2 replies to this topic

[Carogan]

Boys and girls!

I would like to say that this forum is a fantastic idea, and the information that everyone gives is absolutely invaluable to anyone getting into this biz (and I'm assuming for anyone still in it as well!). I'm happy to be a part of this community and will do my best to contribute when I think I have something worth sharing!

I have a question about beverage vending machines that I'm hoping you can help me with.

Does anyone have any experience with a VendoCo Model V-Max 840 (machine built in the mid-90s)? There are two models available for sale that I'm looking at.

This is what the seller has told me so far:

- Machine is listed and recommended for outdoor use.
- Parts and manual is still available on VenoCo website at www.vendoco.com
- Machine has 10 rows with a capacity of 80 cans per row (total 800 cans) or 36 20 oz. plastic bottles or 32 16 oz. glass bottles.
- 1 machine has a lock mechanism with no lock tumbler and the other has a lock tumbler with no keys.
- The manufacturer does not stock locks as they are standard, can be rekeyed at a local locksmith or purchased online (Ebay.ca has locks available starting at 6.99 and Craigslist also lists locks of varying costs).

He has two of these machines and he's asking $950 each.

1. Are these good machines?

2. Do you have a checklist of things I should be testing when I go out and check it out?

3. I noticed that the seller has told me that it can do cans, 20oz bottles, and 16 oz bottles (I know not to do glass bottles). Can these be adjusted so that I can sell energy drinks, etc. that are larger cans as well?

Thanks for all your help. I'm really excited about exploring this venture!

Rob

[dogcow]

1 . yes

2. make sure it cools (have them plug it in beforehand) make sure the mech and validator work ( this will require some nickels in the mech and some product in the machine ) . make sure all the motors are working either by using the motor test function (if it has a control board) or by actuating the switches manually on the motors. If you put nickels in the mech but you still get "use exact change" try hitting the interlock switch on the door to reset

3. if it does 20oz then most likely,yes

[H4UV]

You can do most any size bottles, but you have to make sure that the shim settings and configurations are set up correctly. The V-Max is a good machine, just do as dogcow says as far as testing goes before you buy. I'd have the people plug the machine in the day before you come out to look at it. Better chance of making sure the compressor is cycling properly. Also, carefully check the motors, they would be the most likely component to have a problem on that machine. $950 is a good price, significantly less then what they usually go for. The lock would be the least of your worries. Those things are available for next nothing EVERYWHERE. Go on ebay and buy from any of the 100 different ads for vending machine plug/tubular locks. They'll work in the machine.