Primarily Petroliana Shop Talk Forums Shop Talk Petroliana Forums General Petroliana Discussion New Member- Just acquired a Tokheim Model 870 A

I love the passion!

Terry, thanks for the support. Jack, you hit the nail on the head... bringing something back to the condition that it was intended to be, is a fulfilling thing. My theory has always been that if it's original and operational, leave it alone. Celebrate it's scars! They each have a story. But if it's been modified, painted and messed with already, might as well bring it back to it's glory days.

Another thing that fascinates me: I've been told by a few gas pump collectors that it's best to gut the machine so that it's easier to transport. This seems to me to be the opposite of what a purist would want to do. Is this the general consensus here? I think that would be a shame. Since mine is complete, I am considering going through it and making it operational. Maybe put it on a small stand with a tank under it and a filler neck sticking up. I could demonstrate/display it by pumping water.... maybe with a hint of yellow food coloring to look like fuel. I just think it would be neat to see this operational, restored unit and the site glass filling with water, see the clock-dial spin and hear the DING of the bell after every gallon. Call me weird.... but THAT would be a more fulfilling scenario for me than a battered, non-original deteriorated pump.

A few thoughts:
1. Since you are new, you might think it through before starting on such a nice pump in great condition. Once its done, there is no going back.
2. You might rethink the water thing. These pumps were for petroleum that self lubricates and prevents rust. Yes, it will pump, but not for long without damage.
3. Clinton is yanking your chain! As 983Jeremy stated, he doesn't want anything not original.
4. IMO, the pump probably won't be worth much more to many people after you have restored it.
5. I have some over-restored pumps. Some restored, and many unrestored. I enjoy all of them for what they are, but the further I go, the more I appreciate the originals.
6. Its your pump. Do what you like!

Imagine what the Ancient Egyptians would say about us wanting to Mummify these pumps w/ the Guts intact? LOL
They did save the Guts AFTER they removed from body!

Dick LOL!! Where do you come up with these analogies!!

RESTORE IT. It is NOT original the way it is now. It has been customized. Bring it back to the way it was when it left the factory or its first paint job. Not a brush job by some kid or a cheap gas station owner. Make it look like the original designer intended and make him proud. By not restoring it , you leave a lot of history buried under the paint. A number of previously unknown decals of little known companies have been found during a restoration. Most of all, do what YOU want.

Nah, don't worry about posting pictures. If they throw tomatoes, make salsa. You're in California! Besides, once you show how nice the pump turns out, they'll show you some love.

David,
Take into consideration that a lot of guys in Midwest, North, South & East of Calif don't find RUST FREE Complete pumps that are easy to restore w/o replacing most if not all the sheet metal & small parts!

My $.02 is that it would be a crying shame to strip and restore. I love it the way it is. If it were mine I would re-wire, put a globe, hose, etc. on it and enjoy. I have several pumps that I used to think I wanted to restore. I am so glad now that I did not make that mistake. Great pump! One of my favorites and hope to own one some day.
Mike

...well, we're not allowed to tell you if it looks horrible, either...