The Aussie Pinball Arcade
Aussie Pinball Forums => Restorations => Topic started by: Strangeways on August 04, 2013, 03:37:19 PM
-
I have two EMs I'm currently restoring. One is a "High Hand" which will incorporate a cabinet repaint, so that will be done in October when the weather improves. The other is a very popular Gottlieb "Surf Champ". There's a bit of a story about this game. A member reserved the game that was from an earlier container, but the playfield had some planking issues that would need addressing either by a full restoration to the playfield and then a clearcoat. The June container had a Surf Champ, but I didn't have any pictures, I just wanted it for this container. After it landed, I took photos and checked it out and is was in very good condition. I contacted the member, and he agreed - we would proceed with the BETTER of the two !
Condition Report
Cabinet 8/10 - Really amazing for its age. Lower cabinet is really good, the head has some paint lift, but it is really solid. The serial numbers match even though the head looks to be slightly darker.
Playfield 8/10 - Dirty. No planking, but lots of ball swirl. Insert wear and loss of paint around the outhole.
Electrical - 8/10 - Missing the credit unit (will be sourced) and the chimes present but disabled. Everything looks great.
Since this game was sourced from a collection overseas - it worked perfectly when I plugged it in. It played sloppy as the rubbers were hard, but it worked !
BEFORE pictures
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20001.JPG)
Backglass is really nice
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20002.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20004.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20005.JPG)
No Credit Unit !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20007.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20010.JPG)
Filthy and ball swirl predominant on lower playfield.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20012.JPG)
Areas of ball swirl removed (lower section) and area untouched (top section)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20039.JPG)
Lower playfield - Left side untouched, right side cleaned completely. You do get some paint spots lift, but it is much better than the ball swirl.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20047.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20049.JPG)
Left lanes with dirt, right lanes cleaned
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20057.JPG)
After a few hours of work with Magic Eraser and alcohol, we have a very decent looking playfield
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20041.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20042.JPG)
Obviously the playfield is COMPLETELY stripped as all new parts will be installed. Nothing worse than leaving all the old broken and worn hardware such as pop bumpers etc !
All the inserts will now have to be removed, flattened and then inserted back into the playfield as level as I can get them. I think we will be mylaring the playfield. A BIG Game specific order has been made with PBR, and the rest of the parts will be from the local Gottlieb Parts supplier RTBB.
-
I love Surf Champ/Surfer, great to see one getting the treatment!!
-
looks like you have a good base to work with. should come up a treat with your touch! $#$
-
very nice @@*
-
Very nice Nino,
I will be watching and learning as I have a surf champ (my keeper pin) in the shed waiting for the treatment
if you need artwork for the spinner I have some stencil artwork so you can apply your own small stencils and spray your own. The attachment is just a small pdf version, but have the artwork file if you need.
-
B E W D I F U L L ! ! ! !
^^^ I am getting a chubby already *%*
Will go nicely with my new MICKEY MUNOZ surfboard
-
What makes this title so collectible ? Is it the theme or ?
This one should turn out really well by the looks of it .
-
B E W D I F U L L ! ! ! !
^^^ I am getting a chubby already *%*
Will go nicely with my new MICKEY MUNOZ surfboard
nice board mate, gotta love being out in the water
What makes this title so collectible ? Is it the theme or ?
This one should turn out really well by the looks of it .
I haven't played many EM's at all so for me it is theme and a nice backglass and it has a mix of everything on the playfield - which I think is what makes it popular is just a bit of everything on there and a mix up in the layout, could be wrong, maybe Nino can share his knowledge on that question.
-
starting to appreciate these EM's pins, Very nice title, will be a Stunner when finished ^^^
-
Very nice Nino,
I will be watching and learning as I have a surf champ (my keeper pin) in the shed waiting for the treatment
if you need artwork for the spinner I have some stencil artwork so you can apply your own small stencils and spray your own. The attachment is just a small pdf version, but have the artwork file if you need.
Thanks VERY much for the artwork, Jady. I usually put new spinners and then the artwork, and finally the mylar.
What makes this title so collectible ? Is it the theme or ?
This one should turn out really well by the looks of it .
I think the theme has a lot to do with it, but the layout with the Drop Targets in a difficult space next to the Pop Bumpers makes it a challenging game. A direct flipper hit to the topmost DT will be obscured so you need to use the pop bumpers. The rollovers add bonus to collect on the outhole. A very cool feature. The game is much more of a player, and it has appreciated in both price and also desirability. GTB managed to make a few excellent 4 players in this era. I prefer the Bally's, but you can see where the designs for future SS machines started from.
-
B E W D I F U L L ! ! ! !
^^^ I am getting a chubby already *%*
Will go nicely with my new MICKEY MUNOZ surfboard
nice board mate, gotta love being out in the water
What makes this title so collectible ? Is it the theme or ?
This one should turn out really well by the looks of it .
I haven't played many EM's at all so for me it is theme and a nice backglass and it has a mix of everything on the playfield - which I think is what makes it popular is just a bit of everything on there and a mix up in the layout, could be wrong, maybe Nino can share his knowledge on that question.
I think it is a "bit of everything". GTB produced some awesome 4 players - Target Alpha and Royal Flush are other very good players. Predominantly drop target games, and "collect Bonus" features.
-
Great start, the art work on this machine looks Beautiful. I'm sure it'll be a stunner once your finished.
-
What makes this title so collectible ? Is it the theme or ?
This one should turn out really well by the looks of it .
Theme is the MAIN reason for me as I love my oldskool surfing and memorabilia and also it plays like a demon too! definitely one of the better EM's out there IMO and also one of the last as it was manufactured in 1976 if I remember rightly. EVERYBODY needs at least one old girl in there collection, I have 3 soon to be 4!
There are also very few surfing themed pinball out there that I am aware of
SURFER which is the same GTB but 2 player and IMO a much better back glass
SURFING by SEGA very rare and only a few made in Japan would like to play and own
and also a 1967 SURFERS by BALLY , bloody ugly and a pig to play IMO but hey you never know I might get one?
-
Surf Champ is a great game to play. Could have easily been made into an SS
-
Should come up really nice Nino. The BG looks in amazing condition *%*
Will you be doing any touchup work around the inserts that have wear around them?
The PF looks like it'll come up nice too ^^^
-
Should come up really nice Nino. The BG looks in amazing condition *%*
Will you be doing any touchup work around the inserts that have wear around them?
The PF looks like it'll come up nice too ^^^
I think I will attempt the outhole wear and the insert wear. The plan is to mylar the playfield, so I'll do my best. I'm a few days ahead - the inserts are all removed !
-
Top job getting that ball swirl out Nino.
Noticed you use alcohol with the eraser, do you prefer it compared to novus ?
When you say alcohol, is it Isopropyl alcohol ?
-
Top job getting that ball swirl out Nino.
Noticed you use alcohol with the eraser, do you prefer it compared to novus ?
When you say alcohol, is it Isopropyl alcohol ?
Yes Kev - Isopropyl alcohol, Magic Eraser and lots of patience.
Cleaning the ball swirl is a process I do after I've cleaned the dirt with Nifti. I then move to Novus 3 and then Novus 2. At this point I can see anything I have missed. I then clean again with Metho so I can prep for painting.
-
Surfer/Surf Champ is a really nice EM. The colours on this one are still very much alive, and Nino really nice job on getting that ball swirl out from the PF. Just looking at how much of it there was (especially around the right hand side slingshot area) and what it looks like now - alot of work, but the results speak for themselves. The "old" PF is on its way back again.
I think the theme has a lot to do with it, but the layout with the Drop Targets in a difficult space next to the Pop Bumpers makes it a challenging game. A direct flipper hit to the topmost DT will be obscured so you need to use the pop bumpers.
I did own a Surf Champ, it was a challenging player (getting all the DTs down in one ball). Like you said above, the top DT is impossible to hit directly - that "blasted" spinner was in the way. That was my only gripe about the game - just my 2c worth, but I thought the spinner didn't really add any value (it could only be lit for 100 at best), and was in the way of the top DTs. Other than that (which is minor gripe I suppose), a really fun and challenging game.
-
Beautiful old game Nino. Where there any of these sold new in Australia in the 1970's?
-
What makes this title so collectible ? Is it the theme or ?
This one should turn out really well by the looks of it .
Theme is the MAIN reason for me as I love my oldskool surfing and memorabilia and also it plays like a demon too! definitely one of the better EM's out there IMO and also one of the last as it was manufactured in 1976 if I remember rightly. EVERYBODY needs at least one old girl in there collection, I have 3 soon to be 4!
There are also very few surfing themed pinball out there that I am aware of
SURFER which is the same GTB but 2 player and IMO a much better back glass
SURFING by SEGA very rare and only a few made in Japan would like to play and own
and also a 1967 SURFERS by BALLY , bloody ugly and a pig to play IMO but hey you never know I might get one?
Thankfully it looks like the short board revolution of 67 still hadn't hit the Gottlieb factory in 77. Long live the traditional longboard!
Congrats on the new Munoz btw. "The Mongoose" is/was a great shaper.
Cheers, Ben
-
Beautiful old game Nino. Where there any of these sold new in Australia in the 1970's?
Back in the 70's pinballs were purely for operators. They were not sold to the public as they are today. When my father was an operator, he flew to the GTB factory and picked out the latest titles. They were NIB EMs that were imported in containers. He did the same for Bally SS games.
When I was a child, we had a few Surf Champs. I remember them well as Dad gave one to a school friend of mine to use for his Dad's beach house.
-
Great story and info- such different times. I wonder how many of them are still around? I can imagine that surf champ sitting in a beach house- perfect place for it.
-
Great pics and explanations. Love these types of posts.
Ta
Thasaman
-
Any new pics of the progress Nino?
I had to read this thread again and noticed that quite a few people have read and would love some more info
^^^
-
Any new pics of the progress Nino?
I had to read this thread again and noticed that quite a few people have read and would love some more info
^^^
+1 Great looking game, I'm also looking forward to updates.
-
The mylar has arrived and I'm still in the process of removing the inserts and commencing the touch up work. Nothing too exciting at the moment, but I'll do a big update soon.
-
Cabinet repairs
Disassembly of the internals
(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20059.JPG)
The lower cabinet is stripped completely and as I was cleaning it, I noticed that the bottom timber sections had separated on the left side. So I had to glue, clamp and then staple back together. It took a while, but it had to be done.
(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20064.JPG)
(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20074.JPG)
All the assemblies are removed and checked to see if there are any damaged or worn parts. If they are good, they are cleaned and thrown in the tumbler
(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20059.JPG)
(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20065.JPG)
Here is the Chime unit looking a little "furry" !
(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20068.JPG)
.. and here it is after a rebuild.
(http://aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20075.JPG)
The lower section is fully rebuilt, all I have to do is drop in the baseboard and also the rebuilt door (forgot to take pictures !).
-
aaaahhhhhhhh those sweet sweet chimes!
loving the original cabinet, sometimes you just have to leave things alone
-
love these em's
great work !!!!
-
The external side of the door was complete, but it was missing most of the internal parts.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20079.JPG)
I have a heap of spares that I had re plated months ago that will be used ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20081.JPG)
Most of the parts are installed. I need to locate the other box of smaller parts I replated ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20124.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20122.JPG)
The plunger and assembly have been polished. The lock down bar assembly was also removed and polished.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20125.JPG)
Now to the sections that require a lot of time. The baseboard is placed on the bench and stripped. I carefully remove the original labels and laminate them. The timber baseboard is sanded back and the labels stapled back on
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20099.JPG)
All the relays are checked, cleaned and gapped. Steppers are rebuilt and adjusted. Coil sleeves are always replaced and the springs checked for tension.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20111.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20114.JPG)
New power cable is wired into the main loom. Just waiting on the EMI filter which I will add to the circuit.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20116.JPG)
Before ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20082.JPG)
Completed ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20113.JPG)
-
love it when the engine is clean! nice work ^^^
wish I had your skill set.
I noticed you used beer foam for the cushioning of the chimes plungers, I never thought of that, those grommets are a bastard
-
Headbox Work
This is where a lot of time is spent rebuilding 20 scorereels and the important "Player Unit", which is the most important assembly of the game. Here are the assemblies as mounted in the head. The entire headbox board will be removed.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20131.JPG)
Stripped. Artwork is REALLY good for an original game.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20147.JPG)
Assembly parts are cleaned and tumbled.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20148.JPG)
The PLAYER UNIT - This stepper is responsible for routing the game through each player (1-4). It is simple in design, but it needs to be running perfectly for the game to work for each player.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20152.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20156.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20158.JPG)
Stripped, cleaned and the springs are tested for strength and then I re assemble.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20160.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20183.JPG)
The Match unit is also a stepper unit. The smallest stepper, but this is often seized. This is the unit after being rebuilt ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20181.JPG)
Here is the most "time consuming" part of the restoration. Most of the issues with "fully shopped" EMs is in this area - the score reels. It is really EASY to simply clean the reels and be done with it. These assemblies look VERY clean already, but each one will be totally dis assembled, cleaned, checked and then re assembled. It takes around 25 minutes per score reel. So there's a day's work in this area.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20185.JPG)
The assebly will have some old lubricant which now can act as an adhesive ! I always soak the parts in degreaser, then water, then metho. The board needs to be cleaned with scotchbrite and then I use a drop of oil and smear it across the contacts ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20197.JPG)
Parts are soaked then I use the air gun to remove any remnants of water.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20191.JPG)
Then I can re assemble
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20190.JPG)
Here's what the parts look like from one of the units ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20198.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20187.JPG)
In the picture below, the bottom row are rebuilt. There does not seem to be a huge difference, other than they are rebuilt, and should be "trouble free" for the next 20 years. That's around 5 hours work JUST on the bottom row. I always replace the coil sleeves and clean the contacts. I'll post pictures of the filthy contacts and also the coil sleeves and it become clear how these units can develop problems.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20199.JPG)
A "close up" of the rebuilt bottom row ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20200.JPG)
The key to these GTB 4 Players is THIS step I've almost completed. The PLAYER UNIT and the SCORE REELS.
-
So metho is the key to cleaning the contacts!
I need to do this on my other old girls. More tips required ^^^
-
You can now understand why there isn't much money in dealers selling EM's. The hours would add up very quick and make it uneconomical
-
So metho is the key to cleaning the contacts!
I need to do this on my other old girls. More tips required ^^^
I clean the contacts with a thin piece of cardboard. Most of the crap comes off easily. I then clean with Metho and a toothbrush - gently. Then compressed air (45 PSI - you don't want to damage the contacts).
You can now understand why there isn't much money in dealers selling EM's. The hours would add up very quick and make it uneconomical
EM restoration is definitely a hobbyist's domain, and that's the way I approach EM restorations. There's no way an hourly rate can be charged for this level of work. I get a LOT of enjoyment restoring EMs. But doing it on a commercial level to obtain a profit just can't happen. That's why I mainly do the EM restorations "in between" jobs, or on weekends - I treat them as the "hobby".
-
I love your work Nino.
Thank you so much for taking the time to take and post all the pictures and commentary.
-
I love your work Nino.
Thank you so much for taking the time to take and post all the pictures and commentary.
Thanks for the kind words, Mark. I still look forward to working on EMs, and I hope that others can learn from the details I post here. It is not that hard, but it takes time and dedication. I call it "therapy" &^&
-
Your an artist in your field Nino. excellent job on all the machines ive seen you restore on ap. im about to start my first em restore and im sorry it wont be up to the standard you display.
-
Some unbelievably good work there! Love the theme as well. If fact I think I need a surf right now #@#
-
Have 1 for me!
-
Here's an example of the typical dirty contacts and the damage lubricants can do to moving parts.
This is a score reel EOS switch. Now keep in mind all the score reels looked to be in excellent condition, but the underlying problems are still there. This is simply a piece of cardboard wedged inbetween the contacts, and swiped once !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20204.JPG)
Coils sleeves - the leftmost one is filthy !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20205.JPG)
The MAMMOTH job of rebuilding all the score reels is finally completed !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20207.JPG)
Moving on to the backglass. There is minor lifting that needs to be fixed before I mask out the individual score reel windows. So rather than risk removing more flakes of paint (simply by cleaning them), I'm going to seal the lower sections - but I mask out the entire score reel section. I will mask these correctly once the surrounding areas are sealed.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20208.JPG)
The sealing of the backglass will need 3 coats. this will be the first - and the reason for this quick seal is that I don't want to lose any more artwork.
-
Cardboard hey? What are your thoughts on when to use the contact file?
This is looking really sparkly and some great advice for us wanting to restore and maintain these oldskool treasures.
-
Very thorough and excellent work Nino. Gotta love the workings of an EM, especially the score reels.
-
Now that I've sealed the areas that were starting to flake, I can mask off the scorereel area and give it another 2 coats.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20210.JPG)
I'll probably go back and do some minor touch ups later on.
Now back to the playfield. The mechanisms etc under the playfield need to be rebuilt. Lamp sockets are checked and I generally remove all the parts in sections and give them a clean.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20213.JPG)
More steppers to rebuild !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20216.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20217.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20223.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20224.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20225.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20228.JPG)
The Drop Target is rebuilt with new DT from PBR
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20234.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20247.JPG)
Completed and ready to install
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20252.JPG)
The next update will be the playfield preparation prior to installing mylar.The playfield is really nice, but it needs insert leveling and some minor touch ups.
-
:D
getting really excited now $#$
-
Very nice work, great to see all the photos of the mechs ^^^
-
Cardboard hey? What are your thoughts on when to use the contact file?
This is looking really sparkly and some great advice for us wanting to restore and maintain these oldskool treasures.
I use contact files - as in the METAL file - I use for high current applications such as the slingshot contacts and flipper button contacts.
Flexstone contacts are good for many applications where there a very worn contacts.
I use thin cardboard as most contacts are in excellent shape, but they have built up dirt, lube and other crap that simply require the cardboard to "dislodge" the dirt. All the contacts in the score reels were cleaned with cardboard. The relays - I used Flexstone in some cases - you can tell - where the point on the leaf contact is larger.
-
I use contact files - as in the METAL file - I use for high current applications such as the slingshot contacts and flipper button contacts.
Flexstone contacts are good for many applications where there a very worn contacts.
I use thin cardboard as most contacts are in excellent shape, but they have built up dirt, lube and other crap that simply require the cardboard to "dislodge" the dirt. All the contacts in the score reels were cleaned with cardboard. The relays - I used Flexstone in some cases - you can tell - where the point on the leaf contact is larger.
[/quote]
Cool, cheers for the info, hope this helps others too ^^^
-
I would never thought to use cardboard, thanks for the tip. ^^^
-
I use contact files - as in the METAL file - I use for high current applications such as the slingshot contacts and flipper button contacts.
Flexstone contacts are good for many applications where there a very worn contacts.
I use thin cardboard as most contacts are in excellent shape, but they have built up dirt, lube and other crap that simply require the cardboard to "dislodge" the dirt. All the contacts in the score reels were cleaned with cardboard. The relays - I used Flexstone in some cases - you can tell - where the point on the leaf contact is larger.
Cool, cheers for the info, hope this helps others too ^^^
[/quote]
Cardboard here too.. namely a strip off a business card or similar dipped in meths. Lifts the dirt and grease off easily
-
The Playfield ended up needing (well it didn't "need", I just "wanted to") a bit more work. The bonus inserts were slightly sunken and I thought it was best to remove them, level them and then re install. I avoid levelling any inserts that have artwork on them, as this is not really a "High End" playfield restoration.
So here is what I started with after many sessions with Magic Eraser and alcohol ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20042.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20041.JPG)
Inserts removed and leveled
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20128.JPG)
These inserts will also be removed and I have the area in front of the outhole to attend to
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20129.JPG)
Inserts installed and leveled ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20261.JPG)
I gave Gavin (Retropin) the dimensions of the inserts, and he sent me down some inserts templates to play around with - rather than use a sharpie. The were VERY easy to use and the results were promising. I've replaced the STAR rollovers as they were old and grubby.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20271.JPG)
I've done some of the STAR rollover inserts using the templates. I used my airbrush to paint the borders.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20273.JPG)
Bonus area ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20262.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20265.JPG)
Some lines needed to be done
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20276.JPG)
Bonus area completed
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20306.JPG)
The area I need to touch up is lightly sanded and then masked. I then had the wife match the paint and then I built up the area with the divot and blended in the surrounding area ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20288.JPG)
Done !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20305.JPG)
The playfield is ready for the next step !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20307.JPG)
-
^^^
BEST THREAD EVER !
Loving the close up shots and that Gav does the insert stencils. Learning heaps
Beautifull oldskool artwork, classic surfie theme.
How good is it looking.
-
Thanks for the pictures, it's good to see the different tricks people use on these restos.
Can never learn too much.
-
Great improvement Nino.
For the areas near the pop bumpers, there is the typical pitting in the paint from the years of downward hammering the ball from the pop bumpers. Will you be using the floating type of of mylar ring around the pop bumpers (as per Gottlieb standard), or adhesive type? I repaced mine on the Buccaneer with the latter, after touching up the playfield. I thought in that way, no more dirt getting under the ring.
-
Lookn great so far Nino ^^^ ^^^
Great job with the wear spot in the light blue ^^^
-
Great improvement Nino.
For the areas near the pop bumpers, there is the typical pitting in the paint from the years of downward hammering the ball from the pop bumpers. Will you be using the floating type of of mylar ring around the pop bumpers (as per Gottlieb standard), or adhesive type? I repaced mine on the Buccaneer with the latter, after touching up the playfield. I thought in that way, no more dirt getting under the ring.
I prefer the adhesive. I'll cover that in my next update.
Lookn great so far Nino ^^^ ^^^
Great job with the wear spot in the light blue ^^^
My wife is very good at color matching. I like to cover more than the area I'm working on to distract the eyes from the touch up itself.
-
My wife is very good at color matching. I like to cover more than the area I'm working on to distract the eyes from the touch up itself.
Yepp, that is often the best way to do it, mask off the entire area of colour as you did. *%*
-
Update and disclaimer - Early in the project, it was decided to install mylar, so I proceeded with the touch ups and leveling etc. The mylar was ordered from the USA, got lost in transit and I had to wait until the insurance went through etc etc. All the warnings were already there in front of me - "Do not install mylar on this playfield.."
So I prepared the playfield and it took 45 minutes to install the mylar and it went on perfectly except for a small crease near the spinner (which makes no sense), as can be seen in the photos below ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20308.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20309.JPG)
Happy that it was installed correctly, and it was as smooth as glass, I went off to do some other work and returned 2 hours later to see this ;
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20310.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20312.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20313.JPG)
Horrified, I thought I'd let it settle and then straighten it the following day. The next day, it was even worse, and was deteriorating every hour. The lifting and creases were increasing in size !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20314.JPG)
I called up Gavin, as I needed a second opinion. His idea was to remove it asap before the adhesive sets. So I did - and it look 15 minutes.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20320.JPG)
You can see the mylar is simply rubbish. Now this is "supposed" to be the best on the market. Never again !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20321.JPG)
Morale of the story and lesson learnt - I've applied mylar on over 20 games without a single issue. "Mylar" these days is NOT the same as it was 10 years ago. APR will NEVER install mylar on a playfield. The best place for mylar is .. in the bin !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20318.JPG)
Right - So after cleaning up the residue - which took minutes as the adhesive was rubbish - we have decided to clearcoat the playfield professionally ! This will be great opportunity to see how an EM plays with a clearcoat !
So in the end, no damage done, and a lesson learned. I've currently prepared the playfield and it will be clearcoated in the next 2 weeks.
-
The only disturbing thing I found in the Mylar fiasco was that you wear crocks. %.%
-
OUCH... Not good!!
I hardly know what to say !@# Did this stuff have a brand name Nino, like it wasn't 3M or something was it??
The stuff i use is 3M brand material and i've never had anything like THAT happen.
Sorry to see it didnt work out for you Nino, i feel kinda guilty now seeing as you mentioned in one of my resto threads you were going to give mylar a try !@)
-
OUCH... Not good!!
I hardly know what to say !@# Did this stuff have a brand name Nino, like it wasn't 3M or something was it??
The stuff i use is 3M brand material and i've never had anything like THAT happen.
Sorry to see it didnt work out for you Nino, i feel kinda guilty now seeing as you mentioned in one of my resto threads you were going to give mylar a try !@)
Don't worry Mitch, it was not 3M. It was from the USA. Won't be their fault either. It is just inferior quality and frustrated the hell out of me. I have 4 full size sheets that I will use for patch up jobs rather then full playfield. I might give it ago again some day - but I will use the 3M stuff.
Once I have the correct setup for Clearcoating playfields, I'll probably just go down that path permanently. But for those that wish to use mylar, use ONLY the 3M brand that Mitch speaks of. don't take the risk with the unbranded stuff like I did !
-
Disappointing to see mate, glad it was easy to remove without damage. I've only used the 3M Mylar, which is very good quality and have never had an issue with.
The only disturbing thing I found in the Mylar fiasco was that you wear crocks. %.%
Funny stuff :lol
-
From tragedy, triumph will prevail!
-
The only disturbing thing I found in the Mylar fiasco was that you wear crocks. %.%
Yup, sorry, I have to admit as well I am a crock wearer in summer. Sometimes I have to remember to crop them out of images I take before I post on the forum. I have a feeling cropping it wasn't Nino's priority for this story %$%
Wow Nino, as I scrolled through this update my gut sank. It can be such a disheartening moment. Thank goodness the stuff came off. I am sure if the paint was removed when you took off the mylar I would have heard you screaming up here in Sydney. Well, at least it should hopefully work out well from this point forward. Now let's just hope there's no dodgy clear!!
-
The only disturbing thing I found in the Mylar fiasco was that you wear crocks. %.%
Yup, sorry, I have to admit as well I am a crock wearer in summer. Sometimes I have to remember to crop them out of images I take before I post on the forum. I have a feeling cropping it wasn't Nino's priority for this story %$%
Wow Nino, as I scrolled through this update my gut sank. It can be such a disheartening moment. Thank goodness the stuff came off. I am sure if the paint was removed when you took off the mylar I would have heard you screaming up here in Sydney. Well, at least it should hopefully work out well from this point forward. Now let's just hope there's no dodgy clear!!
None of my touch up work lifted. Either the touch ups were good, or the mylar had no adhesion. Probably a bit of both.
The crocks are a different story. I've worn them out completely. They have no tread left on the bottom, so they become Ice Skates in the wet. But they are comfortable. I need to buy a new pair.
-
So what appeared to be a massive of time lost to install the mylar, I've moved on and had the first clear applied and block sand to level. It is simply amazing ! Some of my touch ups around the inserts were sanded down so I re painted them with Gav's insert templates and my airbrush. The playfield has been returned to my clearcoat guy for the last couple of coats before curing - which will take 2-3 weeks. I can't wait to see the results ! I'm also having the Genire cleared at some stage and I'll cover that on it's own resto thread.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20325.JPG)
^^^
-
Out of curiosity, is there a way to "darken" the wood (underneath the flipper areas, in their resting position) to match the surrounding wood?
-
Out of curiosity, is there a way to "darken" the wood (underneath the flipper areas, in their resting position) to match the surrounding wood?
Yes there is. A lot of careful sanding and then some touch up work on any paint affected areas. In this example, I'm not going "all out" as we have changed scope to clearcoat the playfield, so I needed to keep it affordable. The shooter lanes on these are always a problem as they are milled through 2 or more layers of ply. If any dirt or wax is lodged in the wood-fibers, then it is incredibly difficult to remove without vigorous sanding.
So it can be done, and it just takes more effort.
-
Tan lines suit the theme I reckon. #@#
-
Tan lines suit the theme I reckon. #@#
Ha ha agreed.
-
Tan lines suit the theme I reckon. #@#
"Tan lines" lol
I agree, it suits the theme.
-
Out of curiosity, is there a way to "darken" the wood (underneath the flipper areas, in their resting position) to match the surrounding wood?
Yes there is. A lot of careful sanding and then some touch up work on any paint affected areas. In this example, I'm not going "all out" as we have changed scope to clearcoat the playfield, so I needed to keep it affordable. The shooter lanes on these are always a problem as they are milled through 2 or more layers of ply. If any dirt or wax is lodged in the wood-fibers, then it is incredibly difficult to remove without vigorous sanding.
So it can be done, and it just takes more effort.
Some great work here Nino, great to see these machines being restored to former glory but more than that, giving them a new lease on life so to speak.
A quick question, i notice you use an airbrush to fix some of the playfield artwork and was wondering, what kind of paint are you using? I understand you might want to keep some things close to your chest, but any info you can provide would be appreciated and help with my Sinbad restoration.
I assume you are using some type of acrylic paint, perhaps automotive or hobby? Any tips on how you thin it down for the gun?
Any info you could provide is much appreciated.
Best regards
-
Out of curiosity, is there a way to "darken" the wood (underneath the flipper areas, in their resting position) to match the surrounding wood?
Yes there is. A lot of careful sanding and then some touch up work on any paint affected areas. In this example, I'm not going "all out" as we have changed scope to clearcoat the playfield, so I needed to keep it affordable. The shooter lanes on these are always a problem as they are milled through 2 or more layers of ply. If any dirt or wax is lodged in the wood-fibers, then it is incredibly difficult to remove without vigorous sanding.
So it can be done, and it just takes more effort.
Some great work here Nino, great to see these machines being restored to former glory but more than that, giving them a new lease on life so to speak.
A quick question, i notice you use an airbrush to fix some of the playfield artwork and was wondering, what kind of paint are you using? I understand you might want to keep some things close to your chest, but any info you can provide would be appreciated and help with my Sinbad restoration.
I assume you are using some type of acrylic paint, perhaps automotive or hobby? Any tips on how you thin it down for the gun?
Any info you could provide is much appreciated.
Best regards
%)% to AP !
I use Jo Sonja acrylics and I use Jo Sonja Flow Medium. you can buy online from art shops !
-
Champion, thankyou!
-
I received the playfield today, after it had its final coat of clear. It will be ready to install in about a week, but I did take some pictures today, and I was totally amazed at how good it is !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20331.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20332.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20333.JPG)
I'm very pleased with the touch up work and the clearcoat.
-
TWANG !!!!!!!
guess what just popped up? bloody beautiful $$(
-
That looks awesome *%*
-
Want!!!
Great result.
-
Looks excellent ^^^
-
Here's the progress with the playfield re assembly. I made the mistake of installing the wrong color bumper skirts, but that has been rectified.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20335.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20336.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20339.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20340.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20341.JPG)
The playfield should be finished off tomorrow and then I will double check everything before firing it up for the first time since I started ^^^
-
that looks beautiful Nino, how I wish I could have mine look like that.
Q1 - when games of this era with star roll overs are cleared, what is done with clearing this area - do you clear and then sand out of the gaps or something else.
Q2 - what clear works on the surf champ paints of the playfield?
Q3 - what type of touch up paints do you use, acrylic???
so nice, well done.
-
that looks beautiful Nino, how I wish I could have mine look like that.
Q1 - when games of this era with star roll overs are cleared, what is done with clearing this area - do you clear and then sand out of the gaps or something else.
Q2 - what clear works on the surf champ paints of the playfield?
Q3 - what type of touch up paints do you use, acrylic???
so nice, well done.
A1 - Games of this era had a varnish, not a clearcoat of this standard. It was also very thin, and had a different (dull) finish. So cleaning the rollover inserts was easy. It will be much harder to pick out and then file the inserts - one by one !
A2 - 2 pac clear applied by an experienced professional that has done quite a few clears with amazing results ! I don't know the exact brand(s). I know he uses the high end products.
A3 - Yes - acrylics. Jo Sonja paint range that works really well with the airbrush and is 100% compatible with the clear. Thankfully EM games are MUCH less involved than SS or DMD games.
-
Nino, awesome work as always.
Quick question, do you replace the screws and washers or do you somehow clean them up?
If clean them up, can you describe how you do that?
Thanks
-
Wow that playfield is stunning, it looks brand new! Fantastic work. #*#
-
Very nice ^^^
-
So very very close,I am finding it hard to contain my excitement!
-
Nino, awesome work as always.
Quick question, do you replace the screws and washers or do you somehow clean them up?
If clean them up, can you describe how you do that?
Thanks
Most people would use a Tumbler
here is a link
http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?topic=11125.0
or search tumbler as there is a lot of info on the forum
-
Nino, awesome work as always.
Quick question, do you replace the screws and washers or do you somehow clean them up?
If clean them up, can you describe how you do that?
Thanks
I clean them up by placing them in a hot solution of windex and water to remove the dirt, then dry and tumble. If they are bad, I buff them on the polishing wheel, but no too much. I like the original look which is not too buffed. The washers I sometimes replace, as they are hard to clean outside the tumbling process.
-
Thanks. I have an ultrasonic cleaner which i guess i can use to help clean.
What medium do you use when tumbling?
-
Absolutely outstanding work *%*
My skeghead/pinhead/dickhead mate Andy Oldskool is like a dog with two tails now.
Actually, all of us 'round here can't wait to see & play this beautifully restored piece of pinball art.
-
Absolutely outstanding work *%*
My skeghead/pinhead/dickhead mate Andy Oldskool is like a dog with two tails now.
Actually, all of us 'round here can't wait to see & play this beautifully restored piece of pinball art.
Coooooooool, I have a friend @@*
-
Absolutely outstanding work *%*
My skeghead/pinhead/dickhead mate Andy Oldskool is like a dog with two tails now.
Actually, all of us 'round here can't wait to see & play this beautifully restored piece of pinball art.
Hah :) He definately is itching for this beautiful machine. Was watching him (and Ralph) busily working and cleaning Joes new EM "Volley" aquisition on Monday night just gone. Getting his mullet-permed self in the 70's 'ding ding ding .... click click click' state of mind!! :)
-
Mini Update ;
I've had issues with the clear separating from the star rollovers.The offending area had to be carefully filled and leveled across three sessions. In the meantime, I've installed the hardware, and I'm doing some final testing. I have to install the spinner and the Credit Unit !
Some bling playfield shots in the meantime - with the new plastics set !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20345.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20346.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20348.JPG)
Almost done !
-
lookin like new. gotta love that shine. it so brings life into the playfield at making the art work deeper, more colourful. its like looking at a nice colourful fish in a fish tank ,bigger ,better, but take him out and he is smaller less colourful. Theres some thing about clear coating I like on old em's
great work again nino #*#
-
No wucking fay dude, I can't play this! It's too nice ^^^
-
That's looking beautiful! @@*
-
No wucking fay dude, I can't play this! It's too nice ^^^
You're one lucky dude, I dropped in last week to pick up some new Bally legs and saw this game in the flesh and it really is stunning. As nice as they are pictures don't even do it justice.
-
lookin like new. gotta love that shine. it so brings life into the playfield at making the art work deeper, more colourful. its like looking at a nice colourful fish in a fish tank ,bigger ,better, but take him out and he is smaller less colourful. Theres some thing about clear coating I like on old em's
great work again nino #*#
My clearcoat expert does an amazing job on these projects. He is just as fussy as I am. I will be clearcoating SS and EMs to this standard as required. It really does raise the deepness of the colors.
No wucking fay dude, I can't play this! It's too nice ^^^
You're one lucky dude, I dropped in last week to pick up some new Bally legs and saw this game in the flesh and it really is stunning. As nice as they are pictures don't even do it justice.
Genie will look amazing as well #@#
-
I owned Surfer as a lad (bought it from a neighbourhood kid who won it in a pinball contest). I bought it in 1982 and it lived in my bedroom for a few years until I moved out and eventually sold it in a garage sale for next to nothing. It was the only EM I had ever played till recently as SS machines were all the go at the time. I have a fondness for this game and looking at the job you have done simply amazes me. WOW. Awesome job! I would love one of these in my collection one day.
-
Ive had the privilege of seeing this in the flesh.
Stunning work by Nino and his clear coater !
Nice work Nino.
-
I saw this restoration a month or so ago. The clear coat on it is what inspired me to order my own own machine with a full restoration. It really is amazing to see - the clear coat is so thick that it looks nicer than a brand new machine. By comparison it makes a new machine look like it doesn't have a clear coat at all.
...No prizes for guessing what machine I've ordered for a 'Nino' full restoration! :D
-
Another SC? Best game ever
-
Genie will look amazing as well #@#
It already is Nino, it's going to be a stunner once it's finished.
-
Old Chicago - the best looking game ever! (As per my profile picture). ()
-
After strenuous testing and double checking everything, I'm proud to post the final update on this machine - which has had a few twist and turns along the way, but I', sure the new owner will be very pleased with the result. It has surpassed my expectations.
First - I needed to address the fact that this game was missing the entire credit unit. Lucky I had another one - so I rebuilt it and placed it in the game.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20349.JPG)
The spinner was also missing - or the wrong one - I can't remember. So I used the art Wotto did for me a while ago and printed it out on adhesive clear film. This is the only boo boo I made. Inkjet printers don't print white and the spinner is already blue. so it won't look exactly right.
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20358.JPG)
1st Ball Relay coil was toast. I didn't find this until my final checks. So it was replaced
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20359.JPG)
Finished pictures - my only disappointments were the spinner and the coin insert windows don't allow enough light through. These are minor things - the game NEEDS to be in WA before next weekend.. I'm absolutely thrilled with the playability on the machine. Stoked !
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20394.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20396.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20362.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20365.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20369.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20373.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20377.JPG)
(http://www.aussiepinball.com/strangeways/restores/SurfChamp1/Surf%20Champ%20389.JPG)
I'm really proud to put my name on this restoration.
-
$#$ the new owner will be stoked for sure! Oh yeah it's me *%*
Even if it doesn't make the PPCR meet I will share the stoke on a Monday at Joes joint so all can behold the new
BEST GAME EVER! %.%
That cabinet looks firkin awesome, but the Play field, WOW $$( $$( $$( $$(
This is and will be a players machine that will stay in my family to share with friends forever.
Heres hoping no dramas occur with freight?
Will do a post when received and thoroughly thrashed.
Cheers Niño
Andy
-
beautiful work and stunning machine Nino ^^^, and congrats Andy a awesome game ^^^
-
Seriously good work on Nino's part, I have never seen a better resto job (even from my humble self)
The ol' skeghead is well chuffed and so he should be.
I STILL maintain that the cabinet deserves bringing up to the same superb standard if only for consistency.
The new owner is a difficult bastard who likes his cabs "as is" for some obscure reason.
FMD . . . some people have no aesthetic sensibilities whatsoever.
Anyway, it will be a privilege to play once it's ensconced at his place.
-
Oh my.. looks beautiful!!
Oldskool... do you have an EM with CC PF already??.. they play so much better!.. tuned up slings, bumpers and flippers and its a really fast and furious game.. you will love it!
-
Oldskool... do you have an EM with CC PF already??.. they play so much better!.. tuned up slings, bumpers and flippers and its a really fast and furious game.. you will love it!
I do, but it is my own clear coat on a 1971GTB called 2001, seen thread. Not the greatest speed with 2 inch flippers but still needs some tweaking.
Also a High Hand which is really nice with a beautifull Mylar job and a Super Straight ( tbd ) with a European urethane coat, me thinks will play nice too!
-
2" flippers are a different game altogether.. takes more skill to play a game with these. 3" was introduced to make game play easier. GTB made many great games with 2" flippers but sooo many have the GTB void which is the large gap between the flippers and it really does ruin a great game somewhat. Williams, once they cottoned onto the notion of NOT having impulse flippers made some of the greatest 2" flipper games there is. If you can get hold of a WMS 60;s game with 2" flippers ( reverse wedgehead) you will have one of the best playing games around.. theres a PALOOKA that's been floating on Ebay.. its a little overpriced for market value but for playability its actually cheap compared to what a GTB will command.. fast game, 2" flippers with narrow gap and drop targets. Ive owned one and I do regret selling it.
2001 is a great game and SHOULD play very well.. tune it up so the bumpers/ slings are sensitive.. rebuild the flippers etc.. no need to go to high tap as that's the lazy restorers way of making a game play faster. If you can tune it to factory release ( which is how it would have been intended to play), youll have a very different game. Id love to own a 2001.. it would suit my line up no end. Its like having a great looking car that hasn't had the engine tuned.. you have to fine tune an EM
-
The cycle is now complete. I am proud to announce that my holy grail is in her daddies arms. Surf Champ in the house!!!!!!!!!!!! $#$
Arrived one day after my PPCR get together ( oh well ) so took it to Joes at KJWHF and set her up for the monday night boys to give her a whirl. Many good responses and some real appreciation for the old girl and Nino's expertise. Here are some pictures and people now understand why I didn't get the cabinet re-painted,
simply beautifully original and well maintained. Thanks Nino, truly stoked.
-
2 more
-
beautiful game, I can imagine how stoked you are to have the grail pin home.
-
I'm pleased the new owner is happy and it arrived safe and sound. I hope you guys enjoy playing the machine as much as I enjoyed restoring it ^^^
-
That's me having a game. :)
Very nice Nino.
I've said it before and I'll say it again "Love your work".
-
I didn't expect anything less from you Mini. Awesome restoration once again
-
Very nice ^^^
-
Update, I can't stop playing this beautifull game. The simple things in life are often the best. Everyone needs at least one EM in your collection. This is my fourth but by far the best.
-
Glad to hear my friends out West are enjoying the game - Was worth the extra hard yards ^^^
-
Andy, glad you have your baby home. Have not found pin balls in Finland.
Chris
-
Andy, glad you have your baby home. Have not found pin balls in Finland.
Chris
Thanks man, lots of pins in Perth and warmer too! *%*
You are welcome to pop round and play her when your back home, stay safe.
BBB
-
This game is killer and I introduced a few more guys to the love of EM's ( when done well ) They all commented on Nino's skills and just might contact you in the future. This game is copping a flogging and holding up real well.
AWESOME, best game ever. ^^^
SHARE THE STOKE
-
Thanks for the compliments !
Yes - I already have TWO EM Restores from WA that I'm be starting after the two I'm currently working on progress further. You are correct - once they are reconditioned or restored correctly, they are a blast to play and also increase the interest of new players.
-
Yes - I already have TWO EM Restores from WA that I'm be starting after the two I'm currently working on progress further.
$#$ $#$ $#$
-
FYI, still going strong and loving her sick. BEST GAME EVER!
Yes I played myself and I won #*#
-
Glad to hear you are enjoying your Holy Grail machine Andy !
Just remembering early days when we had some setbacks, and there was a delay. Was worth it in the end !
-
Congratulations to you both Nino forms machine well done and Andy for adding a ripper new machine