You are correct. The rubbers are NOT supposed to be there. I played this game new when it first hit the Arcade back in 1981 and remember it this way. And besides, it plays better like that. Most make the mistake with this title and put rubber on there. I can't help but point it out to the owner when I see this.

I was lucky to get my 1st Fathom as my 1st game when I started on this pinball collecting journey. Got it for $250 working with some playfield wear but perfect bg and nice cab back in 1994. Then bought my 2nd with nicer playfield , nice cab and bg a few years later for $650. This was when no one knew what a great game this was. But I knew since I played the heck out of it back in the day. Nice to see they are going for top dollar now even approaching new Stern prices for a sweetly restored one. Scored one of the late limited run CPR ones a few months back. I'll be doing a swap on mine and post pics once done. Will look nice next to same condition Centaur, Medusa, Flash Gordon, Xenon, EBD. Class of '80/'81 is back!

-Dave (Doc)

Got to strongly disagree with you here.
The linear flipper mechs were a failed experiment. Even after rebuilding them with all new linear flipper mech parts, they still pale in comparison to the crispiness of the flip of the older fiber link type. I converted all my class of 1981 Bally's to the 1978 style. Likewise to every 1981 Bally restoration coming through my shop. Much to the glee of my customers when they try out the first game on it after I am done. =)

-Dave (Doc)

I do like how the linear mech is implemented on the kickers.

Just doesn't work well on how it is designed with the fippers with that crank.
The flipper return is awful as well. Sluggish return to home position. It is just sloppy.

The flippers are an extension of your fingers. So with that you want fast reaction times with the flip and the return.
Linears don't have that. Fiber links do.