It seems about once every three months someone asks about modernizing an old EM. I'm sure to many it seems like a really interesting and fun project. To a true EM guy we cringe when someone enthusiastically posts about considering it. Once in your possession it is yours to do with as you like. Just don't expect overwhelming support.

Like you say though making a completely different game based on one you've acquired. Without destroying the original.... seems to be something that we could all admire.

There was a guy that made one sourced from a conglomerate of parts machines. Mismatched head and no motor board. He did a nice job making something that was never going to be a complete game again anyway. It was pretty cool.