Platinum_2

Yeah, I put some time into the restoration as I determined it was a good candidate for restoration in that it was complete and runs very well.  I sanded the machine and used my HVLP sprayer to layer on 3 coats of implement paint with hardener.  I finished it off with 2 coats of clear coat with hardner.  I was getting tired towards the end of the project and as a result, there are a few blemishes here and there, but no doubt this looks better than probably most any 1974 machine.  It is literally in "like-new" conditon both asthetically and mechanically.  I put new tires on it along with rubber vibration insulating grips.  The warning decals seen on the bucket and chute are original.  All other decals were custom made on vinyl using UV resistant inks and dyes.  Engine has been fully tuned and all bearings, fittings, etc. have been inspected and lubed.  Usually starts with 2nd or 3rd pull.  I fabricated a custom red-iron scaper bar that is 1/4" think with beveled edge.  I just have to put on the shoes which are of the polypropylene type.  On a scale from 1 to 10, I would rate this restoration an 8.5.

The pictures above are of my 1974 Jacobsen Imperial 830.  As you can see, it has been fully restored and modernized.

I'm pretty sure a friction disc would be easy to come by.  There was a Ford variant and I believe a John Deere variant of this machine.  My local JD dealer may be able to get his hands on some parts.  He still has parts for my old JD snowmobile.  It's amazing what these dealers sometimes have on their shelves from years past!  I would certainly not throw her away.  It is fully restored, new paint, tires, etc.  A commercial snow contractor would probably give $500 for it knowing that he could not find anything as heavy duty on the market today in brand-new condition, maybe even more. For me, the machine is a bit of overkill.  I like the 30" bucket, but I bet the thing weighs over 300lbs.  It can be a bear to muscle it around during the winter months.  For this reason alone, sometimes I wish I had something a little lighter.  But, I only have about $200 into it and it is now mint and needs nothing.  Hard to justify replacing it.

Thanks for the replies guys!  I think I'll keep her.  I'll upload some pics so you can see just how perfect she is.  The gearbox is rock solid.  The only part I could imagine needing might be a friction disc or chute rotration gear...an obsolete part from what I understand.  As of now, she needs nothing.