How difficult are these to fix?

SideArms

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Hey Guys,
Usually I spend my time on dedicated cabinet machines but I am looking at buying one of these that does not work. I'm kind of curious how terrible these are to troubleshoot? The game is a 1980 GOTTLIEB FORCE II. I am an electrical engineer so I don't believe the electronics can be terribly difficult to fix but any information/ guidance is greatly appreciated.

Thanks In Advance
Justin
 
Thanks Hotrod

I have not purchased the game yet, however. I am interested in buying it but would like to make sure I'm not getting myself into tons of trouble that I may not be able to fix.

Like I said, stand ups are my game but I can't imagine these are that much different as far as the circuitry.
 
I have not been into pins for very long (actually just got my first about 2 weeks ago) But it was also made in the early 80's as far as mine goes the electronics are fairly easy (just tedious) but if everything is coming up and it is going to tilt I would almost be willing to bet you have a stuck switch, it could have gotten bent very easily by someone not paying attention removing the playfield or something like that.

Bottom line I would jump all over it for $200 bucks (and take the beating that would come later from my wife)
 
$200 would be a pretty good price. Follow the PinRepair guide mentioned earlier by Gonzo, if you are an EE it will be a breeze, it will be like going back to 80's electronics. Most of the common parts are available from several online vendors, it is just the artwork that is difficult to replace.
 
I have not purchased the game yet, however. I am interested in buying it but would like to make sure I'm not getting myself into tons of trouble that I may not be able to fix.

Like I said, stand ups are my game but I can't imagine these are that much different as far as the circuitry.

If you are an EE this should not be a problem for you.

Whatever you do don't troubleshoot it before you buy... many stories of people deciding to keep games once they get their "free" fix.
 
Only thing I'll add.....Gottlieb pinballs of that era have a lot more oddball/hard-to-find/impossible-to-find chips, when compared to Williams or Bally pinballs of the same era.

Edward
 
It's probably a stuck slam switch...they are famous for that.However,if it's in nice shape 200 isn't too much to pay.Like it was said...DO NOT trouble shoot it until you get it home.
 
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