My first restoration!

[magicbytodd]

After 3 months I'm proud to say it's finished and even works! I can't believe I was actually able to bring this thing back to life after 20 something years and want to thank the helpful people on this forum especially Ken for the excellent cabinet plans! It was a challenge but worth it! I didn't replace the cell but otherwise it looks almost new. Let me know what you all think, I could use the feedback for what will inevitably be the next one... Just don't tell my wife

Before-back.jpgBefore-front1.jpgBefore-front2.jpgBefore-front3.jpgAfter-front1.jpgAfter-front2.jpgAfter-front4.jpg

[hanabi]

Wow you did a great job on the restoration!!

You know, I quite like that you didn't replace the cell, sometimes it's nice to see a pachinko that has a little history and hasn't been over-restored, I like to look at them and marvel over what adventures they may have had

So congrats to you for preserving this one and it looks really good in the cabinet too

[MrGneiss]

Looks great!!

[JACKSJE4]

YAY!!

Another Pachinko saved from the land fill!!! I can't believe that all those pictures are of the same machine!! Excellent work!!

Can you post a pics of the back after restoration?

I'm curious to know something... do you find that you have more fun playing the machine, or restoring it? For me, I was hooked on restoring them after my first one. I found that I derive more pleasure from taking something that looks like road kill and making it look and play like new again... essentially giving it a new life. You mention that you are already looking ahead to another machine, so it sounds to me like you might be our newest pachiholic.

Again, excellent work on the restoration!!! Having restored over 50 machines personally, I can truly appreciate how much time and work you put into that machine.

[Card Shark]

Congratulations!!! Nice work on the machine, looks great!!

[mxfaiman]

If you want another one I can cut you a deal. I have over 80 to choose from. Never • Ending • Pachinko: The reason why we are Never • Ending • Pachinko (Some aren't for sale though)

Looks great. What did you do to the front? Did you reveneer it? I also see your machine had a 3rd hole like one of mine did. Odd cap someone made for it. (finger rest with the rod part cut off. )

Anyways looks good.

[Moparformances]

nice looking machine..

[SteveFury]

Wow what a difference you've made VERY good job indeed! I like your cabinet too.

[magicbytodd]

Thanks! I agree, the old cell adds some character (even though I added some it by not taking better care of it ...

[magicbytodd]

Thanks for all the kind words, folks! Here are some pictures of the back/inside including the ball gate that was part of Ken's cabinet design...
After-back3.jpgAfter-back2.jpg ball stopper-open.jpgball stopper-closed.jpg

[magicbytodd]

Yeah, definitely spent more time restoring then I ever will playing! Any yes, my name is Todd and I'm a pachiholic...

[magicbytodd]

For the front, I just filled the cracks with wood filler, sanded and painted... My first attempt was to stain it, hoping to maintain a natural look but the stain looked horrible so I went with some light yellow spray paint followed by polyurethane.

[magicbytodd]

If you want another one I can cut you a deal. I have over 80 to choose from. Never • Ending • Pachinko: The reason why we are Never • Ending • Pachinko (Some aren't for sale though)

Hmm, would be interested in checking them out, do you have pictures of your unrestored machines that are for sale? Of course, you're in Irvine and I'm in Sherman Oaks so i could possibly make a jaunt down your way some weekend and see for myself??

Looks great. What did you do to the front? Did you reveneer it? I also see your machine had a 3rd hole like one of mine did. Odd cap someone made for it. (finger rest with the rod part cut off. )

I do wonder what the deal is with that 3rd hole, strange...

Anyways looks good.

thanks!