Pinballs seem intimidating but to be honest they are very simple machines to work on. If something doesn't work, you can usually trace the issue back. Focus on one problem at a time and fix it correctly. If you don't have the manuals for all your games, purchase or download them for reference.

Odds are you aren't the first person to have the issues you are experiencing. Write a clear, concise post regarding your issue(s) and people will help. Don't fill them with all the personal drama. It's a turn off and will not result in the help you seek.

Remember in some cases you are dealing with electronics that have out lived their designed use cycle. Constant maintanece and tweaking is part of the hobby and should be expected.

You're going to replace all the boards, re-wire the machine, then install another board to emulate the ROM vs getting a single board repaired?? I'm going to be positive here and say that's a terrible idea.

You just said you have no time to work on things so why not send the board out. 11 weeks later when things with school die down the board will almost be done.

Here we are 3 pages in with some of the brightest minds on this site tuned in and I don't think you've asked a single question in regards to one of your issues. Not to be that guy, but we know more about your personal life than your machines at this point...