Terminator 2 flipper problem

claysred

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I've got a T2 that has a weak right flipper. After lifting the playfield up, I see that the end of stroke contacts spark when the solenoid is fired. The contacts on the flipper button also spark. The left flipper does not spark like this and it is very strong. Just the right side sparks. Looks like a big spark plug under there.

Could it be the contacts, the capacitor or a bad coil?
 
Probably the capacitor. One leg has likely broken off. It's also possible that someone wired a series wound coil on one side but that seems kind of unlikely.

That said... missing the capacitor shouldn't change the strength of the flipper.
 
If you are planning on keeping this pinball, I would recommend a flipper rebuild kit. It comes with everything to do a complete overhaul on your machine. The typical parts to cause the flipper to be weak are:
missadjusted EOS
Dirty/ damaged sleeve

Do yourself a favor though, and get the kit to replace everything. The flippers will feel brand new again! Do not use WD-40 or any other lubricant on the flipper assembly- it is meant to work with no lubrication. In fact if you do use it, it could ignite a fire because of the excessive sparking you are experiencing!
-Mark

Lindsey is right- the spark is not the cause for the flipper being weak
 
It's not directly linked to the capacitor... the cap is there to lessen the spark, which dirtys the contacts over time and causes your problem. You really need to either replace the EOS switch, or take a tungsten file to the contacts of the EOS.

The flips will run without that cap, but the switches will wear out quicker without it.

-Mike
 
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