Just made the leap to ownership, Lots of Questions

[Ben]

I just made the leap to ownership this week and am realizing that I know a lot less about this than I thought. The 2 weeks training that came with the sale isn't worth the paper it was printed on so any help would be appreciated.

Some questions:
1) Where can I get the training to repair my machines? Any good books or manufacturer training programs?

2) I have found that there were a lot of hidden problems that I didn't see. They aren't major, thank God, just lots of minor things. I am going to have to do a bit more remodeling and re-organizing than I had expected. Any good ideas to save money?

3) Most of my machines could use a facelift, any recommendation on appliance paint and technique?

4) What's the best polish/ cleaner for stainless steal? I bought some stuff from Lowe's today, but it is pretty expensive.

5) Is there a good place to purchase soap for vending ? I looked at a few of the vendor's that were advertised in the Journal and once I added in the shipping and handling it was cheaper to pay the $50/case that my local supplier is asking.

Any suggestions would be much appreciated. I know that I have to spend money to make money. I have an attendent now that is really good and we have a small, but loyal group of bundling service customers. I want to expand, advertise, and promote once we are done with the remodeling. I joined CLA and the resources that they are providing are worth their weight in gold. I just wanted to get the opinions and input of some of the experienced owners. Please feel free to email me if you would like.

Thanks for listening and responding,
Ben
bstanley@1scom.net

[Howard]

Check your mail

[Duane]

Ben,

1 = Check with your local distributor for your current equipment you have. They usually have a open house or class that you can attend to get some of the basic training needed to work on your equipment.

2 = There will always be something to do. Do as much remodeling as needed. Don't just slap some paint up, do it right.

3 = Before putting money into old machines, make sure they are worth the rebuild. Depending on their previous maint you may be better off with new more efficient equipment. Sometimes old equipment that has been painted looks like old equipment that has been painted.

4 = Stainless Steel - WD-40. If it is really bad, try some aluminum cleaner from NAPA. It has some acid in it and it does a good job, make sure you follow the directions and do one full panel at a time. Once clean, WD-40 works good on a daily basis.

5 = Search online, check The Journal. I buy mine through my distributor since there isn't any shipping charges.

Duane.

www.LMARIES.com (http://www.LMARIES.com)

[RWSmith]

1. Manufacturers have classes at their factory a couple times a year. Most repairman will let you watch while they fix your equipment.
2. Coin laundries are a work in progress. I have one store that was built in 1955 and I am still tinkering with it.
3. There are painters that will paint your equipment at night. Ask some storeowners or your distributor.
4. Mineral oil will also work on your SS.
5. I buy my chemicals from a laundry/ drycleaning supply house. They can also help you WDF supplies.
Good Luck