Changing Button Bulbs (Tutorial?)

[Yoeddy1]

Hey guys,

I've changed a few bulbs on my IGT slot machine, and through the process, I broke many parts.  I have a bulb that went out on my poker machine and parts are REALLY scarce for this machine.  Anybody have a good video or tutorial around the easiest way to change bulbs?

Thanks!

[MarkInAz]

Join the club Yoeddy1.  On these older machines the plastic pieces get brittle.  I've developed a few techniques.  Basic as it sounds- turn the machine off first.  For removing the bulb socket from the bottom of buttons- only pull straight down, gently & firmly on the switch/socket assembly.  Don't twist, turn or pry.  For removing bulb from the top of a button you can use a piece of aquarium hose.  Slip it firmly over the bulb and pull.  Never use bare metal needle nose pliers to remove a bulb. Sometime you can get away with ones that have rubber tips.  After you have broken a few yourself you'll get the feel for doing it.  Lastely, beware of some replacement buttons, some sources are recycled from old machines and they are just as brittle.  (a pet peeve of mine)

Cheers,   
Mark

[Yoeddy1]

I think I found a pretty sweet combination for those that want to pop the caps off and pull the bulbs from the top.  Rubber tipped needle nose pliers worked every time for me and I didn't break a single bulb.  As far as popping button caps goes, get a small paring knife and bend a small hook in it.  Popped 6 buttons off without breaking a single cap.  Couldn't believe how much residue was under those buttons.  After cleaning them, the red button caps and red plastic bases REALLY throw out a nice clean glow. 

Thanks again for the advice!