The Aussie Pinball Arcade
Aussie Pinball Forums => Restorations => Topic started by: Strangeways on December 31, 2017, 10:55:20 PM
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A collector that I've done a couple machines - just standard restorations, has taken the plunge with his "Holy Grail" - The Bally Dr Who. Much underrated title. Similar to the Addams I'm doing, this is a "NIB" (Nearly In Box) Restoration.
Condition report
Cabinet - Not too bad, but we are using the skills of Tim and Stu to make a new cabinet.
Playfield - 8/10 - A VERY nice example. Again, off to Tim for a Clearcoat.
Electronics - 8/10 - Honest boardset. No major dramas.
This is another long term project that has taken quite some time to gather all the necessary components to ensure the NIB standard we pride ourselves on. The ramps will be replaced with the Starship Fantasy Ramp Set. Colour DMD will be used and some more additional items as we progress.
Before pictures and teardown
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20001_resize.jpg)
OK Cabinet - But we are having a new one made for this restoration. But we will re purpose this cabinet for another project..
Playfield is removed as the cabinet had to be sent to Tim for final measurements on the new cabinet. So I have a bit of time to strip the playfield. Given I lost all my teardown pictures of the other Dr Who games I've done, I needed to document the process again.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20021_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20022_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20023_resize.jpg)
The inserts in front of the time expander are ALWAYS a problem with significant wear. They are often sunken, or have the clear completely chipped out. Not this game. The playfield is excellent.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20025_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20026_resize.jpg)
Time Expander mini pf is in really good shape.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20029_resize.jpg)
Filthy !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20043_resize.jpg)
Under the playfield - REALLY good condition.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20044_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20047_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20066_resize.jpg)
I get asked this question A LOT - "how do you know where things go when you reassemble ? " - I take HUNDREDS of photos, of every angle, and measure out all the spacers etc.. The caliper comes in handy for this process. Patience and good record keeping provides a good reference. The only exception is Addams Family. I've done that many, I know where everything goes without photos !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20083_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20126_resize.jpg)
Here is my left handed screwdriver, next to my right handed screwdriver..
One for 1/4 hex heads and the other is a phillips head.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20152_resize.jpg)
Just the cable management parts left to remove.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20189_resize.jpg)
Every single mech is reordered, rebuilt and then refitted.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20200_resize.jpg)
All the parts are cleaned in the ultrasonic, and then tumbled first in a rough media tumbler and then for a final polish in a finer grade media tumbler. Anything worn or broken, is replaced.
While this is happening, look what arrives - The new cabinet, courtesy of Tim and Stu..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20235_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20238_resize.jpg)
Just LOOK at those colours !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20236_resize.jpg)
Stay tuned !
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Maybe my comment in as conflict of interest && but I'm really looking forward to this thread unfold. The pictures of the cabinet don't do it justice *.* () ^^^
:pinball:
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Way behind updates on this restoration.
I need to finish off the cabinet so I can concentrate on the playfield returned from @el_timbo86 (http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?action=profile;u=772) . The decision was made to install the Mantis Cabinet protectors, which are the recommended cabinet protectors I use for High End Games. Nothing wrong with alternatives, but these are exceptional in quality. First, I want to install the Ground braid. I've covered this in the Addams Family thread, so here is this cabinet completed ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20244_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20245_resize.jpg)
I decided to that the ground braid should go behind the brackets, even though this is not what they did in the factory, I've seen enough broken braid to suggest this is a better method.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20257_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20254_resize.jpg)
Ground braid and leg brackets done.
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Here are some of the new cabinet parts installed, or are about to be installed. I don't muck around with the original parts on some restorations, opting to use new parts and use my time in other aspects of the restoration.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20240_resize.jpg)
A more recent development is the use of metal cabinet protectors. They effectively can replace Pincabs or felt leg protectors. The idea here is to protect the Cabinet - not the legs. I've used most metal protectors on the market, but I much prefer the Mantis version, as it is thicker and has four mounting holes. The other advantage is that they have a polished edge.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20246_resize.jpg)
3mm Thick. The thickest protector I've seen.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20247_resize.jpg)
They are EASY to install. First - position them with clearance through the cabinet leg bolt holes.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20248_resize.jpg)
Pre Drill the first hole ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20250_resize.jpg)
Screw the first wood screw in position, but do not tighten
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20251_resize.jpg)
Ensure both bolts are easily installed and removed by hand.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20252_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20256_resize.jpg)
Drill one hole on the opposite side of the protector and tighten both screws into the cabinet. Once everything is set up correctly, measure the distance between the bottom of the cabinet and the metal protector.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20260_resize.jpg)
Transfer that to the other side..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20261_resize.jpg)
Follow the same procedure as the first protector..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20262_resize.jpg)
Then follow the same procedure as the rear - although the distance from the bottom of the cabinet will be different.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20263_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20264_resize.jpg)
Next update - playfield..
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Overdue update.
I like to be working on several restorations so I can do work in batches. This time, this update will concentrate on the finer details of the playfield underside - in particular the Zinc Plating that I've been doing in-house for years with success.
The power box has a zinc plated galvanized finished which is practical but looks out of place on a High End Restoration. I thought I'd try something new and attempt to plate the power box and also the power cable box located on the rear panel. So here is the starting point ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20265_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20266_resize.jpg)
The two items are put aside and prepped with a lot of other parts for different games that I will Zinc Plate. Here is the 30 Liter tub of magical solution busy at work in mt chemical laboratory..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20270_resize.jpg)
After plating, here are the results ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20277_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20279_resize.jpg)
Re assembly ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20280_resize.jpg)
More plating during this session ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20285_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20287_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20288_resize.jpg)
The DR Who VUK Assembly ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20289_resize.jpg)
The "Time Expander" assembly looks completely different after plating ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20300_resize.jpg)
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Moving on to the FIRST job on the upper playfield - while it is still completely blank - installing the Pop Bumper screws ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20293_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20297_resize.jpg)
Then all the underside plated parts are installed ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20302_resize.jpg)
The cable clamps and even the screws are new.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20303_resize.jpg)
Underside is coming together nicely ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20304_resize.jpg)
All of the lamp sockets are replaced - They Look great after a session in the ultrasonic cleaner, but I'm still not happy, so they are all replaced. The loom itslef looks brand new.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20305_resize.jpg)
Apologies for slow updates - more coming in the next day or two !
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Wow, that is coming up really nicely Nino. Finished product is going to be very special.
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Very Nice!
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Updates are well behind progress.. *%*
Even though the ultrasonic did really well to clean the lamp sockets, it was always the plan to replace them. I install the #47 sockets temporarily so I can route the GI wiring loom into correct position. No matter what the condition, I like to replace them. Here's why ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20310_resize.jpg)
Fair enough - it is a close up photo - but you can see the corrosion is more than superficial, and if you look closely, it is almost a short..
They are CHEAP and will save you hassles in the future !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20306_resize.jpg)
.. and they look neater !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20311_resize.jpg)
Digressing to the mini playfield - it is time to assemble the top of the Time Expander with the plated, re-grained or replacement parts ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20308_resize.jpg)
Cliffy's installed - which are MANDATORY for the Time Expander.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20327_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20328_resize.jpg)
The VUK's are placed into position.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20342_resize.jpg)
.. and we are done for the moment !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20341_resize.jpg)
:D
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I continually find things I'm not happy with. If I'm not happy, then it is simply not good enough.. I don't like the target bank on the RHS - it looks "tacky" with the beer seal behind the targets.. So time to disassemble and this was justified as the rear of the bracket was corroded ! How ? I have no idea..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20322_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20323_resize.jpg)
Removed from the switch matrix harness..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20326_resize.jpg)
Replated - looks HEAPS better ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20332_resize.jpg)
Re-assembled with machine screws - not rivets. So if for some reason one target leans like the Tower of Pisa, it can be adjusted.. Also, that ugly beer seal is gone and I've used the singular target pads as it looks HEAPS better.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20335_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20336_resize.jpg)
Now I can move on with installing more plated parts within the switch matrix loom..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20339_resize.jpg)
Even the Pop Bumper switch brackets are re-plated. Why ? They look better and if I need to order new ones I have to wait. So I plate them in the morning, installed by the afternoon.. The one on the RHS is plated the one the LHS is corroded..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20346_resize.jpg)
But this is "time consuming".. I don't like "furry" metal. Heavy Metal ? Yes - loud in the background !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20344_resize.jpg)
The trough switch plate. Re-plated..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20349_resize.jpg)
Even the switch assemblies !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20350_resize.jpg)
That's all for this update !
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Looks amazing Nino. Wish ours was that nice.
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Excellent work Nino. You seem to have the plating process down to a fine art.
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Awesome plating work. Its almost a hobby on its own from my experience.
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Awesome plating work. Its almost a hobby on its own from my experience.
I've been using the same process for 10 years or more, and now I can plate just about anything. Given commercial platers don't use Zinc baths any longer in favor on Nickel, I like to keep the process authentic. It is still a buzz to remove an old part from the bath looking better than the day it was manufactured. That's in line with my way of thinking when doing high end jobs.
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Wow that metal plating looks super impressive, Awesome resto.
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Going back a few steps to the teardown stage just to show how filthy the subway ramp was. It was removed, stripped and placed in the Ultrasonic cleaner, but it was always going to be replaced.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20059_resize.jpg)
Rusted panel will be removed and replated.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20312_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20313_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20317_resize.jpg)
All the metal parts have been cleaned and replated. Ready for assembly on to the new subway Ramp.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20367_resize.jpg)
Completed subway - a HUGE difference !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20370_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20371_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20372_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20373_resize.jpg)
Of course - it is not seen, but that's not the point. Ignore the wiring - there's still some work to do once I have added more completed sections of the playfield.
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Of course the topside of the playfield is coming along a bit slower, as I like to have the underside done perfectly so I can fit into the cabinet.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20353_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20354_resize.jpg)
Tim did an amazing job with this playfield. #*#
Even the switch brackets are replated. This DOES look like overkill, but the process of loading into the ultrasonic, with other parts, and then stripping the old plating, with other parts, and then just dropping them into the plating bath, with other parts - Not a big deal..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20355_resize.jpg)
The coils are tested and coils outside their correct resistance are thrown in the bin. The good ones are cleaned. I do this by hand with Simple Green. Took 5 minutes with a toothbrush and sometimes a brass brush - big difference !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20356_resize.jpg)
Other coils are cleaned using the same process. Flipper coils are discarded as I will be using new coils. These are the coils for a couple game - not just Dr Who..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20361_resize.jpg)
Replated brackets and new parts. Moving parts are almost always new.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20363_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20364_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20365_resize.jpg)
Installed into the game ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20374_resize.jpg)
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Back to the VUK - which gets a POUNDING in this game. All orbit shots to the pop bumpers can either be deflected back into the main playfield, or predominantly drain into the VUK. All skillshots plunge into the VUK. All balls during multiball that hit Daleks drain into this VUK. So it has to be rebuilt and working perfectly. Here's what it looked like during teardown ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20205_resize.jpg)
It is a VERY well built SOLID mech. Thick gauge steel that will plate well !!
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20352_resize.jpg)
Here is the assembly rebuilt ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20379_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20381_resize.jpg)
.. and installed - Excuse the wiring - I have a few more components to add !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20383_resize.jpg)
This game has the most intricate feature - the Time Expander - and therefore needs to be 100% restored to be running perfect. Dr Who is only second to ST TNG in terms of excellent engineering, and when this title is restored to this level, it is one VERY cool game to play !
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Very impressive work! ^^^
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A lot of progress has been made, but updates need to be done quicker I think !
The backbox plate is cleaned and polished. All the nuts are removed so that the polishing is easier. I just use Autosol and buff with a rag.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20394_resize.jpg)
The boards are cleaned and placed into position so I can setup the cabling correctly. The loom was cleaned in the Ultrasonic cleaner previously and looks brand new. I use new cable clamps as it is quicker and cheaper than cleaning the old clamps. I re use the old clamps (once cleaned) in reconditioning jobs.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20394_resize.jpg)
The lamp sockets are replaced throughout the game as well as the sockets mounted on plastics.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20400_resize.jpg)
Some serious time is devoted to the Time Expander assembly. Given this assembly is difficult to remove and service, I replace almost everything - optos, coils and lamp sockets.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20406_resize.jpg)
Particular attention is devoted to the opto bank assembly. Often SMASHED out of shape, with LEDs hanging on by a thread.. I had to wait until the opto board set was re-run as I don't want to pull apart this assembly just for a faulty opto ! Just replace the board. At this level of resto, it is better to replace than repair.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20407_resize.jpg)
Cleaning the individual switches - These are not available at this time, so the best way of cleaning is to mount them in a drill, and use Novus 3, followed by Novus 2 - on a slow setting. Sometimes, a quick spin with Red Scotchbrite will even out the scratches and stubborn dirt.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20410_resize.jpg)
They probably look better than new !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20412_resize.jpg)
New Opto boards installed, and assembly re-assembled. I did have to straighten up the black plastic as it had copped a pounding and was causing issues. The springs were replaced.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20415_resize.jpg)
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Re-assembly of the Dalek switches / metal scoop is also time consuming - cleaning re graining etc. I use Hex head machine screws rather than phillips head to mount the mini post panel. The reason for this is that this panel with the mini posts cops a beating, and EVERY Dr Who I've seen has this panel loosened over time. To re tighten, you need to remove the outermost mini posts. If you use 1/4" hex heads, all you need is a 1/4" spanner - no need to remove anything.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20416_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20420_resize.jpg)
Time Expander entrance Cliffy protector is mandatory.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20419_resize.jpg)
Moving on to the main assembly - re-plated and polished. New bracket screws installed.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20427_resize.jpg)
This assembly requires new bushings. They are expensive, but they make a huge difference. The Time Expander Assembly is the ONLY assembly I recommend any lubricant on metal to metal parts. I use Castrol Boat Grease. It is VERY good for this application, and previous Dr Who restorations I've used this grease on are still working 100%.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20428_resize.jpg)
Don't go nuts - This is all that is needed ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20430_resize.jpg)
Next Step is to degrease and polish the cam. The mounting bracket is plated and the motor is a new motor.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20433_resize.jpg)
Next Update shorty !
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It’s coming along very nicely Nino. Everything looks like new.
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Very nice. This is going to come out looking awesome
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Looks great Our Falcon is undergoing the same restoration process; will post pics soon.
John
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New Cabinet switches are installed ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20434_resize.jpg)
New sockets for the Dalek Topper. The LED flasher was changed as it didn't provide the effect I was looking for.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20435_resize.jpg)
Time Expander is completed. I LOVE the red mini superbands. This assembly is by far, the most difficult feature of any game to have working 100%. For now, it looks great !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20437_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20438_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20439_resize.jpg)
Replacing ALL the switches is imperative on all my High End Restorations, but if there is ONE switch that has to be replaced in any game - it is THIS switch - The playfield glass switch mounted on the inside of the cabinet. This switch prevents the Time Expander assembly from moving up and down while the playfield glass is out.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20441_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20442_resize.jpg)
Even the Tilt mechanism is plated and rebuilt !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20446_resize.jpg)
Here's an issue I came across with the Time Expander Assembly. The NEW reproduction cam has a BIG problem (one on the left). Let's see if anyone picks it up.. #@# #@#
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20449_resize.jpg)
The game has Starship-Fantasy Ramps installed, but the ramp entrance plastics are not part of the set. In fact, they are not reproduced at all. So I made my own.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20453_resize.jpg)
.. and I think they look great installed !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20454_resize.jpg)
Almost there !
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Very nice Nino and even more rewarding when you make some of the unobtainable parts yourself.
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The new cabinet didn't have the holes drilled for the headbox bracket, so I had to use simply geometry and mathematics to line up the holes perfectly.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20455_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20456_resize.jpg)
Once I was sure that each side was even, I drilled a pilot hole and used a woodscrew to test clearances.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20457_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20458_resize.jpg)
Once it is adjusted perfectly, I drill and bolt on the first bolt.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20460_resize.jpg)
Other side ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20459_resize.jpg)
Done !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20478_resize.jpg)
This is a new cabinet, but I didn't mind doing the extra work as these holes etc might be different from machine to machine. Working off ONE example may not be 100%. Because this is a high end resto, I wanted it to be mm perfect. Equal distances on both sides. The brackets will never scratch the side rails !
Moving on to an anomaly I've NEVER seen on a WPC machine. As I was teting the game, the transformer was hot - too hot to leave your hand on it. This could have been attributed to anything, but I thought I'd use a simple process of elimination to work out if the problem was the primary or secondary of the transformer. Unplug the secondary plaugs and leave the machine on for 4 hours - and it was still getting hot. So it must be the primary (mains). I checked the connector jumpers and they were fine, but from experience, I looked at the input connector and the connector was mis-wired from factory ! The Orange and the white / Orange returns are meant to be in the same row - but they were not !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20464_resize.jpg)
This would have caused the overheating. But checking the circuit diagram, no damage other than heat would have been experienced. So I re pinned the connector ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20466_resize.jpg)
Tested the machine for 8 hours continuous and it was warm to touch. Very happy !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20467_resize.jpg)
This COULD have been a LONG session of trouble shooting, but thankfully - it was solved quickly. One of several bizarre issues with the game and NEW replacement parts. No one has worked out the issue with the cam on the previous update !@#
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Now that the Power issues are solved, it is time to test the game.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20485_resize.jpg)
The playfield is simply incredible. Tim did a great job. NEW ramps really helped give the game that finishing touch !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20488_resize.jpg)
The ramp covers I made myself - Very pleased with them !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20490_resize.jpg)
Time Expander in the "home" position. Genuine Cliffy protectors !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20491_resize.jpg)
Upper playfield
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20492_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20493_resize.jpg)
Messing around with Ablaze Super Brights - and I think it looks EXCELLENT !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20513_resize.jpg)
Almost done !
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Oh wow there’s pop bumper up the top right corner. Those crystal clear ramps make a difference
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Great work and great game ^^^
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Here's an issue I came across with the Time Expander Assembly. The NEW reproduction cam has a BIG problem (one on the left). Let's see if anyone picks it up.. #@# #@#
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20449_resize.jpg)
Hey Nino,
Bit hard to see due to the angle, but is the new cam sitting a bit higher off the deck than the original? The highs and lows seem to be ok, and the shaft appears 'keyed'
You've done a great job with this pin. I doubt it looked that good when it was first made. I'm restoring my Dr Who at the moment - if it's half as good as your I'll be happy - but could I trouble you for a list of the LEDs you used, to save me a bit of trial and error?
Cheers,
Andy
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Here's an issue I came across with the Time Expander Assembly. The NEW reproduction cam has a BIG problem (one on the left). Let's see if anyone picks it up.. #@# #@#
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20449_resize.jpg)
Looks like it might have 2 issues. The hole in the centre for the shaft doesn't appear to have the flat spot. The disc itself also looks to be of a slightly smaller diameter, at least the distance from the centre to the 9 o'clock position looks to be less on the reproduction.
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Both correct - the spindle is raised on the repro. This caused intermittent issues with the raising and lowering of the assembly as it lightly touched the raised collar. I will machine it down once I restore the lathe.
I also had issues with the Time Expander Opto bank receiver as 2 of the 5 LEDs were dead and one was intermittent. I refurbished the original. The repro I purchased is "no longer available". I always knew I was a bit of a troublemaker..
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On the home stretch on this Restoration.
Some of the work done on the underside of the playfield.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20504_resize.jpg)
Some cable management re-done, and this will be checked after pre delivery testing.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20505_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20506_resize.jpg)
New Subway ramp looks excellent. Big difference !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20507_resize.jpg)
Subwoofer installed - another upgrade I like to do on these High End Restorations ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20509_resize.jpg)
New Door, lock down bar receiver and Flipper Opto boards.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20511_resize.jpg)
New Door is mandatory on all High End Restorations ^^^
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20517_resize.jpg)
Start of the end !
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Now for the bling shots - and there will be PLENTY, as this is a Restoration that took me a VERY long time to complete to this level and I'm stoked with the end result. So I took A LOT of photos !
Completed Machine
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20519_resize.jpg)
The colors really POP on this game !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20524_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20525_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20529_resize.jpg)
Playfield Glass off - A simply gorgeous playfield - Tim did a masterful job on the playfield.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20532_resize.jpg)
New Ramps manufactured by Starship-Fantasy and distributed bu (cough) RTBB. Cliffy post rubbers look really good in the colored areas.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20534_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20537_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20538_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20539_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20540_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20543_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20544_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20548_resize.jpg)
Middle of the End..
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Told you it would be a long finale !
Some of the close up work done on the mechanisms. Most of the mechs were replated in house, using techniques I've been working on for 10 years or so. I don't outsource any the work that I can otherwise teach myself to do.
Flipper Mechs
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20570_resize.jpg)
Ball Kickout
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20571_resize.jpg)
Sling bracket and cable management bracket ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20569_resize.jpg)
VUK ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20573_resize.jpg)
Boards are all refurbished in-house. Remote battery and new cables mandatory ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20578_resize.jpg)
This was the cleanest Driver Board I've EVER seen. Notice not even the GI J120 & J121 were touched by time.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20579_resize.jpg)
ColorDMD installed with New Flipper Fidelity Speakers ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20582_resize.jpg)
Some reprinted and laminated Tech Guides for the Headbox ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20576_resize.jpg)
Tech guide for the cabinet ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20563_resize.jpg)
My Sticker of Authenticity ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20575_resize.jpg)
Almost done. I promise @@^
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Final Update ;
Thanks to Tim and Stu for the fantastic playfield clearcoat and the NEW cabinet.
Thanks to the New Owner for his patience and understanding.
All parts on this machine were supplied by myself.. RTBB .. ((( @@^
It was delivered a couple weeks ago, and sits as a "Grail" Pinball in a local collection.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20604_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20611_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20584_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20587_resize.jpg)
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/Restorations/Dr%20Who%20JC/Dr%20Who%20JC%20585_resize.jpg)
Thanks following the thread, and there will be a rush of completed games in the next couple months..
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Great work Nino, truly excellent! Nice job on with the pallet racking in the background. Did you end up buying a forklift?
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Great work Nino, truly excellent! Nice job on with the pallet racking in the background. Did you end up buying a forklift?
I ended up buying a 3 stage walkie stacker via @Crashramp (http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?action=profile;u=2291) - a 4.5M Stacker which I invested in with pallet racking that basically runs around the side and back walls. I should have done this before moving all the games here, but I'm almost done. It has made life so much easier !