I'll fix 'em up well enough to make the decks work again, and maybe clean them up a bit..., but that's about it. If the deck requires more than belts or some other simple fix, I'll pay a tech here to get it up and running again instead. Gotta keep those techs employeed so they have incentive to keep doing what they do....
I really admire the likes of our Hemiguy, Superduper and a few other esteemed members with that level of patience and skill. Maybe, as time goes on, I'll eventually get there... but in the meantime I gotta carefully pick the battles I wish to fight..., if you know what I mean?
The one exception I have in my own collection that contradicts the above comments would be my GE box, which I prepped, masked and had painted along with my '85 Benz so that they would match. Plus, that particular GE's layout made it a relatively easy task from a cosmetic perspective. But, to be completely honest, that box isn't working right now and is more for show than anything else. I think I may not have hooked the speakers up properly when I put it back together. Can't get it to make a sound.
In general, my goal is to buy boxes in good enough shape to where I don't feel the need to go full tilt into a restoration project. My family life and other hobbies (DJ'ing, photography and golf) keep me spread too thin.
Oh, and did you notice I didn't mention any model numbers or brands (nor has anyone else)??? While I respect everyone's own thoughts on what they consider a holy grail boomer, it's really my own opinion that matters (to me) as to what boxes are must-have units for my limited collection. You'll never hear me call someone out because I disagree with their choice of a grail or restoration project.... Just like musical tastes, that's subjective to each individual and we all have our own reasons for liking what we like and seeking what we seek.
