The Aussie Pinball Arcade

Aussie Pinball Forums => Restorations => Topic started by: Strangeways on August 27, 2016, 12:45:20 AM

Title: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on August 27, 2016, 12:45:20 AM
This game has been in the Restoration queue for a LONG TIME. I did start it a while ago, and it is slowly coming together. It starts off as a standard Container pin with a view to Restore it as a "Nearly In Box" Restoration wit ha twist - A "Black Version"

Objective

This machine needs new cab art. The new owner wants a BLACK version of the artwork, a perfectly clearcoated playfield with several toys and add ons that just keep growing. Latest addition will be a Colour DMD. This game will certainly be a "one of a kind".

Condition report

Cabinet - 4/10 - Not presentable. Lots of scratches, divots and accidents all over the headbox.
Playfield - 8/10 - Considerable wear around the outholes
Electronics - 5/10 - A few hacks and signs of poor maintenance.


The Starting point


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20002.jpg)


Headbox has had some accidnets ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20005.jpg)


Wear around the outholes


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20011.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20012.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20013.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20020.jpg)


Here is where things interesting. Since we already know the playfield needs to be completely stripped, we need to label every wite, part and lamp socket. Along the way, many parts are founds that are wrong, broken or worn. I take hundreds of photos of every game - even if I've done the same title many times over. In the photo below, the kicker assembly is worn, rusted and has some running repairs. The spring is also the wrong tension.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20034.jpg)


Every coil is labelled ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20037.jpg)


Interesting new mounting holes !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20040.jpg)


Targets have taken a belting !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20045.jpg)


Every post and mini post is measured and recorded ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20049.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20050.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20086.jpg)


Broken plastics - While this title was in the Q, the plastics were released by CPR.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20074.jpg)


Outhole damage ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20075.jpg)


Board Hacks - Typical areas around the power supply. GI connector also fried..


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20088.jpg)


More labels !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20117.jpg)


Front of the cabinet is a bit rough.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20164.jpg)


Stripped cabinet. Ready to be stripped back and repainted.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20179.jpg)


Headbox..


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20181.jpg)


So here is the plan..

Playfield goes across to Tim at HRP for general refresh and clearcoat to the highest standard. The cabinet also heads across to be repaired and restored by Stu. Legs and fittings will be powdercoated. Modern Stern siderails will be powdercoated to the "stern LE" standard..

Meanwhile a TON of boxes of mods, enhancements and toys arrive..  @@^
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: 4_amusement_only on August 27, 2016, 02:36:30 AM
Wow, resto work is flying along! Good stuff and using tim and Stu really expedites the process
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: oldskool1969 on August 27, 2016, 09:10:21 AM
I think you were too kind on condition report, what a stinker.  @.@
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Cursed on August 27, 2016, 10:47:45 AM
Wow, keen to see how this turns out.

Love the 'black' version idea. Will look much better..... ^^^
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on August 27, 2016, 11:25:44 AM
I think you were too kind on condition report, what a stinker.  @.@


I have another Star Wars that is far worse  %.%
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Crashramp on August 28, 2016, 07:18:02 AM
I think you were too kind on condition report, what a stinker.  @.@


I have another Star Wars that is far worse  %.%

I can't argue with oldskool, this one was a turd. Looking forward to seeing how it's turned out.

Great to see some more resto threads too.  ^^^
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: RPZ on August 28, 2016, 04:15:16 PM
Looking forward to seeing the finished product! :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on August 29, 2016, 10:58:43 PM
I purchased the BLACK version of the decals quite some time ago. For a short time, we looked at a completely new cabinet, but this cabinet was too good to trash. Due to the massive backlog I have at the moment, the idea came about to have Tim and Stu work on the cab. What a masterstroke that was !

After a short time, the call came through from Tim and Stu that the playfield and cabinet were completed. I had requested a "High End" cabinet refurbishment with the decals I had provided. I picked to the cabinet and playfield last week.

Before I left, We packed the cabinet for the trip back to Thomastown. It was raining when I left Thomastown. When I arrived in Geelong, it was like a summer's day - Until a hail storm came from nowhere. So I didn't want to take the risk. The cabinet was packed and even though it was under a tarp in the ute, I didn't want a drop of rain on it !

SAFE and SOUND in the workshop - Finally !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20188.jpg)


The artwork "pops" and it is difficult to photograph - It has a lot of depth with the BLACK background, and the red just pops out at you !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20198.jpg)


Here are the powdercoated legs to match the cabinet. We were looking at a 2 PAC black, but this is a much better and durable finish. The door, door housing and headbox brackets are all with the same finish ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20197.jpg)


Some BLING photos ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20200.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20207.jpg)


The siderails are new Stern siderails as per the latest LEs. Impressed with the KISS LE siderails, I though we would try that finish - and it turned out great.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20204.jpg)


As I've mentioned a few times, APR have worked closely on a number of projects with HRP. This is another amazing result with a "risky" artwork package, but it turned out absolutely amazing. What these guys can do with cabinets etc is simply amazing. So ALL the credit for this amazing milestone in the project needs to go their way.

 ^^^
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: KBRI1700 on August 29, 2016, 11:23:22 PM
The cabinet looks truly menacing, defying you to come and play.  !*!


 
Title: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: GORGAR 1 on August 30, 2016, 07:47:13 AM
Awesome :)
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: pinnies4me on August 30, 2016, 01:38:27 PM

Wow! That does look a treat!
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Cursed on August 30, 2016, 07:28:46 PM
That looks awesome! Soooooo nice in black.  ^^^
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on September 01, 2016, 01:58:50 AM
That looks way better I never understood the blue cabinet
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Boots on September 01, 2016, 11:16:16 AM
That looks way better I never understood the blue cabinet

The black looks good but I actually like the contrast that the blue cab gives the machine.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: 4_amusement_only on September 01, 2016, 05:17:03 PM
Blue stands out more in a crowded arcade.

Looks fantastic, owner is going to be thrilled
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on September 02, 2016, 09:42:51 AM
Black VS Blue

Those that have seen the cabinet in Black have been impressed. It has been renamed "The Dark Side of the Force"  ^&(
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: coon82 on September 02, 2016, 02:26:14 PM
What a great idea. It looks awesome.

Like the new trademark too.  ()
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on September 03, 2016, 12:19:53 PM
Playfield has been touched up and clearcoated by Tim and Stu at HRP. There were some repairs to inserts etc - All the normal aspects of a tired playfield that have been restored. The result is exactly what you would expect - simply the best that is available anywhere. Pictures don't do it justice.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20192.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20195.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20194.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20193.jpg)


I might try to take some shots with better lighting.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Mr Pinbologist on September 03, 2016, 03:54:08 PM
Awesome work so far Nino (as per usual)  ^^^ ^^^

The cab does look great having been done black instead of blue  *%* *%*
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on September 11, 2016, 10:19:52 PM
Awesome work so far Nino (as per usual)  ^^^ ^^^

The cab does look great having been done black instead of blue  *%* *%*

I now have to do another TWO "Dark side of the force" restorations  #*#
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: KBRI1700 on September 12, 2016, 12:40:27 AM
Data East Star Wars - Pop Caps

Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on June 11, 2017, 10:07:45 PM
All the mods and add ons have arrived over time. Bench full of them, and the biggest one (topper) isn't in the photos !

(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20210_resize.jpg)


On to the playfield rebuild. All the parts are sorted and the broken, missing or worn are identified for replacement or repair.

(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20211_resize.jpg)

(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20232_resize.jpg)

(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20237_resize.jpg)


All the parts are cleaned, washed, polished and tumbled !


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20253_resize.jpg)


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20254_resize.jpg)


Even the head locking assembly is polished !


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20255_resize.jpg)


Pop Bumpers rebuilt ;


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20265_resize.jpg)


New Target kits need to be assembled ;

(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20270_resize.jpg)


Mechanism rebuilt - new switches in this example ;


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20271_resize.jpg)


All the #44 sockets needed to be replaced ;


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20267_resize.jpg)


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20291_resize.jpg)


Even the sockets on top of the playfield !


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20273_resize.jpg)


Playfield underneath is almost done !


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20280_resize.jpg)

(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20282_resize.jpg)

(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20283_resize.jpg)


New EMI Filter, power cable etc ..


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20286_resize.jpg)


Topside is also coming along nicely !


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20288_resize.jpg)


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20287_resize.jpg)


(http://www.australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20289_resize.jpg)


Next Update - Playfield done !
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on June 12, 2017, 06:30:29 AM
Looking good mate


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: KBRI1700 on June 12, 2017, 08:30:32 PM

 ^^^


Looking very nice!
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on June 12, 2017, 09:17:22 PM
More progress pictures. Really enjoy this part of the job, as all the planning, ordering, plating, painting all come together.

CPR Plastic set is a very nice addition - great timing for this restoration.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20293_resize.jpg)

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20294_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20295_resize.jpg)

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20296_resize.jpg)

I love the blue plastic protectors in the photo below.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20298_resize.jpg)

Standard clear plastic protectors on the Death Star entrance. I've never seen an unbroken set !

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20300_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20301_resize.jpg)


Will be moving on to complete the mechanisms under the playfield. Tim's plater has the metal ramps ready so hopefully they will be here this week. In the meantime, the boards will be refurbished, and I have some plans for the headbox lamp insert panel. There are some VERY cool mods going on the game, so the ones that I can install, will be done.

I'm very pleased with the puzzle as it comes together !
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on June 15, 2017, 10:07:26 PM
Parts that we replaced along the way ;

The ball trough mechanism ;

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20215_resize.jpg)

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20313_resize.jpg)


Death Star Target ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20237_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20321_resize.jpg)


Ball launch bracket was a butchered old bracket - so in goes the new replacement ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20312_resize.jpg)


Then the apron is installed


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20319_resize.jpg)


and a bling shot of the remainder of the playfield.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20302_resize.jpg)


Currently, the boards have been refurbished and the speaker panel with interesting upgrades is almost done.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: onetaste on June 30, 2017, 12:37:26 AM
Incredible resurrection, Nino! Make sure you put in the updated custom roms. Vast improvement over the original gameplay.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: pinnies4me on July 07, 2017, 01:27:21 PM
Looks fantastic mate!


Incredible resurrection, Nino! Make sure you put in the updated custom roms. Vast improvement over the original gameplay.

I regret selling the one I had before those came out. I have the updated JP rom in that game, and now it is close to and in many cases exceeds the rules and gameplay of many B/W games of the era.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on November 16, 2017, 01:22:04 PM
On the home stretch with this amazing transformation. The aim now is to have the game 100% working with the factory setup, then move to the mods and some custom mods that I think, will really set off the finished game.

Whilst working on the game, the colour LED display was released, and along with the speaker light kit and Flipper Fidelity speakers, it is going to be a busy speaker panel. After doing some research, the speaker panel and apron can be clearcoated, but with risks and there's no long term guarantee that it will last. So Tim advised of an awesome product called "Auto Glym". VERY expensive, but it gives the plastic parts the appearance of being cleared.

Before we start, clean the speaker panel, and mask off areas we don't want the product to be sprayed on ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20346_resize.jpg)

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20348_resize.jpg)

First pass - spray on, leave for 5 minutes, then buff off ;

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20349_resize.jpg)


I followed the application process four times, and here's the result ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20359_resize.jpg)


Mount the LED Display ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20361_resize.jpg)


Speaker panel installed ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20362_resize.jpg)


Apron - Same process ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20363_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20319_resize.jpg)


Metal Ramp - This was a VERY long saga. Can't be chrome plated, better off polishing. Needed to be TIG welded and then back for more polishing and a stainless ramp flap. Looks awesome.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20368_resize.jpg)


Upper playfield ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20367_resize.jpg)


Can't wait to see the finish line !


Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: 4_amusement_only on November 17, 2017, 03:51:41 AM
Looks great. Been using Autoglym for years on the cars etc. Their 'Bumper and Trim' gel is good for lasting shine on decal/ screen printed cabinets
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Crashramp on November 19, 2017, 10:14:33 PM
Looks stunning Nino.  ^^^   Makes me want to get started on restoring mine.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 09, 2017, 03:08:30 PM
On the home stretch with this project, and I had a few issues with the original DMD controller AND the Video ROMs being corrupt. But that was quickly sorted out. The Color LED display is awesome. I really like it - suits the game perfectly.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20406_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20387.jpg)


The Translite looks great in the Darker theme of the game, but I know there's a different translite to go into the machine once it is in it's new home.


One of the hurdles was R2D2's helmet. The game had a chrome finish, but looking at various movie stills, it should be a flat grey. So I ended up spraying it with a chrome paint, designed for metal, and then polishing it. The results were better than expected !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20378_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20380_resize.jpg)


Now for some play testing before adding the rest of the mods ;


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20381_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20404_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20389_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20405_resize.jpg)


So far, after some teething issues, it plays well above my expectations. What a GREAT machine to play !

Next installment will be the Topper (which is AWESOME) and the Pinsound board, which is an interesting project of it's own !
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Pinballer on December 09, 2017, 08:57:51 PM
Great work Nino. Please do an in depth thread on the setup of the Pinsound board and a video too, if you can.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 14, 2017, 05:56:03 PM
Great work Nino. Please do an in depth thread on the setup of the Pinsound board and a video too, if you can.

Pinsound has been interesting. Had some issues, now solved. All I can say is Pinsound is absolutely amazing.. Will do a review for sure.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Cursed on December 14, 2017, 06:35:59 PM
Holy crap that looks amazing!

Fantastic work Nino and thanks as always for sharing these restores.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 14, 2017, 09:12:24 PM
Holy crap that looks amazing!

Fantastic work Nino and thanks as always for sharing these restores.


Thanks for the kind words Michael, but I can't take all the credit. Timbo and Stu did an amazing job with the cabinet and playfield. The new owner gave me the opportunity to do something a bit different, and he added a lot of ideas and mods into the finished game. It is basically finished, other than one or two more finishing touches. There will be plenty of photos to finish off this thread.

I share my restorations, as watching other skillful part timers, hobbyists and professionals do similar work is inspiring and motivates me to share experiences and tips I've learnt along my journey.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on December 14, 2017, 09:16:11 PM
Not sure how this will work - This is a 160MB video of the game in test mode, after adding most of the mods ;

https://onedrive.live.com/?cid=4291B9E0AF27162B&id=4291B9E0AF27162B%213026&parId=4291B9E0AF27162B%212854&o=OneUp (https://onedrive.live.com/?cid=4291B9E0AF27162B&id=4291B9E0AF27162B%213026&parId=4291B9E0AF27162B%212854&o=OneUp)

Enjoy !
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: oldskool1969 on December 14, 2017, 09:28:53 PM
" Shoot the Death Star"
very nice
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: DSB on December 18, 2017, 11:34:45 PM

Nice!

Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 17, 2018, 10:17:28 PM
While testing the machine, the motor for R2-D2 decided to die. I have a proto DE Star Wars, so I thought I'd use that to isolate the problem, and it too is broken (it works, just the mounting tab is completely broken off).

Usually, it is always "good news" posted on threads, but this time, at the point of 99% complete and tested - Well at least it crapped itself with me and not the new owner. So I've ordered a new motor, and also a new motor for the Death Star - The new owner has been more than patient, so I think it is the right thing to do !

Also throwing in a set of NINJA Balls.. As if the game needs any more bling !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20426_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20427_resize.jpg)


There are three toys that I've mounted to the playfield - none are in the way of playfield lights etc. I think they look AWESOME.

When booting the game, the Pinsound board starts the Star Wars entrance theme, and the power of the sub woofer makes Darth Vader's ship move with the bass. I love it !


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20421_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20420_resize.jpg)


Nearly there ..  :D :D :D :D :D :D
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: ddstoys on January 18, 2018, 03:16:06 AM
Looks unreal I think I have new motors here if it will speed things up


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: pinnies4me on January 18, 2018, 01:15:43 PM
Outstanding, makes me wish I'd kept mine and updated to the new ROM.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Crashramp on January 18, 2018, 06:09:05 PM
That really looks amazing Nino, love your work!   ^^^
Title: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Flynnyfalcon on January 20, 2018, 01:03:41 AM
Saw this in person a week ago. Looks absolutely awesome. Incredible detail down to the polished nuts. The owner is going to absolutely rapt. Awesome work Nino.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on January 21, 2018, 11:07:38 PM
Looks unreal I think I have new motors here if it will speed things up


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks for the offer mate - I ordered several new motors to keep for the other Star Wars that have broken motors.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on April 04, 2018, 11:14:38 PM
Just a quick update on this restoration. Motors arrived and installed. Testing the game I noticed that the +12V that the topper draws is affecting the Pinsound board with a Rottendog Power Supply. After a LOT of testing with this unique configuration, we have found that it is easier to draw the 12V from the 18V flasher circuit off the Power Supply. So the 12VDC is not affected by the Pinsound board. The booster is available on the Pinsound site ;

https://www.pinsound.org/shop/index.php?id_product=41&controller=product&id_lang=1 (https://www.pinsound.org/shop/index.php?id_product=41&controller=product&id_lang=1)
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: ktm450 on April 05, 2018, 05:12:07 PM
Missed this thread, looks amazing, very nice work mate  ^^^
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: 4_amusement_only on April 07, 2018, 12:10:18 AM
 It sounds like what usually happens when one modifies from the original design - problems causing more problems. Will this additional testing and fixing of modded components ultimately cost more to the client or have you just absorbed it? Still willing to take on modified restos in the future or more apprehensive?
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on April 08, 2018, 11:54:25 AM
It sounds like what usually happens when one modifies from the original design - problems causing more problems. Will this additional testing and fixing of modded components ultimately cost more to the client or have you just absorbed it? Still willing to take on modified restos in the future or more apprehensive?

Mods are not part of the pricing or absorbed into the initial cost of the machine. This machine has had a number of mods that have significantly affected the stability of the machine. My process is to have the game 100% working and stable before adding any mods. I then will add a mod and then test. If there's an issue, I need to rectify. and then move on to the next mod. In this case, there were issues with the Pinsound (factory issues) that took a while to rectify. The factory power supply had an unstable +%5 with all the mods. The replacement Rottendog +12V could not even run the Pinsound with the Topper installed. The +12V runs the colour DMD, speaker panel lights, topper and Pinsound. So even adding one mod can cause an issue, but adding 4 mods just is not going to work. Not even a dedicated power supply providing +12V directly to the Pinsound will work, as you need the +5V from the Game's power supply - not the external. So it gets really complicated. For this reason, the decision was made to use the +18V for the Pinsound board as the voltage will be rectified to +12V.

If I ever had to do the same configuration, it would be easier as a lot of the process on this game simply has never been done on another game. But I've kept a diary on the process. This is a "one of a kind" game which several collector's have commented that it looks far better than the new Stern Star Wars.

I have several more games with similar mods in the pipeline. I'm happy to install the mods, but the time I spend on them is a separate cost.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: 4_amusement_only on April 09, 2018, 03:06:50 PM
Far out, sounds more difficult than the actual resto.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on May 22, 2018, 07:32:49 PM
At the end of the road for this restoration. Before the final update and pictures, here's a breakdown of the technical sides of things. The hardest part of the resto was to find the right balance of mods. This is the heaviest modded machine I've done, and there was a lot of time, effort and troubleshooting. The main issue was the 12V line. It was hogged by the colour DMD, speaker panel LEDs, OCD PCB, Topper and the Pinsound board. Researching the issues had me following a number of possible solutions, and one was to install an independent Power Supply JUST for the pinsound. That didn't work, as you still need the +5V from the machine's power supply. The factory Power Supply simply could not handle the load as it was - and you HAVE TO use the +5v from the PSU. It will not work from an external source. The 12V circuitry on the pinsound board gives us a clue, and it is possible to use the +18V from the power supply. The clever guys at Pinsound must have known this, as they had a "booster" cable that tapped into the 18V line. The Rottendog power supply was left in the game, and the Pinsound board and the speaker LEDs could be run from the booster cable. Now we have PERFECT sound. Beforehand, the sound was cutting out and the interactive topper was causing issues. Now it is all perfect.

So there's a LOT going on in the headbox, as per the photos. Cable management is not perfect yet, but it is getting there..
NV RAM installed and the latest ROM. Custom sound package. Very busy in the headbox.


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20536_resize.jpg)

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20538_resize.jpg)

Under the hood ;

Everything is rebuilt and I had to replace the lamp sockets in some areas and rewire some sections. Overall, very happy.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20504_resize.jpg)

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20505_resize.jpg)

New flipper coils and kits mandatory for this level of restoration.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20512_resize.jpg)
Mains inlet section rebuilt with new, stronger fuse holders. Cleaned up the cover and installed a new warning label !
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on May 22, 2018, 07:43:45 PM
A couple of ideas that we ended up using ;
Stern Siderails - We had them powdercoated black, along with the door, legs and lockdown bar. I had to slightly modify the cabinet to accommodate the siderails. Very pleased with the result. The screws I used are factory Torx screws which are difficult and expensive to source.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20492_resize.jpg)

I used the Mantis cabinet protectors ( concealed ) - and they installed easy and are thicker than other metal protectors. Not a hope in hell for the legs to get near the cabinet.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20437_resize.jpg)

Here is a more detailed photo of the clearance, and I also used red leg bolt washers with original repro style Data East Legbolts.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20495_resize.jpg)

Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on May 22, 2018, 07:54:26 PM
Here is the game on test. At this point, everything is activated and the game is play tested. I ended up having the game on for 3 days straight - 12 hours. Played a game or two every break, and the only issue I had to deal with was the kickback switch.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20434_resize.jpg)

Pleas note - This is the factory translite - it is NOT the translite that will be installed in the game once the owner has received it. It has a hole in the middle. Redirect your attention to the topper. It is simply stunning !

Here are a couple of bling photos outside - the only 15 minutes of sunshine in 2 weeks - so sorry if they seem repetitive. Notice the side mirrors are not installed - that will be the last thing I do before packing it for delivery.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20443_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20447_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20451_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20453_resize.jpg)

The three custom toys I installed - Darth Vader's ship, and X-Wing Fighter and the other ship..

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20453_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20456_resize.jpg)

Pop Bumpers with custom art ;

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20464_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20465_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20470_resize.jpg)



Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on May 22, 2018, 08:04:27 PM
Fast Forward to yesterday.. This is how you pack a high end restoration.

Rubber foam to protect the headbox from the siderails. Cardboard to protect the new playfield glass. Plastic wrap the entire machine - every centimeter. Use heavy tape to affix a cardbox bade so you can stand the game on it's end. Use heavy duty bubble wrap. Then more plastic wrap and then more tape. Then use an old Stern factory box. Perfect fit ! Use the cardboard leg boxes. Fill with foam and anything else you can find to protect the game..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20549_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20552_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20554_resize.jpg)
Last but not least, I strap the cardboard box up and then affix shipment details. The Removalist turns up, and gets the surprise of his life. This is how it should be done !
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on May 22, 2018, 08:14:06 PM
I have had a lot of positive feedback on the game as I was working on it, and one of the mods was the OCD lighting kit. I have never really researched the OCD lighting kits out there, so after installation, I didn't notice anything different. I honestly didn't know what all the fuss was about. So I went about playing the game without noticing anything different. Then a customer popped in to pick up parts, and he saw the game in attract mode, and the FIRST thing he said was "How cool does that OCD LED Kit look".. My reply - "Yea, nice, isn't it.."



 :D :D %.% %.%



But it looks AMAZING all lit up and now with mirror blades. These were installed last, and here's a tip - ALWAYS leave them LAST. I have been raising and lowering the playfield for a while, and noticed scratches along the right side. BEFORE installing the mirror blades, I has a look at the area, and it was easy to see what was causing the problem - the metal guide located at the botton left and right sides of the playfield (a "slider"), was offset in the factory. So I removed it, and grinded back 2-3 mm - which made all the difference. Once I saw clearance between the playfield sides and the walls of the cabinet, I dropped it in for the last time.

(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20516_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20518_resize.jpg)


(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20519_resize.jpg)



(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20523_resize.jpg)

Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on May 22, 2018, 08:24:44 PM
Final bling photos.

First - I'd like to acknowledge the patience of the new owner. This is one of many games that has taken too long, but as I say to all pinheads waiting for their machine - "it will be worth the wait".
Second - Thanks to Tim and Stu for the cabinet and playfield work. This would not have the finish that it does now without your help.
Last - This is the best resto I've ever done. Thanks to the new owner who directed the project in this direction, it allowed me to put all my skills and patience to the test.


Completed game ;



(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20546_resize.jpg)






(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20541_resize.jpg)




(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20452_resize.jpg)






(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20461_resize.jpg)





(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20444_resize.jpg)






(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/StarWars/Star%20Wars%20491_resize.jpg)


Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Pinballer on May 23, 2018, 04:00:38 AM
Excellent work Nino, well done!
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: 4_amusement_only on May 23, 2018, 04:11:14 AM
Looks great, well done
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: ktm450 on May 23, 2018, 11:02:25 AM
WOW! Beautiful game, very nice work mate!
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: pinnies4me on May 23, 2018, 11:29:58 AM
Beautiful!
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Crashramp on May 23, 2018, 08:37:23 PM
Wow that’s stunning, I wish mine looked like that. Great work.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: shaneo on May 30, 2018, 11:59:07 PM
I got to play this last Mon.
Looks incredible, plays incredible, it's got the colour, the sound, light show is awesome, and it really hooks into that era of SW.
I recall the day the owner ordered it. A couple of us laughed but not now.
Could not have gone to to a better bloke. Congrats to him.
Title: Re: Data East Star Wars High End Restoration
Post by: Strangeways on May 31, 2018, 09:39:59 AM
I got to play this last Mon.
Looks incredible, plays incredible, it's got the colour, the sound, light show is awesome, and it really hooks into that era of SW.
I recall the day the owner ordered it. A couple of us laughed but not now.
Could not have gone to to a better bloke. Congrats to him.

Thank You for the kind words. "Could not have gone to a better bloke" - add the words "and patient" - but like I say to everyone - "it will be worth the wait".