Every coin operated machine we restore receives a 10-point inspection and restoration. Our comprehensive restoration is very labor intensive and can take up to 24 hours to complete. Because all work cannot be done in consecutive hours, a complete machine restoration and rebuild can take up to 3 weeks to complete.
Step 1 – Preparation
The first step in restoring the machine is to prepare the cabinet for restoration. We carefully remove all electronics, the monitor, damaged side art, coin door, T molding, light kits, power supply, buttons, joysticks and other mechanisms both inside and outside the machine. Many of these items will be cleaned and reused, providing they are still in excellent working condition.
Step 2 – Cleaning
The second step is cleaning the cabinet. Once everything has been removed, it is thoroughly cleaned free of dust, debris and any mold that may be in the cabinet. Any residue from the side art is wiped clean and the entire surface of the cabinet is prepped for repair and painting.
Step 3 – Cabinet repair
The third step includes complete cabinet repair and restoration. This includes very detailed repair work including repairing water damage to the cabinet with bondo and sanding. The cabinet is thoroughly examined to ensure that all edges are smooth and solid.
Step 4 – Metal work
The fourth step involves restoring the metal to its original condition. A wire brush is used to remove paint, decals, and any other defects to the metal parts. Metal parts that require painting are prepped for painting.
Step 5 – Painting
Once the cabinet and metal parts have been thoroughly cleaned, repaired and prepped, the entire cabinet is primed and painted with 2 coats of primer and 3 coats of quality paint.
Step 6 – Testing
The sixth step in our process is to test all electronics that were inside the cabinet to determine if they are still working or if any repairs are necessary. Anything that is non working is recycled or used for parts. Anything that can be used is cleaned and restored to as-close-to original condition as possible.
Step 7 – Ordering
In most cases, some electronics and other cabinet materials will need to be ordered to bring the cabinet to fully functional working order. Any items that need to be replaced will be ordered. We only order the finest quality products on the market. We do not cut corners and order cheap knock-off parts. We order factory-grade quality products that meet the highest standards in the industry.
Step 8 – Applications
The final step in the preparation of the cabinet, and eight step in our process, is to apply all artwork and decorations to the cabinet including decals, T molding, marque, and bezel.
Step 9 – Installation
The eight step in our process is to install all electrical mechanicals inside the cabinet. This includes all wiring and testing associated with ensuring that the machine functions as it should. All joysticks move and respond correctly, buttons fire properly, and the screen is clear and visible.
Step 10 – Testing
A final step in our 10-point process is to test everything as if a customer were operating the machine for the first time. We ensure that when the machine is turned on, it operates it would be expected to from the moment it is plugged in. Any lights turn on as they should, the monitor starts correctly and images are legibly displayed and ready for players.
Every machine we work on receives our complete 10-point inspection, but for some, this entire restoration process is not necessary, especially if the machine is in complete working order when we receive it. In most cases though, we receive machines in horrible physical condition and non working condition. Any machine we receive in terrible, non working condition, is sent through our entire 10-point inspection and restoration process.