I have never found it to be a problem. I have done dozens of play fields with 4-6 coats of Varathane. At first I was worried it would clog up the slots, and tried masking the entire insert. That left a nasty edge (like the issue in that thread on mylar protectors). I use rattle cans and relatively thin coats. Once in awhile I have to clean just a bit from the end of a slot, but really hasn't been and issue.

Take the rollovers you took out and put them in upside down. After you spray, take them out. Maybe try that?

That's the way to do it.

I've had a playfield restored professionally that has star rollovers in it, and at least with auto clear, it got in the grooves and it was a big issue. I think though they have changed how they block the grooves in the process now though. But I had to clean out every groove and when you have five rollovers in the game, it was a time consuming process. With Varathane, I don't think it would be near the issue.

Take them out and replace with brand new ones when done

To remove those stars, press them down and CUT OFF THE NUB at the bottom of the stem. DO NOT try to force it up through the retainer tabs.

If you get new star inserts from Pinball Resource you will need to shave off a tiny bit of the stem's thicker girth at the top of the stem. If you don't there is a good chance they will stick when pressed down.

You may be surprised how new brite white stars enhance a playfield. While you're poking around the stars, adjust the lamp underneath as close to the switch as you can get it without touching. Get that insert really glowing.

This is where flex-head LEDs really come in handy.

Be careful - you don't want to have to deal with this...

IMG_3950_(resized).jpg

Mind you, this wasn't varathane... it was professionally applied clear coat, but still be careful...

You can't take them out after they've been cleared over. And you really can't clear it with them out either.

Vids guide said to put them in upside down like people suggested and to remove them while the clear is not cured but not super runny.

I've used a poor man's approach on several of these with great success. I measured the diameter of the insert, then with a compass drew the circle on a large piece of painters tape. Carefully cut it out and put the circle of painters tape over the insert.
After the clear had cured I cut the overspray on the painters tape with a razor and pulled up the tape. It worked perfect for me!

Not the optimal way, but a good alternative.

Nope, spent hours and hours with a sharp art knife, and various other hand tools. Wasn't brave enough to try a Dremel or anything powered. I'm reassembling the PF now and the rollovers still stick so will try the earlier mentioned tip of slimming down the new stars.

come on step up .. get a dremel and the right tool and play dentist.

Practise under the apron if you're not confident.

Doug has spoken, I'm off to buy a bigger pair of cojones..