Help - Anyone know what this piece does?

[Rickyearl]

A couple of days ago, I purchased a 1989 vintage Nishijin hanemono-style machine.

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When I turned it on, everything seemed to be working to some degree, but the shooter would not fire balls. The motor made the repetitive noise like it was shooting, but it seemed the balls weren't getting down where they needed to be. So I opened the door and there were two things clogging the path. First was a really rusted ball. Second was this piece, about as wide as a ball and half an inch long:

IMG_7933.jpgIMG_7931.jpg

Anyway, after removing both and cleaning out the shooter path pretty well, I was surprised to see it still won't shoot. So I have two questions.

First, anyone recognize that piece or know its purpose? Second, does it go somewhere in the machine, particularly in the shooter path?

Thanks!

[Moparformances]

First, anyone recognize that piece or know its purpose?

I know I know ohh ohh pick me, I know




it blocks the balls

Second, does it go somewhere in the machine, particularly in the shooter path?

dont think so, looks like trash to me

[alucard7x7]

Yep, looks like trash. I had a similar incident on one of my machines. Balls weren't firing, I looked and found something that I thought was meant to be in there, turns out it wasn't supposed to be. I ripped it out and everything went back to normal When in doubt, rip it out!

[luckydog]

If in fear, keep it near

[Rickyearl]

So I will both leave it out and keep it handy. Got it.