cutdown B3

["John Wraga" <johnw@ilx.com>]

  I've been monitoring the list for a few months now, and thought it is 
  time to add my story.  My questions should be common for others in the 
  market for that classic organ.
   
  I purchased what I believe was a B-3/C-3 (could it have been an A-100?) 
  and Leslie about 15 years ago.  This organ was "cutdown" by parties 
  unknown, which means it is in a really horrible raw plywood case, and 
  sits on some sort of wheeled cart.  No pedals, just volume. The Leslie 
  ( 2 speed) is painted flat black, except where the wood is missing.  (I 
  know it sounds bad, but I was young, impulsive, I HAD to have one! 
     
  I had some work done on it after I bought it.  I can't find the receipt to 
  see exactly what was done.  A new 15" speaker.  Some tubes.  A jack that 
  allowed me to plug an external amp into the organ to "overdrive" the 
  Leslie.  Sounded great for Tarkus, but I wonder what the consequences might 
  be to the drivers.  I can remember some times when it sounded like the 
  whole rig was gonna blow up.  My taste runs more towards jazz now.
    
  The questions are:
     
  The organ hasn't been started in 5-10 years.  Its been in my parents 
  finished basement.  What precautions might be wise b4 starting it up 
  again.  Oil, cleaning, spider removal etc.?
     
  The FAQ mentions folks who sell replacement parts for organ cases, is 
  a whole B-3 style case available?  Am I better off with a new cutdown 
  case?  How about plans for a case?  I know a cabinet maker.
     
  Where do I find identifying numbers to figure out what model the 
  organ and speaker system were/are?  I'd like to buy service 
  manuals for the right models.
     
  I am not into electronics, but am interested in knowing how the whole 
  thing works in a general way.  I can use a soldering iron, but I 
  don't think this is the place to start learning.  I'd like to see 
  this organ restored, and I've got the rest of my life to do it.
     
  Or do I try to sell it and look for another more "complete" one?  
     
  Thanks for your time and any input you may have.  Thanks Mark, for 
  the list.
     
  johnw@ilx.com