How to approach a new game.
For EM folks and others.
Your new game can sense fear. Approach it in a confident manner. Quote some Latin if you know it, that will let the machine know who's boss. Threaten to perform an exorcism, or to unplug it permanently.
Here are some things I do when faced with a new machine.
1. Before powering it up, pull out all subunits and check them and the case throughly. Check all switches for proper opening and closing. (
http://newlifegames.net/nlg/index.php?topic=17603.0 how to check switch contacts). Look for any loose wires, esp. wires touching to case. Check all mechanical functions, to see that latching relays do latch and reset as they should.
2. Push on the pump arm to ensure that the reels kick and spin. Make any adjustments as necessary.
3. Look for broken or missing parts.
4. Give it a good check and test for shorts, (
http://newlifegames.net/nlg/index.php?topic=17559.0 check for shorts) on all subunits and case. Remove shorts if found.
5. Lube it politely and work the oil/grease into all moving parts.
6. Power it up by plugging into a power cord with an on/off switch. Power it on for a couple of seconds to check for sparks, fire, etc.
7. Power it up again, and look for your 3 voltages - 120VAC, 50VAC, and 6VAC. (
http://newlifegames.net/nlg/index.php?topic=17550.0 check fuses)
8. Replace all bad 6V lights, and 120V fluorscents.
9. Push down and release the coin in switch. See if you get handle release and can play the game. If you are missing some coil action, try using jumpers (
http://newlifegames.net/nlg/index.php?topic=17558.0 using jumpers)
10. Check all pays, and on all coins in.
That's a start. By doing these things you may find that you spend less time tracing down problems, as you have probably already fixed many of them by following this procedure.
Then, if you have further problems, post them here on NLG, and send pictures. There's lots of smart folks here who will give you their time to help you fix your machine. And I'll help too...lol.
Be sure to try their advice, and be as clear and concise as you can about the specific problem. And one at a time with the problems, otherwise threads can get tangled and very confusing.
It really is more fun IMHO to work on these things than it is to play them. They are a wonderful design, and can be rebuilt and kept running for many many years.
Oh, and don't forget to use your meter!!!
Thanks,
OldReno
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