How to Care for a Pinball Machine

Cleaning

• 1

  Remove the playfield glass from the machine and clean both sides using a rag and some glass cleaner.

• 2

  Clean the playfield by wiping it down with microfiber cloths dampened with pinball playfield cleaning solution, which can be purchased from a hobby shop. Wax the playfield with a wax/polish when finished.

• 3

  Clean the bumpers and other components of the playfield, like the decorations, with a cotton swab dipped in 90% isopropyl alcohol. This solution dries almost instantly so it won't damage any electrical components.

Maintenance

• 4

  Replace the rubber o-rings around select components. These rings tend to stretch and crack over time.

• 5

  Replace all the light bulbs that are burning out or dimming. You'll often see signs when a light bulb is ready to die, like dimming or flickering.

• 6

  Test the flippers and apply a small amount of WD-40 to loosen them up if they need to be tightened.

• 7

  Replace the pinballs about once a month, depending on how frequently you use the machine. Worn pinballs can chip and damage components.