Help with TZ for restoration

[Pajo]

Hi Everyone,

I'm a newbie and am looking for some advice on buying a Twilight Zone pinnie for restoration.  I spoke with Mark C at Child amusements who was very helpful, but I'm hoping some people here might be able to help out with some tips on what the things are that I should be looking out for when assessing a machine. There is a TZ available near me but before I go and see it,  what are the important things I should be looking for.  Are there issues I should just walk away from?

I know it depends on condition but what would be an ok price for a working machine, just pulled from site and in need of restoration? 


Thanks

[Strangeways]

TZ is a busy and complicated pinball - even for experienced techs and restorers. The Gumball machine and Clock need to be working just as a start.

Matt has a thread on his restoration - which is "top notch" and would be a reference for you !

[silverball]

I have owned a TZ and repaired a few, PM me if you have any specfic questions. Main things to look out for in TZ are the function of the spiral magnets as well as the mini playfield (flipper magnets), the function of the gumball/clock as nino mentioned. The colour of the clock housing, if original, will give you a good indication how cooked the clock boards are. Make sure the ceramic ball is also present.There is a lot going on in a TZ so if your first pin then I suggest buying one fully working. There are many replacement parts available but will add up quickly in cost if most have to be replaced.