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How to Improve the Flipper Strength of a Pinball Machine

Like any machine with multiple moving parts, a pinball machine needs occasional maintenance to keep it in good working order. If you notice that your pinball machine's flipper strength has decreased, it may simply be a maintenance issue. With a few troubleshooting steps, you can determine how to increase the flipper strength of your pinball machine.

Things You'll Need

Allen wrench set
Phillips screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Isopropyl alcohol
Cotton-tipped applicators
Flipper rebuild kit
Replacement flipper bushing

Instructions

Improving Pinball Flipper Strength
- 1
  Unplug the pinball machine before you begin working on it.
- 2
  Check the pinball machine playfield for signs of flipper drag such as rub marks or scratches. Maneuver each flipper to determine whether they are dragging against the playfield. If they are, replace the flipper bushing.
- 3
  Check the flipper assemblies to ensure there are no loose or broken parts. If you find any, use the rebuild kit to replace the broken parts and tighten any loose elements with an Allen wrench or screwdriver, as appropriate.
- 4
  Disassemble the flipper mechanism using the Allen wrench or screwdriver. Clean each component of the mechanism with isopropyl alcohol and cotton-tipped applicators.
- 5
  Reassemble the flipper mechanism and insert it into the new flipper bushing.

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