fran604g wrote:
Very exciting, and I like your philosophy in leaving it original using just enough love to bring out its beauty without destroying its history.
Best,
Fran
Thank you for the comments and encouragement. I know that the machine could look a lot better with fresh paint, plating, finish and decals, but I am trying to preserve what I have. I respect any opinions regarding whether or not I should go for a full restoration or keep it a survivor, (as I said already, I am trying for minimal). The horn still has the remnants of surface rust and plenty of character flaws, (Flitz polish helped to blend the rust a bit). The Brass bell is hand polished using Bar Keepers polish, and Flitz, (and lots of elbow grease). The ID plate says “M” and the serial number is 21385, so I am thinking that this is probably a 1903 machine. The cabinet still needs some more cleaning, oiling and waxing and the motor needs to be serviced.