Mailboxes, Barber poles, Jukebox speakers and wallboxes, along with other gas station collectibles. If you have something needing a 'Top Quality Restoration' that I can deliver, contact me by E-Mail. There are various places throughout this Site to send E-Mail.
What is a Restoration?
The definition of a "Restoration" can vary greatly from one person to the next! I assure you that a nice paint job should not be confused with the term "Restoration"; however, many people have been led to believe in this philosophy. The finish paint is an important part of this process but not the only one! I have seen many machines that people say were restored but don't really even come close to a well done Restoration!
Vintage Restorations believes that to acquire quality results; steps need to be taken to assure the best possible results:
- Complete disassembly of all major parts
- All parts for paint, chrome or zinc plating shall be sand blasted or glass beaded
- All parts being a sample of door latches, locking bars, vending drums, shelves, brackets, vending mechanisms etc.
- All parts for paint need to be prepared properly for primer and paint
- Replace any missing or unusable parts with good re-usable originals or quality reproductions
- Aquire all decals that are needed for completion and apply in correct locations.
- Take time and care in re-assembly as not to scratch or damage any part
- Adjust and lubricate any parts that require adjustment or lubricating
- Double check all re-wiring and make sure things are "GROUNDED"
- Once completed, make sure everything is operating correctly
- Maintain the interior restoration as well as the exterior such as cleaning, waxing, checking condensate jar, clean condensing coil etc.
This list is not all inclusive but just for illustration to show people where areas can be lacking in a Restoration Project. To give you a better understanding, there are a few "Before & After" photos you can browse through! So enjoy!
In addition,
here are some photos of Soda Pop Machines and Gas Pumps:
This is a small sampling; I hope to add more soon !
Go To Frames Version
Disregard this if you are in FRAMES already!
Designed and Constructed by Jim Beschen ... Last Revision on 9/96
Any Suggestions or Information Contact :
Webmaster at : beschen@icanect.net
