How do you maintain a pinball machine?

Pinball Maintenance: Keeping Your Pinball Machine Running…

1. Always Clean Your Pinball Machine. Regular cleaning will keep your pinball machine sparkly, shiny, and smooth.
2. Clean and Replace Balls.
3. Tighten Screws, Replace Bulbs.
4. Never Fix The Machine Yourself.
5. Always Inspect After Moving.

Do pinball machines require a lot of maintenance?

Regular cleaning and basic upkeep are usually pretty simple, but repairing things that go wrong with the game can get pretty complicated and might require professional assistance.

Are pinball machines expensive to maintain?

When there are problems with the circuit board, pinball machine repair gets quite expensive. Therefore, not only is the initial purchase price high for a pinball machine, the cost will stay high when things need to be fixed.

Should you wax a new pinball machine?

Besides looking better, cleaning and waxing prevents wear and tear on the playfield surface and protects the painted artwork. While you have the glass off the pinball machine, also take time to clean off the plastic parts with Novus. Rubbers can be cleaned up with a mild citrus cleaner.

Is buying a pinball machine worth it?

If you choose the right pinball machine and keep it in excellent shape, owning a pinball machine can be a legitimate way to get something that keeps its value or even goes up in value. If you buy a used pinball machine it is much more likely to keep its value than buying a new machine at full retail price.

Why is pinball illegal?

Pinball was banned beginning in the early 1940s until 1976 in New York City. New York mayor Fiorello La Guardia was responsible for the ban, believing that it robbed school children of their hard earned nickels and dimes. La Guardia spearheaded major raids throughout the city, collecting thousands of machines.

Are pinball machines a good investment?

Are pinball machines a good investment? Yes, if you don’t overpay for them. They increase in value but not very fast. If you overpay for a machine and then try to sell it after a few months, don’t expect to recoup your initial outlay.

How do you clean the inside of a pinball machine?

If your pinball machine isn’t very dirty, a product like windex is usually good enough. Spray some cleaner on a cloth and start wiping everything you can reach. Remember not to spray the cleaner on your machine; always spray on the towel.

How much should I pay for a pinball machine?

Depending on whether you want a new pinball machine or an old one, the price is going to vary. For the old school machines, you are looking at a price range between $200 and $500. For a new machine, it will cost you between $4,500-$6,000.

Why are pinball machines illegal?

What is the best way to clean a pinball machine?

A shop vacuum with a bristle tip can help clean out any tight areas that need some cleaning. Many companies do this after they test the machine to be sent out to the customer. Most cleaning products will work on any pinball machine, so you don’t have to worry too much about what you should and shouldn’t use.

How do you protect a pinball machine from a cabinet?

Make sure you use some foam, heavy cardboard, or blankets to protect the headbox from rubbing on the cabinet. Foam is best, as it will also help keep the back glass in place. Pinball Machine legs are held in place by eight bolts. They will be either 5/8 inch or 9/16 inch heads.

How do I open the back of a pinball machine?

For Data East, Sega, and Stern Modern pinballs, there is a turnable latch system located at the back of the headbox. Using the supplied key, turn the latch 90° counter-clockwise. For Williams, Bally, and Gottlieb, you can easily unlatch the back box at the back of the machine. This is a simple setup and requires no tools.

How do I remove the back glass from a pinball ball?

Foam is best, as it will help keep the back glass in place. For early Solid State Pinballs, you will need to remove the back glass. There is a lock located on the headbox in one of three locations: the left-hand side at the top, right-hand side at the top or on top of the headbox in the center.