Thanks for bringing back a memory.  In 1976 I had just opened up my
first official shop for organ repairs.  I had been repairing electronic
stuff including organs for over 11 years at the time, and was 24 years
old in 1976.

One day a guy brought in a Sideman for repair.  I had never seen one,
but had heard about all the furor at the Musicians Union these and
other drum machines (AND synthesizers & Mellotrons, etc.).  The owner
played mostly Western (read "Cowboy") music as a single.  He drank more
whiskey than anyone I had ever met before or since -- all day every
day.  He was, however, a peach of a guy and had lots of playing jobs.
When he brought in the Sideman he said, "The go**am Johnny Cash Rhythm
don't work!"

Curious, I took the cover off.  It had been through WW4 or something,
but it sort of looked like a pinball machine stepper motor and I figured
I could fix it.  Four hours later it was working like new.  The drive
wheel was completely worn out so I rubber cemented a thick, wide rubber
band on it so it would drive.  I also told him to find a new drink
holder, as the Sideman didn't like Whiskey & Coke.

Amazingly enough this repair worked for 12 years.  We cleaned it
again and replaced a tube, and it worked for him 'till he died in 1997.
I really don't think they had to embalm him! (Ha ha!)

Thanks for jogging my memory.  Whenever I think of this guy I get
a little giggle...

Scott Olson
Missoula     Montana