How to Set Up a Pinball Machine

Remove the pinball machine, legs, bolts and any other items with the machine from the packaging. Use scissors to cut through cardboard, tape or any other materials as necessary for unpacking.

Set the pinball machine so that the location for the front legs is upward and the machine is balanced on the back. If the back tilts at an angle, set the machine on its side instead so that the bottom of the machine is easy to see and get to.

Attach the front legs by slipping the leg bolts through the holes in the legs, then cover the bolts with a protector pad. Put the leg with the bolts and pad into the bolt holes on the machine. Use a wrench to tighten the legs. The size of the wrench will differ based on the specific machine, though an adjustable wrench is usually enough to tighten the bolts of any machine.

Set the machine so that it is balanced on the front legs. The back of the machine will rest on the floor. Have a helper or two lift the back of the machine off the floor. Set the back of the machine on a stool or chair or have the helper or a couple of helpers hold up the machine.

Attach the back legs--they attach in the same way as the front legs--but don't tighten them completely. Place the bolts through the legs, followed by the protector pads and then put the legs through the bolt holes on the machine and tighten with a wrench. Leave the bolts a little loose in the back.

Lift the back box of the pinball machine into place. A helper can help guide the cables to prevent getting them in the way. Use an Allen wrench to secure the box to the main game.

Unlock the coin door with the key that comes with the machine. Open the door. Reach a hand through the door and locate the lever. Pull the lever to the left. Have a helper hold the glass and then remove the lockdown bar that holds the glass in place. If the lockdown bar doesn't pull free immediately, check the lever and turn it more to the left until the lockdown bar releases.

Pull the glass out slightly and add the pinballs. The number will differ based on the specific game. Replace the lockdown bar. If it does not slide into place properly, turn the lever back to the left again and then slide it into place.

Plug in the game. The plug is usually located that the bottom and back of the game. Turn the power on and the game is ready to play.