The Aussie Pinball Arcade

Aussie Pinball Forums => Restorations => Topic started by: Strangeways on December 22, 2009, 03:26:25 PM

Title: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 22, 2009, 03:26:25 PM

Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration

Next machine in line is a Bally Creature From the Black Lagoon. Another game that really just needs a recondition, but I'm sure I'll be spending more time than just 20-30 hours. This won't be done to the level of John Wart Jr's fine restoration, but it will be a respectable machine nonetheless.


Condition

Cabinet - 8/10 No fade or damage other than where the legs have folded the decals. Not seen when the legs are installed. The lower cabinet panel needs to be fixed where the transformer is located. The shroud for the globe and around the playfield window are missing and the speaker has been broken.

Playfield - 8/10 A layer of dirt covers the playfield. The "Snack Hole" has wear around it which needs to be addressed. Several broken plastics and the "Bowl" ramp has a break in it's support. The incorrect posts have been used in placed (red and transparent). Sounds a lot worse than it is !

Electronics - 8/10 Looks to be in good condition. One GI IDC connector is toast.

Creature Feature - Works and is Green. The mirror is broken and has been repaired previously.


Before Pictures


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL002_resize.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL004_resize.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL021_resize.jpg)


Playfield Strip


Straightforward playield strip "procedure". Take pictures of everything and if you are not sure - Use the caliper in the photos as highlighted on the Pinbot Resto thread. Everything is removed


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL115_resize.jpg)


Clean with Nifti and a rag. This is another machine that I'm using the Treasurecove polish kit on. From now on - All my games will be polished with this kit. Took me around 30 minutes to make this playfield look like it was clearcoated;


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL139_resize.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL142_resize.jpg)


Each mechanism is removed, one by one, and cleaned by hand. If it needs polishing, then the part is either buffed on the bench grinder with a buffing wheel, or thrown in the tumbler. All upper playfield parts that fit in the tumbler are washed first, dried and then placed in the tumbler. Here we have the ramp diverter. The RED container has water and 6-7 squirts of windex, and the GREEN is just water. MartyJ gave me some red and grey scotchbrites which I'm testing and finding to be A LOT better than the Green Scotchbrite. I use the RED scotchbrite first, then the Grey Scotchbrite for a nice shiney finish.

(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL152_resize.jpg)


Reassembled mechanism - with new coil sleeve ;


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL153_resize.jpg)


Here's a really good picture of the polished playfield and rebuilt slingshot assembly ;


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL157_resize.jpg)

 <.> <.>
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on December 22, 2009, 05:37:46 PM
Nice Nino !  ^^^

To the lucky new owner, they scored themselves a 'hot pink' version of the playfield ! %$%  *)*

I plan on getting me a TC kit in the new year... Playfield come up awesome...
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on December 22, 2009, 05:40:58 PM
It does look good Nino im just waiting on a postage price on a Treasure Cove Kit....
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: madness on December 22, 2009, 05:43:38 PM
Put teal bumper caps and rings and fit flashers to them.Looks the goods and an easy mod since you got the playfield stripped.
Treasure Cove Kit is the goods.Does a fantastic job and real easy,quick.
CFTBL, mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm #*#
Wish i had mine back &^&
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: indazone gav on December 22, 2009, 05:44:36 PM
Creech is such a beautiful machine and when restored is nothing short of outstanding, I'll watch this thread with great intrest ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Extra Ball on December 22, 2009, 07:08:03 PM
I wont say anything nice because it goes without saying the high standard Nino achieves.
I want to own this pin someday, love the soundtrack, love the theme, and love the gameplay.

How good does that pinbot look  %$%
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: RaptorLawyer on December 22, 2009, 09:02:18 PM
Indeed, a most promising start to another quality restore im sure Nino.

Will be following with great interest sir
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Supremicus on December 22, 2009, 11:13:32 PM
Eager to see how this one and john's turn out, it's another title i wouldn't mind owning one day.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on December 23, 2009, 12:41:18 AM
I have a grey scotchbrite pad that I picked up and am looking forward to trying :) The current restoration is all polished, so it'll just have to wait til the next :)

Your results are definitely promising though. That TC polishing kit rocks!
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 23, 2009, 08:48:40 AM
Put teal bumper caps and rings and fit flashers to them.Looks the goods and an easy mod since you got the playfield stripped.
Treasure Cove Kit is the goods.Does a fantastic job and real easy,quick.
CFTBL, mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm #*#
Wish i had mine back &^&

That's the plan - Teal caps and lane guides  ^^^

I wont say anything nice because it goes without saying the high standard Nino achieves.
I want to own this pin someday, love the soundtrack, love the theme, and love the gameplay.

How good does that pinbot look  %$%

CFTBL is an awesome machine, much better than some titles that command more $$.

Pinbot is waiting on a new display and some flasher resistors that are not in stock at GPE. Plays VERY well !

I have a grey scotchbrite pad that I picked up and am looking forward to trying :) The current restoration is all polished, so it'll just have to wait til the next :)

Your results are definitely promising though. That TC polishing kit rocks!

Yep - Don't know how I did without it ! Can't wait to try ot on EMs etc. Big thanks to MartyJ who borrowed his kit for me to test  ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: bwodie on December 23, 2009, 10:11:06 AM
looks like its going to come up REAL good!
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: v8racefan on December 23, 2009, 10:48:41 PM
Great resto nino, I have this title and will be watching this resto with great interest. Keep up the great work. #*#

Can someone here explain the "hot pink" playfield version?? is this a rare limited playfield run? !@#

Cheers

Leon
aka v8racefan
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 23, 2009, 10:52:23 PM

After gloating over the playfield for a while - it was time to clean up all the plastics parts, wash the metal parts and place them in the tumbler, and regrain the metal ball guides. I used MartyJ's pads - they are simply awesome and I now use the Green for stubborn dirt and serious regraining, the red next and a final regrain with the grey pads. It leaves the "authentic grained" look. I use Windex with the pads. They grey pads REALLY bring out a shine on polished metal as well - but I'm still experimenting.

As with all the work I do - ALL mechanisms are stripped, cleaned, broken parts replaced and coil sleeves replaced. The owner wants some non factory colored parts installed, and it will look great. Some pictures (don't worry about the Snack Bar outhole - it will be fixed later);

(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL159_resize.jpg)

(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL160_resize.jpg)


New flipper kits installed - bushings checked for cracks - reassembled ;

(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL161_resize.jpg)


Creature playfield window

So the playfield window is a little dull, and it would be difficult to polish it installed. So I screwed it onto a plank of wood and fixed that to the vice. Used the same technique as the playfield for polishing - but I kept an "eye on it" as I went along ;


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL164_resize.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL165_resize.jpg)


I installed the playfield window. The flash on the camera really brought out the imperfections. I found they were my fingermarks from the reverse side of the window.


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL179_resize.jpg)


A better picture and more hardware installed ;


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL180_resize.jpg)


More pictures


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL184_resize.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL185_resize.jpg)


 <.> <.>
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on December 23, 2009, 10:56:48 PM
It been said before Nino but you really do a Top Job on your games and i love those Blue bumper caps ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: v8racefan on December 23, 2009, 10:58:08 PM
where did you get the blue/teal bumper caps from????
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 23, 2009, 11:01:08 PM
where did you get the blue/teal bumper caps from????

The owner bought them from one of our sponsors - I believe they were from RTTB. I usually replace with originals, bit this machine will have slight changes to the factory.

It been said before Nino but you really do a Top Job on your games and i love those Blue bumper caps ^^^

You too mate - When are you going to start yours ?
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on December 23, 2009, 11:02:49 PM
where did you get the blue/teal bumper caps from????

The owner bought them from one of our sponsors - I believe they were from RTTB. I usually replace with originals, bit this machine will have slight changes to the factory.

It been said before Nino but you really do a Top Job on your games and i love those Blue bumper caps ^^^

You too mate - When are you going to start yours ?

Not for a few weeks yet Nino ill elt heath play it for a bit first.        Was thinking of stripping down Strikes and Spares first but ill see what happens
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on December 24, 2009, 12:39:34 AM
Ummm why is there black rubber installed ?  !@#
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on December 24, 2009, 08:03:32 AM
How does the playfield window look to the naked eye? I see some swirls etc in the photos, but the digi cam always brings the worst in parts out.

I'm torn between trying to refurbish what I have, or buy new.

Black rubber? The horrors!

Looks real nice. I hope to start on my playfield in the next week!

Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 24, 2009, 09:01:47 AM
Ummm why is there black rubber installed ?  !@#

The owner's request. I prefer white, but black looks kinda nice !

How does the playfield window look to the naked eye? I see some swirls etc in the photos, but the digi cam always brings the worst in parts out.

I'm torn between trying to refurbish what I have, or buy new.

Black rubber? The horrors!

Looks real nice. I hope to start on my playfield in the next week!



Playfield looks like a thin clearcoat has been applied that shines in the sunlight. I'm REALLY pleased with it. The playfield window is probably the "best" it is going to look. The dullness was removed with the polishing, but you can still see small marks in it with the naked eye. Do you mean "swirl marks" in the playfield window, or playfield ? I can check for you.

Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on December 24, 2009, 09:55:57 AM
I meant in the window.

I keep resisting spending $100 on a new window for this game, but as nice as the rest of it is gonna be, it's a shame to reuse the original. I'm torn.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on December 24, 2009, 10:16:32 AM
I thought it was not your choice Nino !  *.*

Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: slammer on December 24, 2009, 11:39:45 AM
Nino,

Try some Plexus, perspex polishing compound, I think I bought some from Autobarn last time.(around $20)

I used this on the Caddilac restoration a while back to remove the marks on the speedo cluster area.

It worked a treat!

Cheers Angelo

Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: v8racefan on December 24, 2009, 12:44:46 PM
is there NO such thing as a HOT PINK Playfield??? !@#
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Daring33 on December 24, 2009, 02:20:03 PM
@v8racefan - Some of the factory playfields were done in the hot pick variety and some came with a dull pink, I'm not sure of the order or how rare the hot pink ones are but I know that lots of guys comment on the fact so it must have been a smaller run.

Nino,
The Blue caps with the black skirts look interesting, I converted mine to all teal, all posts lane guides caps etc, I really liked the look after I was finished.  What are you doing with the Bumpers?  Adding flashers or just GI?  I just tied it into the GI and it really made a difference in that back corner.  Thanks for the heads up on using Windex too, I used to use Novus for everything but it dries out quickly and costs alot!  Regraining with the windex is great.

@John - Get a new window mate, you won't regret it, After all of your hard work everytime you look down on the field that will be the first thing you look at, I tried everything to get mine to shine but nothing compares to a nice new clear window.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on December 24, 2009, 05:03:42 PM
More than one company made playfields for WMS. Even though they used pantone colors, they didn't always match 100% from manufacturer to manufacturer.

You can compare 2 Creature playfields, side by side, here:

(http://pinballben.com/cftbl/restore/083.jpg)

The 'hot pink' ones in this case were screened by Sun Process (noted by a SP by the part # under the apron), and the regular pink ones were screened by Lenc Smith, noted by LS under the apron by the part #.

There's a lot of good reading here, discussing different companies screening playfields etc.

http://www.flippers.be/pinball_playfields.html
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on December 24, 2009, 08:10:52 PM
Thank you John for saving me time to clarify that !   ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: v8racefan on December 26, 2009, 10:35:15 AM
Thanks everyone for expalining the Hot pink playfield question  ^^^ ^^^

It appears my Creature has the hot pink version, thanks again for the clarification.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on December 27, 2009, 03:25:05 AM
generally, if it has a diamondplate logo, it's hot pink.

the protos have DP logo and aren't hot pink, but the regular production games with DP logos are all hot pink.

PFR here in the states was making the most awesome custom CFTBL playfields, they would take the regular pink ones, then airbrush the pink 'hotter' pink than the hot pink ones, along with doing neon greens, yellows, etc too.



Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: shansta on December 27, 2009, 10:18:18 AM
Nino,
Try some Plexus, perspex polishing compound, I think I bought some from Autobarn last time.(around $20)

I used this on the Caddilac restoration a while back to remove the marks on the speedo cluster area.

It worked a treat!

Cheers Angelo

+1

The best. Warm the plastic up first (in hot water) - makes it easier to cut back. (Logically!)

Anybody stuck one of these (playfield windows) in a dishwasher? I wonder if it would clear up like ramps do?
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 27, 2009, 11:17:24 PM

Cabinet

Plenty of dust and broken/missing parts. The mirror was broken and an attempt to fix it was made at one stage, but it was a poor effort. The black "Shroud" over the lamp was broken and missing, so was the black shroud around the creature window. All this needed to be addressed.

Here's the cabinet "before" picture


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL123_resize.jpg)


All the parts were cleaned - the Lockdown bar was stripped and cleaned with scotchbrite pads - Green, Red then Gray. Gave it a really good shine in the end. All the wires were cleaned. I will need to buy a new speaker, as the old one was broken. A new grill has been installed.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL171_resize.jpg)


The Door was straight, but it needed a repaint. Everything else will be cleaned, polished etc.. The bolts for the security bar will be primed and then painted black. I used a better quality paint for this door, and it was a Satin Black, rather than Flat Black.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL124_resize.jpg)


I used Mr Sheen to really bring out the "Black" on the artwork. Legs will be chrome, not the factory Grey - at the onwer's request, and I personally think it looks a lot better.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL200_resize.jpg)


The Mirror


Was broken.. The plan is simply to glue and re inforce the broken piece, reverse the mirror so that I can drill two new holes and it will work as designed.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL173_resize.jpg)


Glued with two new holes, ready to be remounted - not the prettiest picture, but it will work properly.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL197_resize.jpg)


Lamp Cover


This is all that is left of the original shroud / cover


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL174_resize.jpg)


Plan is simple - use some black cardboard, cut it into shape, fold it and mount it on the base. Too easy - but it took time.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL175_resize.jpg)


After installing the missing / broken pieces, it looks very good. I'll just have to test it later on..


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL204_resize.jpg)


Finally, I made the backing that is missing from the creature window. I've never seen one on a machine, so I just guessed the dimensions and cut out a piece of black cardboard. This took a while, but I think I got it right.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL203_resize.jpg)


Installed. Finally the hologram itself is installed.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL205_resize.jpg)


Outhole Repair


This will be my first attempt at outhole repair with a new product I bought from RTBB - "quickwood". This stuff is SO EASY to use, and it sets ROCK HARD. Love this stuff.

Here's what I'm looking at ;


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL189_resize.jpg)


I took these photos after I completed the repair, as the hardware is installed around the outhole. Basically, I used 800 Grit and a small block to level the repair, finishing with 1000 Grit and later a clean with Novus 2. The Cliffy will be installed last.

Here's a picture of the underside.


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL193_resize.jpg)


Finished repair - just need to install the Cliffy


(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL194_resize.jpg)


 && &&
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: shansta on December 27, 2009, 11:42:30 PM
Looks sexy Nino! (No surprises there!)

Whats with the 2 warning stickers under the playfield? (Achtung Baby!) Is the one underneath in English?

And gee that mirror is in a real good spot to get cleaned up isn't it? Does it flip up or something or is it fixed in that position?

Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 27, 2009, 11:56:25 PM
Looks sexy Nino! (No surprises there!)

Whats with the 2 warning stickers under the playfield? (Achtung Baby!) Is the one underneath in English?

And gee that mirror is in a real good spot to get cleaned up isn't it? Does it flip up or something or is it fixed in that position?



The mirror is mounted on an assembly with a motor that moves left and right. This reflects into the hologram which creates the illusion of movement. I'd say some clumsy tech dropped something on it at one stage !
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on December 28, 2009, 04:36:58 AM
They are commonly broken. 1 of my 2 creatures had a broken mirror, and they are available as replacements here in the US.

That's a German export machine, hence the German warning decals, German coin door and cashbox assy, lack of US convenience outlet etc.

The CPU was probably jumpered for German operation too (W18 removed on the CPU)

Making nice progress! That hole was pretty bad, reminded me of my first creature.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: shansta on December 28, 2009, 09:39:34 AM
They are commonly broken. 1 of my 2 creatures had a broken mirror, and they are available as replacements here in the US.

That's a German export machine, hence the German warning decals, German coin door and cashbox assy, lack of US convenience outlet etc.

The CPU was probably jumpered for German operation too (W18 removed on the CPU)

Making nice progress! That hole was pretty bad, reminded me of my first creature.

I can see why the mirror gets cleaned up... That's where I put my multimeter usually!  :lol

The label thing - it just looks funny how the German label is stuck on top of another (English?) label...

That putty looks like the biz! I use "knead it" at work - no good for us, the ball would shatter it!
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: RaptorLawyer on December 28, 2009, 12:32:39 PM
Hey Nino.

Door looks fantastic, may i ask what paint you used for it?

Cheers,
Steve
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ktm450 on December 28, 2009, 12:47:48 PM
Looking great Nino  ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: EricPinball on December 29, 2009, 06:24:56 AM
Nice job  ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: carbonROD on December 30, 2009, 06:51:46 PM
I never thought I'd prefer black rubber over white, but I think on a Creature it might make sense...it's meant to be a Drive Inn at night. GREAT RESTO. And great move on the Teal caps.  ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 30, 2009, 07:08:30 PM
Hey Nino.

Door looks fantastic, may i ask what paint you used for it?

Cheers,
Steve

White Knight - SATIN Black.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: RaptorLawyer on December 30, 2009, 07:37:32 PM
^^ Thanks mate
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on December 30, 2009, 07:50:37 PM
Owners not going to be happy when its time to change the black rubber EARLY because of all the fine black rubber particles floating around everywhere !  !*!  :lol  *)*
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Wotto on December 30, 2009, 08:29:35 PM
Hoy - lay off the Black rubber jokes mate  %%$ %%$

I happen to think it looks quite OK for starters #@#
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on December 31, 2009, 12:28:05 AM
Hoy - lay off the Black rubber jokes mate  %%$ %%$

I happen to think it looks quite OK for starters #@#

 :lol  :lol  :lol
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 31, 2009, 09:58:07 AM

Black rubbers suit this game, as previously mentioned. It still plays FAST and is a joy to play !

Currently working on the boards and then some final testing.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Gordo on January 02, 2010, 05:55:08 PM
This looks so good, I'm going to strip my CFTBL and clean it up. Where do I get the treasure Cove polish kit? It looks great.

Gordo.......
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on January 02, 2010, 06:53:08 PM
Kit is here:

http://treasure-cove.net/PolishingKit.htm
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: pinnies4me on January 03, 2010, 09:07:34 PM
Kit is here:

http://treasure-cove.net/PolishingKit.htm

Do you use them John?
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: shansta on January 03, 2010, 11:24:11 PM
Kit is here:

http://treasure-cove.net/PolishingKit.htm

Do you use them John?

Quote from the website:

"I was thoroughly impressed with the original TreasureCove Playfield Scrubbers, but the new and improved Playfield Cleaning and Polishing Kit produces superior results in less time, with less work and mess! I can get a nicer shine in 15 minutes than I formerly did polishing for hours by hand. Gone are the days of hand-polishing playfields with Novus #2!  My CFTBL and T2 playfields have never looked better. Truly a bargain ... "   John Wart Jr. Columbus, IN
 

Does that help?  <.>  (I happened to be on the page 2hrs ago!)
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on January 04, 2010, 03:17:58 AM
I was the 'beta test site' for their kit when it was first offered to the public.

Yes, I use it :) Good stuff! Big thing to keep in mind is to get a decent corded drill that does 2500 RPM. I had to buy the kit and the drill, so it wasn't cheap. Wasn't super expensive either, I think the drill I bought was $50-60, before I only had a cordless.

You won't get the best results without the corded drill.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 04, 2010, 06:24:30 AM
Thats good to know about the corded drill ill have to go buy one before my kit arrives
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 09, 2010, 11:33:20 PM

The machine was re assembled prior to me going away, but I didn't get time to post an update. Basically, all the upper playfeild was completely re assembled. The new "bowl" ramp from RTBB was installed and looks great. I did a "test run" on the machine to make sure everything was working perfectly prior to upgrading the boards.

here's a couple of "quick pix" of the machine - Powered on and no issues at all !

(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL207_resize.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL210_resize.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL211_resize.jpg)


Now that the game is cosmetically done, I need to work on the boards and then do some final testing. I still need a speaker to finish off the job.

Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 09, 2010, 11:41:46 PM
Looking good Nino.    I work the opposite from you i get them going before i clean them up but you have more confidence with the newer machines well done. 

   Mine is finally working 100% so wont be to long before the strip i cant wait after seeing your results  ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Chad on January 09, 2010, 11:43:21 PM
looks great
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: v8racefan on January 09, 2010, 11:45:57 PM
Well done nino ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 09, 2010, 11:48:37 PM
Must add that new bowl looks shit  hot  will definately have to add a new one to mine.    But does it make the originals look out of place????  Looks great in the photos
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 09, 2010, 11:56:38 PM
Must add that new bowl looks shit  hot  will definately have to add a new one to mine.    But does it make the originals look out of place????  Looks great in the photos

No - it does not stick out and make the others look ordinary, as the bowl is far from other ramps. I thought it might cause an issue, but I'm REALLY pleased it didn't.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 09, 2010, 11:58:27 PM
Must add that new bowl looks shit  hot  will definately have to add a new one to mine.    But does it make the originals look out of place????  Looks great in the photos

No - it does not stick out and make the others look ordinary, as the bowl is far from other ramps. I thought it might cause an issue, but I'm REALLY pleased it didn't.

SWEET thats great nino that the only reason i didnt order one already look out rtbb
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 10, 2010, 12:17:16 AM
Must add that new bowl looks shit  hot  will definately have to add a new one to mine.    But does it make the originals look out of place????  Looks great in the photos

No - it does not stick out and make the others look ordinary, as the bowl is far from other ramps. I thought it might cause an issue, but I'm REALLY pleased it didn't.

SWEET thats great nino that the only reason i didnt order one already look out rtbb


I'll take some more pictures for you tomorrow - close ups etc..

Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 10, 2010, 12:21:22 AM
Must add that new bowl looks shit  hot  will definately have to add a new one to mine.    But does it make the originals look out of place????  Looks great in the photos

No - it does not stick out and make the others look ordinary, as the bowl is far from other ramps. I thought it might cause an issue, but I'm REALLY pleased it didn't.

SWEET thats great nino that the only reason i didnt order one already look out rtbb


I'll take some more pictures for you tomorrow - close ups etc..



Thanks Nino looking forward to them  ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on January 10, 2010, 04:25:39 AM
Looks good!

I'm unfortunately sidetracked on my project. I've been selling an estates worth of pinballs for a friends wife since early 2009, and got a buyer for his MB. So, I had to fix all the stuff that was wrong with it, and unfortunately, the MB is gonna be at least another weeks worth of evenings before it's ready to go!
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Gordo on January 10, 2010, 08:54:24 AM
Hi,

Is there any way to hide the wires that come out of the bowl? It always looks a little unfininished to me.

It looks great, may shout myself a new bowl as well. I need to order the polisher first.

Great job.

Gordo....
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 10, 2010, 11:11:57 AM
Hi,

Is there any way to hide the wires that come out of the bowl? It always looks a little unfininished to me.

It looks great, may shout myself a new bowl as well. I need to order the polisher first.

Great job.

Gordo....

I've yet to see a cover for that area. I guess one could be made.
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ktm450 on January 13, 2010, 01:57:16 PM
Fantastic job Nino, looks great  *%*
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration - complete
Post by: Strangeways on January 28, 2010, 11:25:58 PM

All the remaining tweaking and testing have been done and I've moved it into the gamesroom. I've very pleased with the outcome. The new owner has a new set of plastics to replace the broken ones. The games plays really well. Definitely an under rated title.

Here's the finished Snack Bar repair ;


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL244.jpg)


General Playfield shots (just need instruction cards) ;


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL242.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL247.jpg)


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL249.jpg)


No Flash


(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL248.jpg)


The final product



(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/CFTBL/CFTBL243.jpg)


Very pleased !

 :D :D
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: johnwartjr on January 29, 2010, 04:20:19 PM
Looks very nice, I'm sure its owner will be pleased!
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on January 29, 2010, 05:18:14 PM
I got to see and play this game and i gather the owner will be real happy with the outcome of this Creech !

Very nice machine....
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 29, 2010, 05:32:25 PM
Looks Great Nino the owner will be happy without a doupt
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: MartyJ on January 29, 2010, 05:45:34 PM
Great work as always Nino.  The new owner should be very pleased.

Its been great to watch two of these beauties go and be restored at the same time!
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: v8racefan on January 29, 2010, 09:39:24 PM
Excellent work  ^^^

how good do the crome legs look
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: silverball on January 29, 2010, 09:51:24 PM
Very nice Nino, I think Marco is having second thoughts about installing black rubber now *)*
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 29, 2010, 10:47:37 PM

Thanks for the kind words - Like all machines, I enjoyed working on it thoroughly. As I finish off the Pin*Bot, I will be working on some rare EMs and an SS or two.

I know the new owner will love this machine, and I hope he picks it up before I have to shop it out again  #@#
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 29, 2010, 11:16:21 PM

Thanks for the kind words - Like all machines, I enjoyed working on it thoroughly. As I finish off the Pin*Bot, I will be working on some rare EMs and an SS or two.

I know the new owner will love this machine, and I hope he picks it up before I have to shop it out again  #@#

NICE  that all comes down to quality control Nino it wouldnt be full service without testing the shit out of it  &&
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 29, 2010, 11:40:23 PM

Thanks for the kind words - Like all machines, I enjoyed working on it thoroughly. As I finish off the Pin*Bot, I will be working on some rare EMs and an SS or two.

I know the new owner will love this machine, and I hope he picks it up before I have to shop it out again  #@#

NICE  that all comes down to quality control Nino it wouldnt be full service without testing the shit out of it  &&

New owner is FUSSY. so I've been testing it "night and day" !
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: ktm450 on January 30, 2010, 10:57:29 AM
Great results Nino, looks fantastic  ^^^
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Pinfan on January 30, 2010, 05:48:31 PM
Quote
New owner is FUSSY. so I've been testing it "night and day" !


Are you sure you're not testing it "night and day" because you will REALLY miss it when its gone !  *)*
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Wotto on February 01, 2010, 11:05:07 PM
Very nice Nino, I think Marco is having second thoughts about installing black rubber now *)*


YEP- I tried to tell him but he just dont listen that boy  ()
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Wotto on February 01, 2010, 11:06:57 PM
I know the new owner will love this machine, and I hope he picks it up before I have to shop it out again  #@#

MAN - if that was me I would be ripping down there and grabbing it this weekend after seeing those pics  *)*
What the hell is he waiting for  !@#
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on February 02, 2010, 09:04:00 AM
I know the new owner will love this machine, and I hope he picks it up before I have to shop it out again  #@#

MAN - if that was me I would be ripping down there and grabbing it this weekend after seeing those pics  *)*
What the hell is he waiting for  !@#

What the hell are YOU waiting for then ?

 %.% %.%
Title: Re: Creature From The Black Lagoon Restoration
Post by: Wotto on February 02, 2010, 12:02:15 PM
Sssssssshhhhhh  #@#