The Aussie Pinball Arcade
Aussie Pinball Forums => Restorations => Topic started by: Strangeways on April 10, 2011, 11:15:03 PM
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At long last, I'm going to start the restoration of one of my "all time" favorite games - Bally Fathom. This machine is quite rare in Australia, and most that I've seen have worn playfields or bakglasses with significant paint loss. Thanks to CPR, Playfields and Backglasses are readily available. This machine needs neither.
This game is one of three Fathoms I own, and is easily the best. It was recently shopped by the previous owner prior to me buying it. It was purchased from Europe in my container in 2009. Although it is shopped, it is not up to my standards, so it will be restored - but it won't need too much work. As you can see from the pictures, I could easily leave it "as is". But there are a few things I don't like and I will address them during the process.
Condition Report
Playfield - 8/10. It is in REALLY nice condition with no major wear spots. I'd say that it was operated for a few years and then the operator applied mylar. It is too thick to be contact. The mylar is in great shape, so I'm not going to risk removing it. Ball swirl is evident in the pale blue areas. I might change my mind as I progress, but if I'm unsure, I won't remove it. There are a few broken plastics, but I have spares. Pop bumper caps are broken and the white "123" Drop Targets are worn. All will be replaced. For an original playfield, it is really nice.
Backglass - 10/10 - Perfect. Not more I can say !
Cabinet - 8/10 - no fade, no scratches and hardly any issues that I need to deal with. I think that the backglass surround has been repainted - an exact color match and very hard to spot. The coin door has had some strange hack jobs. The "coin eject" button has the coin switch wired to it, so you press the button to get credits. Wires are floating around, so I will need to address that.
Electronics - 10/10 - Boards are clean, no acid damage on the CPU board as a remote battery holder was installed.
Overall, the game is in excellent condition, and I've been playing it (and Viking) for most of today. Viking is next in the Queue !
Here's some pictures of the game "as is" !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20008.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20007.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20005.JPG)
Playfield is very colorful and in great condition
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20006.JPG)
Backglass is in a league of its own *%* %.%
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20004.JPG)
The first step is to write down what parts it needs, and if I don't have have those parts already then I will order them.
$#$
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Very nice Nino, look forward to seeing it gleaming!
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Thats a nice machine, Nino.
I cant imagine it being more perfect than it is, but being owned by Aussie pinballs resident "perfectionist" then anythings possible I suppose %.%.
I have never seen let alone played a Fathom, but I would definately buy one on the strength of the artwork alone, It really is visually stunning and is definately now on the "wishlist".
Be great to see how it turns out.
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Very nice looking machine.
I really love the art, I can see why it's a popular title.
I want one of those backglasses. Very cool :D
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Been looking forward to this one mate!!
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Great looking game already Nino. Love that backglass ^^^
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The colours in this game are pretty full on, especially in the backglass. As you describe Nino, this being a fairly rare game, you would have to be stoked to have received it with the /10 numbers you have given it for the BG, cab, and electronics. No question the side of the cab gets your attention.
Also interesting is the bonus - a blue bonus and green bonus. I can't recall ever seeing a pin with a dual bonus system - cool!
In-line targets - always a great feature, and two of these banks on this one (and like the way they did one of these at the very top of the PF).
Overall, the game is in excellent condition, and I've been playing it (and Viking) for most of today. Viking is next in the Queue !
Viking - #.# #.#
What are those female pseudo-mermaids doing to that poor chap anyway? Or maybe I shouldn't ask!
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Looking forward to this. That backglass is stunning. Would be good to squeeze one of these games between my Viking and Paragon, but don't like my chances of finding one.
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Beautiful machine, love the artwork, looking forward to the resto mate ^^^
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Be watching with interest,but she looks good all ready.
Backglass looks very good.
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Very excited about this one Nino seen one in your shed the first time and have been hanging out for the restore.
She is in good condition that's for sure be even better once you weave your magic
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Looking forward to seeing this.
That is one excellent example that you have there.
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Looking forward to this restore Nino.
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gotta be the best art work game out,don't own one ,but at night they are the most beautiful blue eye catching game out and are great to play. Nino , what a game to own.
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Fathom is the "full package" and I'm lucky that I have the opportunity to restore this classic.
Not that much to speak of in terms of an update, but I stripped the playfield to access the overall condition. I'm REALLY pleased with it. Mylar removal is simply "out of the question". Too risky, and the clown that installed it didn't clean the playfield properly before laying it down. Not to worry, I will polish the mylar with the tresurecove kit and the shine will detract from any issues. The only problem is the aqua blue color (mid playfield) - it has ball swirl and the camera angle and flash really highlight it. So it had a lot of play prior to the mylar, but it has been preserved and is the best original playfield I've seen for a while. It will still look awesome !
Here's the top section. There is ALWAYS wear around the lane guides. Not this playfield.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20011.JPG)
Ball swirl under the mermaid - on the left side of the playfield.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20012.JPG)
Lower section is really nice. I have not even cleaned this playfield and I see great potential !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20013.JPG)
^^^
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Looks like a great PF, shame it wasn't cleaned before the mylar, but at least it has protected the artwork over the years
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Whilst removing the playfield parts, I noticed that the mylar is too thin to be mylar. It is contact - what was used in the "old days" prior to mylar. It is also VERY thin, and the adhesive is VERY poor, leaving whole section loose. This tempted me ! So I tried a small section under a plastic (not seen), and it peeled off with ease. The contact is an inferior product with almost no adhesion. I think the low adhesion and the fact that it was laid down with the dust and dirt has worked in my favor. Here's the "test" section ;
Lower playfield
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20014.JPG)
Upper playfield
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20015.JPG)
It is basically falling off, an the underside (adhesive side) of the contact is so poor, that if I handed a section to you, you would not know which side of the contact was MEANT to have the adhesion ! It was almost "floating contact". So I removed it - it 10 minutes !
Here's what I'm left with - and I can now IMPROVE this playfield.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20016.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20017.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20018.JPG)
This has enabled me to look into the possibility of addressing the ball swirl and improving the playfield. Inserts are all level, so it should be an easy (yet time consuming) job !
$#$
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Thats a real bonus Nino! Are you considering a CC for playfield or wax?
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That was a leaky break, be great to see this waxed or cleared without the contact, those amazing colours will look sensational!
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Thats a real bonus Nino! Are you considering a CC for playfield or wax?
I'm seriously considering a clearcoat. Regular waxing will protect the playfield, but I'm looking at attempting to remove the ball swirl, which will deplete the original varnish to the point where I might be risking paint loss. I'll see how I go.
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Great, that is a huge bonus, will come up a treat now *%*
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After some practice with the airbrush and the clear that I'm using, I am slowly convincing myself to clearcoat this playfield. I've had emcouraging results with the Aces High and Buccanneer and I'm going to clearcoat an old playfield over the easter break for some experience. In the meantime, I've completely stripped the game of every nut and bolt and started to clean and polish varioius parts.
The lower cabinet has to support the heavy playfield (4 Bank targets), so it utilizes the supports used on the Bally EMs. The power supply is also located in the lower cabinet. First thing to do is strip the cabinet. Here's a "before" picture ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20019.JPG)
The section between the head and the lower cabinet needed a new coat of paint. The grill will also be repainted. Sand with 100 Grit, then 240 Grit.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20020.JPG)
Mask off the area and give it a quick respay. The grill is also repainted at the same time ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20021.JPG)
The lower cabinet "underside" was very ugly. There was some corrosion, and this needed to be arrested. I used a wirewheel on my cordless drill and grinded away the corrosion and surface rust. I prepped the area for something "a little bit different"
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20022.JPG)
I use "rust guard hammer finish" for Stern Coin Doors, but I thought it would be GREAT to protect the metal from further corrosion. I only need one pass on this area - so I masked it off and gave it a quick spray. I was pleasantly surprised and I will be using this technique with all future restores !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20023.JPG)
Inside the cabinet is cleaned. The head support looks great !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20025.JPG)
Cabinet is cleaned and I'm thinking of filling in the area (near the tail) and painting over it. Very pleased so far ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20024.JPG)
Very pleased with the progress so far !
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looking good so far Nino.
I had the same issue with Kiss, the metal underneath the front of its cab was very crappy and rusty. I dont know why it never occured to me to use silver hammertone paint on mine after i cleaned it up @.@ I used grey etch primer on the metal instead and left it at that, its looks neat enough as it is (but i neglected to document this step in my resto thread) @.@
looking forward to further updates, following this thread with much interest ^^^
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Nice work so far mate. What do you think the hole in the cabinet near the tail was put in for?
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Nice work so far mate. What do you think the hole in the cabinet near the tail was put in for?
Good Question - and I need to look into this. My Bally "Wizard" and "Ro Go" have exacty the same hole. Must have something to do with the European Export games, or something the local operator did.
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Looks nice Nino and its great seeing a nice machine given the Nino treatment,
Could it be a credit button hole? Never seen it before. !@#
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Nice work so far mate. What do you think the hole in the cabinet near the tail was put in for?
Good Question - and I need to look into this. My Bally "Wizard" and "Ro Go" have exacty the same hole. Must have something to do with the European Export games, or something the local operator did.
Ive seen a machine with a car ash tray (the type you have in the back of a bench seat) was mounted in the side.
Who knows why people do these things???
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nino,how will a clear coat remove the ball swirl?for the younger members can you please explain.plus ballswirl,cracking,planking,shrinkage etc
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nino,how will a clear coat remove the ball swirl?for the younger members can you please explain.plus ballswirl,cracking,planking,shrinkage etc
Clear coat won't remove the ball swirl, I'm afraid ! Hard work with Chux Magic Eraser and alcohol will be the first step. This will take time, and might remove some paint. It should improve the playfield.
Cracking and planking - not much can be done with the natural aging of timber and paint. The artwork is incredibly detailed, there won't be any touch ups. I MIGHT do the white areas with an "off white", or a yellowed white I found in the Jo Sonja range.
The clearcoat that I want to attempt will simply arrest any further playfield wear. It is all about preserving the artwork under the clearcoat. I'm hoping it will freshen up the colors a bit as well. It will be "trial and error", so this restore will hake a fair bit of time as I want to practice on a spare playfield I have picked out.
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thanks nino,i hope mildflame is following this one.still awaiting consignment. :tumble:
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thanks nino,i hope mildflame is following this one.still awaiting consignment. :tumble:
What will come first ? Consignment or Christmas ?
I have a large update on the restore - some great progress ^^^
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Some Cabinet work on this update..
The front door is in good condition. The door skin is straight and will come up looking great.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20026.JPG)
The inside of the door is an absolute mess. The coin eject has a switch installed which is connected to the Coin Chute #1 switch. So this is how you credit up on this game. Ugly. It is also missing many parts, like the coin acceptor housing, and coin switch brackets and switches. Luckily, I have HEAPS of spares, so I picked out the best quality replacements for the rebuild.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20027.JPG)
As with all my restores, all parts are washed, cleaned, polished, buffed or tumbled. If they are missing parts, I replace them. That's the basis of a restoration - to restore to as close to original as possible. Here's the inside of the door. I have not yet wired up the door, but almost everything is rebuilt and original.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20029.JPG)
The door skin was regrained (as per factory). A new lock and coin insert plastics (NOS USA) are installed. The door hinge and frame were regrained. The bolts are buffed, lock down bar assy rebuilt, lock down bar regrained and new beer seal installed. Finally, the ball shooter hardware was buffed and new springs, clip ans washers installed. The legs and legbolts are temporary for now. I'm really pleased with the cleaned and completed front on the game.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20028.JPG)
Inside the cabinet. Basically, I reassembled the sections after everything was cleaned, buffed etc etc ! I will re attach the door switch (disables power when open).
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20030.JPG)
A new power cable and plug are installed. Everything is clean ! Even Ace approves <..>
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20031.JPG)
The boring part is next. All the playfield components are stripped, cleaned, polished etc etc .. Tumbler has had a hard workout over the last week or so !
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WOW neno! looking good, I love polishing parts on doors :lol yea, only problem is putting the door back together :lol
It looks like a brilliant machine! It reminds me of my dads Goldball !@#
I'll need to try and get my hands on one of these oneday...
are you doing a cab paint... If so i'll be watching carefully %$%
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WOW neno! looking good, I love polishing parts on doors :lol yea, only problem is putting the door back together :lol
It looks like a brilliant machine! It reminds me of my dads Goldball !@#
I'll need to try and get my hands on one of these oneday...
are you doing a cab paint... If so i'll be watching carefully %$%
Mitch - no cab repaint on this particular Fathom. I think one of the others needs a repaint, but I need to have another look to be sure. The machine I've earmarked for permanent residence in my gamesroom will have a repaint, repro playfield and repro plastics set.
Door rebuilds - I used to take 100s of pictures and I do refer to them from time to time, but I tend to remember where things go just from memory and experience.
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Hi Nino
I have never seen one before but it looks to be a game that has a bit of everything. I love the in line targets 3 flippers and the side lane reminds me of Trident .the b/g has nice co lours what a fun looking game Your resto is looking very good @@*
Howzat
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WOW neno! looking good, I love polishing parts on doors :lol yea, only problem is putting the door back together :lol
It looks like a brilliant machine! It reminds me of my dads Goldball !@#
I'll need to try and get my hands on one of these oneday...
are you doing a cab paint... If so i'll be watching carefully %$%
Mitch - no cab repaint on this particular Fathom. I think one of the others needs a repaint, but I need to have another look to be sure. The machine I've earmarked for permanent residence in my gamesroom will have a repaint, repro playfield and repro plastics set.
Door rebuilds - I used to take 100s of pictures and I do refer to them from time to time, but I tend to remember where things go just from memory and experience.
It can be a fun puzzle when your trying to work out where things go. ask my dad... I always end up with spare parts :lol :lol :lol ^&^
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Some Cabinet work on this update..
The front door is in good condition. The door skin is straight and will come up looking great.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20026.JPG)
Love the coin door inserts ..... just where exactly do you think this pin came from? I don't recognise this currency.
The door skin was regrained (as per factory). A new lock and coin insert plastics (NOS USA) are installed. The door hinge and frame were regrained. The bolts are buffed, lock down bar assy rebuilt, lock down bar regrained and new beer seal installed. Finally, the ball shooter hardware was buffed and new springs, clip ans washers installed. The legs and legbolts are temporary for now. I'm really pleased with the cleaned and completed front on the game.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20028.JPG)
What a beautiful looking front end to the game! Really nice. Some will ignore the front, but I think it's where the game begins to draw attention. If it's overlooked, probably not a big deal, but IF it's done right - then what a difference and what an eye opener.
Where do you usually source your coin door inserts? I am looking to replace inserts on a few of my pins, and in the midst of searching for a good source. PBR has a few, Marco has lots of variety (but silly shipping cost).
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Steve - The inserts are "extra" original NOS inserts that arrived with the NIB Bally's from the 70's and early 80's. They are all USA inserts. I do have some AUS inserts that I'm keeping for future machines destined for my gamesroom.
Classicplayfields sell the inserts. For some reason I cannot find them on their store. They had a great selection.
PBR have NOS - http://www.pbresource.com/CoinDoor.html
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Got a response back from CPR - they used to sell the inserts, but no more. They pointed me in the direction of Marco, but shipping is of course silly with them. PBR is probably the way to go, I guess.
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Love the coin door inserts ..... just where exactly do you think this pin came from? I don't recognise this currency.
Netherlands, Europe
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutch_guilder (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutch_guilder)
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Great work Nino,
I also like seeing the front bling brought up to scratch,
It's a shame GTB used chrome instead of SS like Bally/Williams,
You can always resurrect SS.
Had a chuckle about the Dutch origin of this machine, the Fathom
theme is quite apt if those dykes ever gave way %.%
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Coin door came up brilliant where did you get all these great projects from Nino??????
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Great work Nino,
I also like seeing the front bling brought up to scratch,
It's a shame GTB used chrome instead of SS like Bally/Williams,
You can always resurrect SS.
Had a chuckle about the Dutch origin of this machine, the Fathom
theme is quite apt if those dykes ever gave way %.%
System one games have stainless steel doors with aluminium frame, these doors were also used on some of their later EM'S.
Not quite sure about sys80's though with the waffle finish doors???
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Was referring to earlier EM games re the stainless steel,
But have noted that my GTB 1977 C37 front door looks same as
Sys 1 and holds a magnet unlike my Williams doors.
Apologies for hijack Nino
Cheers
Dave
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Coin door came up brilliant where did you get all these great projects from Nino??????
Some people collect coins and other expensive cars. I don't carry coins on me and my car is worth $2k tops. I collect pinballs, and I've sourced my machines from overseas. You will find most of the info on my first container here ;
http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?topic=2832.msg43138#msg43138
Thats where this Fathom came from. I had two in this container and my first Fathom was imported earlier (around 2007). My private collection is continually growing, and I still enjoy the hunt for more machines. More will be on their way soon.
Was referring to earlier EM games re the stainless steel,
But have noted that my GTB 1977 C37 front door looks same as
Sys 1 and holds a magnet unlike my Williams doors.
Apologies for hijack Nino
Cheers
Dave
No probs !
The doors that are found on System 1 were initially installed on the EM "Spirit of 76", which coincided with the change from 31 inch chrome legs to 27 inch (1976).
System 80 doors had the cross hatch design on polished stainless steel. I have polished these up using Brasso and a toothbrush.
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Love the coin door inserts ..... just where exactly do you think this pin came from? I don't recognise this currency.
Netherlands, Europe
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutch_guilder (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutch_guilder)
Confirmed! Gulden is dutch for guilder, which used to be the dutch currency before the Euro.
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More cabinet and board work. The power supply board was removed from the machine and rebuilt. One BR had been changed in the past, so I replaced both with new ones. I replaced the diodes and the 25 Ohm 5W resistor which measured out of spec. I replaced the fuses and gave it a good clean.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20033.JPG)
Mounted on the plate and connected to the transformer.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20032.JPG)
Finally installed into the cabinet. Prior to testing, I set the jumpers to 240V and installed a new power cable and plug. I tested the voltages (without load) and they are in within spec. The lower cabinet is basically completely done exept a couple of repairs which will be covered later.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20035.JPG)
The headbox
I previously removed all the wiring, cable manangement and brackets. All the connectors are checked, and none need to be replaced. The entire internals are washed (even the PCB standoffs!). Here's a picture of the empty head cleaned.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20034.JPG)
The front section is also cleaned. I removed the display brackets and clean them properly, screws and hardware are buffed. I'll replace the globes later - I leave the old globes in place to prevent water etc from entering the sockets.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20037.JPG)
So here is where I'm at. The Power supply board and solenoid driver has been rebuilt. The displays, lamp driver, MPU and S&T board are next. All the boards are in EXCELLENT condition, so not much will require total rebuilds.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20036.JPG)
Slow progress, but it is bloody cold in Melbourne !
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Playfield Restoration
The "Fun" bit. I was pleased the mylar or contact was easy to remove, as I can improve this playfield. Yes - it will take A LOT LONGER to clean and reassemble, but I wanted to remove that HORRIBLE ball swirl and clearcoat the playfield. The first step is to total clean the playfield and use Magic Eraser and alcohol. This will take HOURS and I need to be careful because there's a lot of ball swirl marks, and the old clear is thin and chipped around the inserts. So here is the first 8 hours - yes - and I've only done half the playfield. But the patience has results !
Here's a picture without the flash to compare. Left side is untouched, right side has been cleaned and scrubbed with Magic Eraser.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20038.JPG)
Close up - I've cleaned the right side, and you can see the difference already.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20039.JPG)
Top section - again, one half done and the colours are still very clear. If I wipe the area with Novus 2, it really brings out the colors. That's what I'm hoping the clearcoat will do !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20044.JPG)
Here's some snaps with natural light. Still plenty of owrk to be done. Fathom is one of the more difficult restores to do as there are so many parts. The playfield will take at least another week of cleaning.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20045.JPG)
.. and the highlighted section in natural light.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20046.JPG)
My hands ache and my head spins ! Back to the EM !
Anyhow, this will take time, but it will be worth it in the end.
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Yes - it will take A LOT LONGER to clean and reassemble, but I wanted to remove that HORRIBLE ball swirl and clearcoat the playfield. The first step is to total clean the playfield and use Magic Eraser and alcohol. This will take HOURS and I need to be careful because there's a lot of ball swirl marks, and the old clear is thin and chipped around the inserts. So here is the first 8 hours - yes - and I've only done half the playfield. But the patience has results !
Ball swirl is just plain yuck – when it accumulates over the years, it just sucks the vibrant look out of a PF. And it can be an absolute pain in the arse to remove. I have had great results on a few of my machines so far, and you are spot on – it just takes hours to do. And you need to be very careful doing it – in a few places I went too far, and started to remove paint – crap! Always need to remind myself to check the ME every now and then for ANY sign of paint on it. I have found through my (limited so far) experience with ME that you do need to apply a fair amount of pressure, because getting the ball swirl out can take alot of effort.
The results you have attained here just simply speak for themselves – left and right side, amazing. It can be tempting to give up with it after spending so much time on it, but when you get the results, you know it’s worth it! ^^^
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Looks great so far mate, will be a beautiful PF when finished and CC'd
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had a look at this Sunday when at Nino's , this is going to come up very nice by the time the playfield is finished
and the pics don't really do the work Nino's already put in to it justice, who ever ends up with this is going to be a lucky person.
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BIG PLAYFIELD UPDATE
I spent HOURS removing the ball swirl and came very close to removing the paint when I breached the factory varnish (clearcoats were not used THEN as we know it today). It became frustrating as I really wanted the playfield to be as best as I could manage. Even cleaning it with Novus 2 was not good enough.
I originally wanted to attempt the clearcoat process based on the success I had with the clearcoat on the Aces High and Buccaneer. But that was onlt is smaller areas - not an entire playfield. While I toyed with the idea, I did some touch ups around some areas (especially some damage around the diver on the right hand side of the pop bumpers) and I repainted all the inserts.
I spent a lot of time procrastinating !@#
I then approached a friend of mine with a proposal to clearcoat this playfield (professionally), and if it did not work out, then I'll accept the consequences. So I have my playfield touch up work sealed under a clearcoat. What could possibly go wrong ??
Here are the results. I would like to say that the result FAR exceed my expectations, even though the clearcoater dude STILL thought it could be better - I could not be any happier than I am today. Enough dribble, let the pictures do the talking !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20063.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20064.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20065.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20066.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20067.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20068.JPG)
The Ball swirl is ALMOST un-noticeable - the clearcoat is so smooth, it removed the fine edges and added depth to the areas that were affected.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20070.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20078.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20079.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20081.JPG)
This pictures was taken indoors with the flash on ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20083.JPG)
I have to wait 2 weeks for it to cure properly before re assembly.
The clearcoat was "risky", but due to the abilty of the "clearcoater dude", it has been a complete success. A risk well taken, and the results are stunning. The depth of the colors within the artwork are pronounced and the finish is not too glossy - which it what I expected. The playfield is like a sheet of glass.
Now I can finally move forward with this restore !
^^^
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Hi Nino
that turned out really well - it is amazing how the clearcoat can bring the colours back to life ^^^
Now you just have to restrain yourself and let it cure before reassembling!
cheers
Ian
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could i ask what type of paint do you use to clear pf? how do you tell what type of paint is on a playfield? does it very from maker to maker or era? im guessing wrong product like a car and bam it reacts and all bad? because like car acrylics, anamels, and 2pak paints can cause problems.
ive been wondering what paints people use to clear pf's. looks really good when done
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Hi Nino
that turned out really well - it is amazing how the clearcoat can bring the colours back to life ^^^
Now you just have to restrain yourself and let it cure before reassembling!
cheers
Ian
Yes - I'm holding back very well so far - luckily I have heaps to do on the Theater of Magic #@#
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could i ask what type of paint do you use to clear pf? how do you tell what type of paint is on a playfield? does it very from maker to maker or era? im guessing wrong product like a car and bam it reacts and all bad? because like car acrylics, anamels, and 2pak paints can cause problems
Unfortunately, this is not my area of expertise. All I know is that they are automotive clears.
For touch up work, I use Jo-Sonja paints. This seems to work well with automotive clears.
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could i ask what type of paint do you use to clear pf? how do you tell what type of paint is on a playfield? does it very from maker to maker or era? im guessing wrong product like a car and bam it reacts and all bad? because like car acrylics, anamels, and 2pak paints can cause problems
Unfortunately, this is not my area of expertise. All I know is that they are automotive clears.
For touch up work, I use Jo-Sonja paints. This seems to work well with automotive clears.
if thats the case it might more than likely be 2k, so you get these painted by a car painter? is the jo-sonja a 2k paint?
im just wondering if make of machine or age of machine limits wether you can clear with 2k or not, i would have thought older machine would have used anamels, as anamels where used on almost everything in the 60s, which would mean 2pak would be bad news, but i am no pinball expert, so it is something i am interested as if its ok to 2k a playfield, ill be doing some painting, but id want to sure before i do it, lol,
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The playfield looks great, give me a nice original over a repro any day.
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Nino, phenomenal result!!! Of all the restoration images of yours that I've looked at, this would have to be at or near the top. Great result .... looking forward to the rest of it.
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PF looks excellent Nino. ^^^ Certainly an amazing amount of detail in the artwork too.
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WOW! that PF looks amazing mate *%*
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Looks very nice Nino.. Supe rare machine and looks like it is coming together very nicely
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Thanks for the kind words - I'll pass them on to the "clearcoat dude" ^^^
The next part of the process will be to rebuild all the mechanisms. I can fit the ground braid and underside parts now - which is great !
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Thanks for sharing the pics ..... that is an awesome result. Fantastic!
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The Playfield looks beautiful , you've done a fantastic job of cleaning and touching it up , many hours of hard work have really paid off ^^^
The clearcoat really brings out the colours , your friend has done a first class job #*#
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Great result - is it an expensive process?
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Great result - is it an expensive process?
Clearcoating is expensive, but for "Holy Grail" machines like Fathom, its not about the cost. It is an area that I'm happy to pay the experts to weave their magic. The end result is a playfield has been restored and protected so that it cannot deteriorate any further. The game will play fast and with the new plastics set and all the other new parts I have collected for this game, it will be one of the best games in any collection.
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That looks awesome Nino !!
The clear really brings out the colors and detail,
well worth the effort you have put into this PF.
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Great result - is it an expensive process?
Its a lot of work in preparation to clear a playfield....Both sides of the playfield need to be fully stripped, all t-nuts and globe holders removed etc. Probably around 10 hrs for a DMD title, more for an early SS machine. I'm guessing its around 6 to 10 hrs to clear a playfield properly, then once cured around 15 + hours to re-assemble.
I think for games which are absolute keepers or your 'grail' machines, then its worth the investment, if repairs are required on the playfield... I'm looking forward to seeing Nino's Fathom back together when its finished as I reckon it will look and play amazing.
That looks awesome Nino !!
The clear really brings out the colors and detail,
well worth the effort you have put into this PF.
I agree going by the photos it looks great.
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Coming along very nicely Nino, that playfield looks stunning ()
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Looks awesome Nino. ^^^
That clear coat dude always under estimates the quality of his work, but let me tell you he produces some quality shit ! &&
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After 2 weeks of curing time, I started reassembly of the playfield. The first thing to do is to install the ground braid. I bought the ground braid and the staple gun from Pinrestore.com, and it makes playfield swaps so easy ! The first thing to do is mark all the "lines" as I have when I disassembled the playfield. All the numbers correspod to each individual globe holder.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20092.JPG)
Here's the ground braid installed, by simply following the original path
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20093.JPG)
I found an EXACT match of Blue at Bunnings, so I repainted the playfield guides. This is a picture straight after one coat. The quality of paint is the best I've used out of a can.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20088.JPG)
All the parts are tumbled, cleaned or replaced. So all I have to do is start the slow process of installing all the globe holders and hardware. This takes time and patience.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20089.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20090.JPG)
Only one "glamour shot" after 20 hours of work !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20091.JPG)
:D
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I am sure the globe holders you will be using will be more reliable than the typcial (awful) original Bally holders. I spend more time than I care for "fixing" a globe holder with the soldering iron (as per Clay's guide).
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Man great work with te ball swirl removal very frustrating but amazing results.
As for the clearcoat. Your clearcoat dude needs to suck it up and be happy with an awsome result well done mystery man ^^^
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Playfield is coming together nicely. I've used the original bumper bodies, bumper skirts, and lane guides, because replacements are not the right color, and the white lane guides are no longer available. It is a miracle that these are in great original condition. I simply installed the playfield wooden rails and started reassembly. Having loads of fun - here's some progress pictures ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20096.JPG)
My "patented" and trusty playfield stand !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20097.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20098.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20099.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20100.JPG)
Looking good so far - but plenty to go on this one. New drop targets and a NOS plastic set for this game. ^^^
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That looks magic Nino.....
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Looks great so far ^^^ .. Must build myself one of those PF stands ..
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Well some MASSIVE headway over the weekend. Just about all the parts I need have arrived and I was itching to get started on my favorite part of restoration - Replacing the targets ! NOT.. There's four assemblies to rebuild, and two of them have the extra coils to drop the individual targets - so there's a lot to do !
Here are the target assemblies prior to the rebuild ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20104.JPG)
The metal parts needs to be soaked in degreaser, as they were previously lubricated - which is unneccesary. I then wash them with Windex and hot water. Use a grey scotchbrite (from auto shop) to remove any residue. All the drop targets are replaced. I bought the last set from www.rtbb.com.au (http://www.rtbb.com.au), and you can see them in the bottom left hand corner of the next picture. The assembly to the right of the targets is currently being rebuilt.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20120.JPG)
A close up of the targets - and what a huge difference to have new parts installed !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20122.JPG)
The main bank of Drop Targets - Before ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20124.JPG)
After ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20135.JPG)
Looking good !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20123.JPG)
All the target banks fully rebuilt and ready to be installed !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20144.JPG)
Target Banks installed ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20148.JPG)
A "bling" photo taken during the afternoon - look at that clearcoat !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20152.JPG)
Here's an interesting find. This is NOT the Classicplayfields repro playfield plastics - but a set Greg at RTBB found a couple of years ago and kept for me (as he knew I LOVED Fathom) - I had this plastics set before I owned the game !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20156.JPG)
I'll install these tomorrow - or when I get time early in the week.
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Hey Nino - you are a perfectionist! I have to admit while I like my machines to look good, under the playfield there is a lot of ''out of sight, out of mind'' in my thinking (as long as it all works 100%).
Your dedication to detail really sets your restores of the old classics as the 'gold standard' we can all aspire to @@*
cheers
Ian
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Looks fantastic Nino..a beautiful machine. I've never seen a Fathom before but after seeing this thread its one I'd look at buying one day
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That's one sexy looking game Nino those target mechs look so good. Can't wait to see it in the flesh
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Looks awesome Nino well done I've never played this title or even seen one gee they must be rare in Australia?
Peter
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NICE ()
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Had the pleasure of seeing this game in the flesh on Saturday. Everything looks fantastic, from the posts, nuts, assemblies to the brilliant playfield. Will be a highly sought after machine when completed.
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How good does that look @@*,what a great restore,you have to be proud of the job you have done.This is in my top 3 of all SS games ever made and i would love to own one.
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Thats looks beautiful Nino, excellent work mate. ^^^
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Looks awesome Nino well done I've never played this title or even seen one gee they must be rare in Australia?
Peter
Yes Peter, they are rare. Took me years to find one, and then I sourced another two in a container I brought in. There would not be many in Australia, but I do know there are a couple hidden in private collections. They NEVER change hands. I should know, I contacted nearly all the registered owners in Australia. Not one of them would let one go. A dealer bought in a couple a few years back, and sold them for a very high price. I did see photos of one of them, and it was in good condition.
Had the pleasure of seeing this game in the flesh on Saturday. Everything looks fantastic, from the posts, nuts, assemblies to the brilliant playfield. Will be a highly sought after machine when completed.
Already sold this Fathom. An astute collector has already paid for the machine and has commissioned a few more games from the same era. So there will be some more games documented and restored. Should be ready for a test drive this weekend, Marty - if you are in the area %$%
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Impressive work and patience Nino. I take my hat off to you.
Someone is getting a great resto and will end up with an immaculate machine. ^^^ ^^^
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Huge Mega Update !
Firstly - the Cabinet work. Earlier on, I mentioned a gaping hole is present on the right hand side of the cabinet. There is also some damage to the rear section where the leg is mounted. I want to repair these areas - knowing it will take time, but I had to have the defects repaired.
I've already plugged up the hole, sanded it flat and ready to apply the primer / undercoat
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20179.JPG)
The rear section bogged and ready to sand and apply the primer ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20180.JPG)
Primer applied
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20186.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20182.JPG)
The dark blue is a close match, but ended up being too deep and dark after it dried. It was the same paint that I used for the playfield wood guides. I'd say the cabinet WAS this color originally, but it has faded since.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20183.JPG)
The light blue / green area was matched with the Jo Sonja paints I used for playfield restoration. I ended up masking the area with frisket, and then airbrushing the color. I then remove the mask and it is done !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20184.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20185.JPG)
I then had to touch up the Blue area and lighten it slightly. After waiting for the paint to dry, I deliberately scratched the painted areas with a dental pick to match the reast of the "wear" on the cabinet. I had to do this so that it blended in better. Finally, I sprayed on some Carbothane clearcoat, which is a satin finish which is an absolutely perfect match for the "aged" cabinet. So here are the results !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20174.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20177.JPG)
An improvement on the damaged cabinet ^^^
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Playfield Update
The playfield is almost done. I need to repaint the spinner and apply a new decal. The lane guides (white) are not original, so I ordered a set from Greg which are a perfect replacement. I've been testing the game, and I've VERY pleased with the way it plays. Here's some "sneak peek" pictures while I was testing the game ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20160.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20162.JPG)
Here's the Spinner that needs to be repainted ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20168.JPG)
Decal has arrived.
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Good one Nino would never have thought of just masking and repairin the one section like that.
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Awesome, looks really great!
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Looking great Nino, and coming along nicely ..... almost there!
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Looking great Nino, and coming along nicely ..... almost there!
On the home stretch ! I'm fiddling around with the spinner repaint and clearcoat. When the decal is applied, I will finish the game off with a new set of legs.
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The spinner has been painted a color close to the original, then clearcoated 3 times. I apply the decal and it looks NEW !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20191.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20193.JPG)
It might seem a small detail, but a new spinner can really complete the game. I'm not entirely happy with the result, as I applied the decal too high and the clear AND paint have already started to chip - which really is really annoying. Lucky I bought spares !
I've also installed the factory lane guides from RTBB. The game had NOS Bally white stamped lane guides which is a bonus as I could use them on another game.
Here are some pictures of the completed playfield. New plastics set, Bumper bodies, caps, targets and post caps. No expense spared. The Clearcoat has held up VERY well. The pictures don't do the game justice. I will take some final pictures over the weekend (during the day). But here's the playfield with the flash on the camera..
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20187.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20190.JPG)
The game plays 100% and is going through final testing.
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WOW, that looks amazing #*#
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SWEET dude ^^^ ^^^ ^^^ I've been following this thread pretty closely, good too see the final outcome.
looks great.. WELL DONE @@* @@* @@*
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Excellent work Nino. Hope the new owner enjoys the game and appreciates all the hard work.
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As usual another brilliant restore well done
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Excellent work Nino. Hope the new owner enjoys the game and appreciates all the hard work.
The new owner has not seen the game as yet - only photos from last year. Gladly, it remains "in the family" and part of a desirable collection.
I'll take some photos (during the day) of the finished game. Thanks all for the kind words ^^^
You are welcome to drop by for a game or two before I deliver it ()
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You are welcome to drop by for a game or two before I deliver it ()
I only wish ..... haven't been to Melbourne for years, but knowing the collection of games you have stashed, I would probably "camp" at your place for a while.
That apron is primo .... is it original, or decal? If that's original, then that is awesome for the paint to have come up that good after all these years. Any chance the new owner is a member here??? Never played this beast, but it looks to be a very, very good player.
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You are welcome to drop by for a game or two before I deliver it ()
I only wish ..... haven't been to Melbourne for years, but knowing the collection of games you have stashed, I would probably "camp" at your place for a while.
That apron is primo .... is it original, or decal? If that's original, then that is awesome for the paint to have come up that good after all these years. Any chance the new owner is a member here??? Never played this beast, but it looks to be a very, very good player.
Apron is 100% original. I simply cleaned and polished it. Very lucky to have found this particular Fathom.
New owner is not a member - he is a private collector (no time for forum). There was an "expression of interest" from several members, but the collector had first option and committed to it early on. I will have another Fathom in the restore queue that will be on the market, but that won't be for a year or two. Then there is the third Fathom which is my keeper game. This will have a repro playfield and will never leave my gamesroom.
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Beautiful work as usual mate ^^^
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That playfield looks amazing ^%^
But now for a nooby question.
What is the best approach for a playfield restoration, remove mylar, remove and replace mylar, or clearcoating? The clearcoating looks fantastic - but is it a long term restoration option or just a preference?
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That playfield looks amazing ^%^
But now for a nooby question.
What is the best approach for a playfield restoration, remove mylar, remove and replace mylar, or clearcoating? The clearcoating looks fantastic - but is it a long term restoration option or just a preference?
Each playfield should be evaluated in isolation. The "best approach" would be the condition you are comfortable with. If the game has mylar, and it is in good condition, then it can be left alone. If it is dull, shrinking or lifting, then look at removing it. Games of this era didn't have factory mylar, but the operator installed Contact (used to cover school books). It was in good condition, but it lifted very easily. The decision to clearcoat the playfield became apparent when I looked at the amount of the original clear that was being removed as I cleaned the ball swirl marks. There was no way the playfield could not be protected. I was initially going to clear it myself, but I thought I'd leave that to a professional, who did an impeccable job for me.
In this case, the clearcoat was a necessity. Given the game is rare and collectible, I wanted to finish it as original as possible and that meant investing more time and effort in a clearcoat.
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Beautiful work we can all aspire to,
Id never seen a Fathom before fantastic looking machine!
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WOW ^&^. That looks so so so so so so so so so so so so so good Nino if any game needs a wet look playfield it's definitely fathom really looks like the mermaids are underwater.
Well done might have to look at adding a fathom to my collection ^^^
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Great work Nino, fantastic looking game.
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I did take some pictures with my old camera and they turned out poorly, so I've been fiddling with my new iPhone and the camera is really good - but I've had to muck around with settings etc etc..
The FINAL step for this machine was to install new legs (from PBR). Something interesting to note with PBR legs is that you CANNOT fit the original leg bolts. I like all my machines to have the original parts where possible, but the PBR legs have their legbolt holes TOO BIG in diameter. So the original bolts (14mm) don't fit, they cut into the holes and it just looks stupid. So I've installed the 16 mm legbolts commonly fitted to Gottliebs. I wanted to finish this game with PBR legs, and it just looks amazing.
I had a FRUSTRATING time troubleshooting a problem that I was suspecting was the switch matrix, but I could not narrow it down. The problem only happened when the second drop target (from the left hand bank) was dropped and you hit the rebound switch behind the target bank and you would score that value (500) AND the value of the left hand rollovers (1000). Indeed, it was the switch matrix, and I snipped the switch capacitors from the row and columns until I found the culprit - the topmost rollover had a faulty capacitor. I ended up replacing all of them and now the game is reliable.
I also removed the "Homepin" MPU board from the Viking, and placed it in this game.
The game is 100% working and is an absolute blast to play. It will be delivered to its new owner next weekend. I'm very pleased with the amount of work on this game and the results it has given me. There is no doubt, that FATHOM is one of the best machines ever made.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20196.JPG)
The next pics are taken with my iPhone - so I'm not sure if they are going to look great or not !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20210.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20206.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/Fathom/fathom%20208.JPG)
Thanks for following this thread and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did !
:D
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Awesome job .... and a great thread to show the progress. Sure wish it was finishing up at my place! Excellent work! #*#
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Awesome job .... and a great thread to show the progress. Sure wish it was finishing up at my place! Excellent work! #*#
Likewise.
I have never had the pleasure of playing a working Fathom, let alone a superbly restored one like this.
Ah well . . . maybe one fine day !!!
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Awesome job mate, beautiful machine ^^^
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New owner will be stoked! Another Nino quality job ^^^
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A pleasure following this one, Nino. Fathoms would have to be quite a rare title ..... I have never seen one listed on eBay, and this is the first mentioning of it I have seen. Well done. ^^^