Pinball Machine Maintenance: Preventative Care and Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Game Running Smoothly - Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts (2024)

Pinball machines are not just games; they’re mechanical marvels that deserve proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. Regular preventative maintenance and cleaning can go a long way in keeping your pinball machine running smoothly.

At Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts, we can take care of your pinball machine service and repairs, so what are you waiting for? Contact us today!

Let’s take a look at four essential tips for maintaining your pinball machine, from routine inspections to thorough cleaning techniques. By following these guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your beloved game and enjoy countless hours of pinball fun.

Conduct Regular Inspections

Start by conducting regular inspections of your pinball machine. Check for loose screws, bolts, or nuts that may affect gameplay or cause mechanical issues. Examine the playfield for any signs of wear, such as chipped paint or cracked plastics. Inspect the flippers, bumpers, and targets to ensure they’re functioning properly and not overly worn.

Pay attention to the condition of rubber rings, as worn or damaged rings can affect ball movement and accuracy. If you notice any issues during your inspection, address them promptly to prevent further damage. Regular inspections allow you to catch problems early and take the necessary steps to maintain the integrity of your pinball machine.

Pinball Machine Maintenance: Preventative Care and Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Game Running Smoothly - Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts (1)

Clean the Playfield

Cleaning the playfield is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation of your pinball machine. Start by removing the glass covering the playfield, taking care not to damage it. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber towel to wipe down the playfield, removing dust, dirt, and any spilled liquids. For stubborn dirt or ball marks, you can use a mild cleaner specifically designed for pinball playfields.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the playfield’s finish. After cleaning, inspect the playfield again to ensure there is no remaining debris or residue. Finally, reattach the glass securely, ensuring it is clean on both sides. Regular playfield cleaning not only enhances the aesthetics but also improves the overall gameplay experience.

Pinball Machine Maintenance: Preventative Care and Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Game Running Smoothly - Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts (2)

Maintain Flippers and Mechanisms

The flippers are one of the most important components of a pinball machine, and keeping them in good working order is essential. Regularly inspect the flipper assemblies for wear, loose parts, or signs of damage. Ensure the flipper bats are tight and not wobbly. Clean the flipper mechanisms using a soft brush to remove dirt and debris, and lubricate the pivot points with a suitable lubricant for smooth operation.

Additionally, check other mechanical components such as pop bumpers, slingshots, and kickers for proper functioning and clean them as needed. Pay attention to any unusual sounds or sluggish movements, as these may indicate mechanical issues that require attention. Proper maintenance of flippers and other mechanisms guarantees accurate and responsive gameplay.

Pinball Machine Maintenance: Preventative Care and Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Game Running Smoothly - Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts (3)

Protect and Store Your Pinball Machine

When not in use, it’s important to protect and store your pinball machine properly. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or high humidity, as these can cause damage to electronic components and playfield artwork. Use a quality pinball machine cover to shield it from dust, pet hair, and other contaminants. If you plan to move or transport your pinball machine, ensure you follow proper procedures to prevent damage.

Take care when handling the glass, as it is fragile and can break easily. Store any spare parts, manuals, or documentation in a safe place, keeping them organized for future reference. By taking proactive steps to protect and store your pinball machine, you can extend its lifespan and maintain its value.

Pinball Machine Maintenance: Preventative Care and Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Game Running Smoothly - Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts (4)

Maintaining a pinball machine is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. By conducting regular inspections, cleaning the playfield, maintaining flippers and mechanisms, and protecting and storing the machine properly, you can keep your pinball game running smoothly for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained pinball machine provides endless hours of entertainment and enjoyment. Happy flipping!

Contact us today at Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts if your machine needs service performed by a professional.

Pinball Machine Maintenance: Preventative Care and Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Game Running Smoothly - Paradise Pinball and Amusem*nts (2024)

FAQs

How do you maintain a pinball machine? ›

General Maintenance Steps
  1. Eliminate the glass from the playfield. Presently it's an ideal opportunity to slide the glass out of the machine. ...
  2. Lift the playfield. ...
  3. Report your playfield. ...
  4. Vacuum that dust away. ...
  5. Time to add some shine. ...
  6. Set up back and return to playing!
Dec 14, 2021

How often should I clean my pinball machine? ›

Really cleaning your pinball machine should be performed every couple months. This will help prolong the life and luster of your pinball. If you have gotten yourself a brand new pinball machine, cleaning will be much simpler. For the most part, using a soft bristle brush on a small shop vacuum will be enough.

Do pinball machines hold their value? ›

As long as you take care of your pinball machine properly, it'll last you a lifetime and give you the best value for your money. Restoring pinball machines increases its resale value, so don't hesitate the next time you might want to play a game or two on your collector pinball machine as it will not damage its value!

Do pinball machines require a lot of maintenance? ›

Maintaining a pinball machine is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. By conducting regular inspections, cleaning the playfield, maintaining flippers and mechanisms, and protecting and storing the machine properly, you can keep your pinball game running smoothly for years to come.

Is pinball good for the brain? ›

In learning how to play or by playing pinball frequently, hand eye coordination can be increased two fold, as well as developing lighting fast reflexes and incredible timing. Pinball can be quite a mental game, as you think of moves and strategies on the spot.

What is the secret to pinball? ›

The most important rule for aiming is simply that the closer to the tip the ball is, the more to the opposite side it will go. So, for example, let's say you're holding the ball on the left flipper. You drop the flipper and let the ball roll down. If you flip again quickly, you'll send the ball more to the left.

Why was pinball illegal? ›

But in the 1940s, pinball was often seen as a moral menace, tempting both players and observers to gamble, corrupting youth and adults alike. The city of New York banned pinball in 1942 because of betting on the outcome of games, and gambling was against the law.

How do you wrap a pinball machine? ›

Wrap Up Your Pinball Machine

Take the pinball machine – you may need more helpers here, up to three or four in total – and place it on the blanket. Pull the blanket up as far as it can go and tape it in place. Use multiple blankets in this way to fully wrap up your machine and keep it safe.

How do you pack a pinball machine for moving? ›

Moving a Pinball Machine
  1. Remove the pinballs and any other easily removable components.
  2. Fold the head of the pinball game.
  3. Secure the head and play field with plastic wrap.
  4. Remove the front and back legs of your machine.
  5. Wrap your pinball machine in blankets to protect artwork.

Are pinball machines loud? ›

While playing pinball, or while hanging out at an arcade where pinball machines are present, it's common to hear a loud BANG!

How old is the oldest pinball machine? ›

It wasn't until the 1930s that the first modern-looking, coin-operated pinball machine was invented. It was created by the company Automatic Industries, which named it a “whiffle board.” Next up was a game called “Ballyhoo,” invented in the 1930s by Raymond Maloney.

Are you supposed to tilt pinball machines? ›

Some tables have a mini-playfield or game which involve tilting a surface, e.g. E.T. , Indiana Jones. But as advised, titling is typically a consequence of excessive nudging.

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