Preparing inserts and applying new insert decals.

[Mark]

Hi guys, I'm picking up a machine over the weekend (Cyclone!) which I understand has a nice playfield but bad insert wear.

I've looked online and Classic Arcades provide a set of insert decals for this, which I will be getting shortly.

My question is, firstly presumably it is best to remove all existing artwork from the inserts before applying the insert decal. I am guessing it would be best to completely remove the plastic insert so I can get the originial artwork and residue fully off.

So, can anyone tell me the best way to remove the inserts from the playfield, without damaging the playfield etc.

Is gently sanding the surface the best way to get the original artwork off? If it is, what should I use (wet/dry sandpaper, etc).

Once it is nice and clean, what is the best way to secure the insert back to the playfield?

The last bit - putting the actual decal on, I guess is quite straight forward as all the work goes into the preparation.

Any help or advice would be much appreciated as I've never done this before. Many years ago I applied the decals over the top of the originals on another machine, and although it didnt look too bad it would have looked better if I got the decals off first.

I'm planning on doing a shop log once the machine arrives and I have a proper look at it.

Thanks in advance,

Mark

 

[Carl Spiby]

I believe the best way to remove inserts is to heat them up and tap them out with a wooden mallet.

 

[Wizcat]

When people talk about 'insert wear' it's usually due to the insert raising/sinking from being level with the playfield, and so usually affects the area around the insert (ie, the playfield artwork) as well as the insert itself. Have you seen the patient yet?

Take a look at 'Vids Guide' on pinside : Vid's Guide to Ultimate Playfield Restoration Pinside Pinball Forum - Pinside.com

 

[Mark]

Thanks guys, not actually seen it yet but am picking up on Sunday. Will put some pics on the shop log forum once I get it home

Cheers, Mark

 

[Pin Muncher]

Knock out the insert carefully and clean off all the old decal. Sand it nice and level, apply the decal wet, make sure you line it up correctly as some inserts don't have the artwork centrally aligned, my fish tales video mode was slightly off to one side. Once it's dry, trim the edges off, I stuck some privacy film on the reverse to disperse the light a bit better, if you don't do this they will look different to the old ones. Once you are happy glue the inside and carefully put the insert back into place and level it off with a flat edge. Easy