Restoring Antique Slot Machines
There are a number of books out there available to the slot machine collector, and they all have something different to offer. I’ve already discussed some of the reference books that are useful for identifying the make and model of an antique slot, but now that we’ve identified our “21″ Bell, we’re more interested in books that will help us with the mechanics of the machine itself. Two of the aforementioned books are useful in this regard as well.
First and foremost, a copy of Owners Pictorial Guide for the Care and Understanding of the Mills Bell Slot Machine is pretty much required. It’s a good book with plenty of pictures and a good explanation of the operating mechanism and some of the additional features that some of the Mills machines incorporated over the years.
Restoring Antique Slot Machines Jackpots
Next, Slot Machines of Yesteryear: Operator’s Companion -Mills of the Forties is also good to have on hand, particularly for its parts diagrams and lists of Mills part numbers.
Restoring Antique Slot Machines For Sale
Original Mills literature comes up for sale from time to time, and there are other books available, but the two books mentioned above are a good place to start.
If you encounter parts that are bent inside of an antique slot machine, your first instinct may be to straighten them out immediately. This isn't always a good idea. Bending was a common and accepted adjustment in most antique slot machines. Until you are certain that a bend is causing you problems, you should probably leave it alone. The slot machines we restore are restored the right way to the customer specifications, the first time. When a customer purchases a slot machine from me, I offer lifetime guarantee, as long as you own the slot machine, providing you bring it to me for repairs.
Also, there is a set of videos available from Dave at Ibuyoldslots.com. This series of DVDs has a wealth of information and is well worth the money. Even though the production values are not Hollywood quality, the content is still invaluable to anyone wanting to do a complete disassembly and reassembly of a vintage slot machine. I wish I’d had it twenty years ago.