I would like to ask if anybody is able to help me on an issue with the (DC motor controlled) Fish Tales reel stopping too late.

When it releases balls for multiball start the rotation is sometimes stopping so far too late that the ball cannot roll out of the mech.

Please review the photos.

I assume the reel is set to stop by the tailedge of the interruptor to the opto switch. That is when the switch closes. But I could not know for sure, as my unit is all over the place. Tested with the metal place removed for visual inspection.

Any ideas or experience with similar problems are welcome.

I should add, that I have replaced the belt and it is very tight.

I should also add, that I have tried to move the opto switch (reference point) without much changing if anything.

My own ideas for a fix.

1. Alter the motor EMI circuit to improve the motor break or make the motor rotate slower.

2. Widen the mounting holes of the metal plate and mount it further in the direction of the rotation.

Fish reel 1-907.jpg
Fish reel 2-586.jpg

Hi, thanks for the reply.

Yes and no.

Optos are cleaned and the switch test and reel test checks out.

I replaced the belt with a standard black pinball rubber ring. And cleaned the tallies. The tension seems perfect.

I will be happy to try a replacement belt that is claimed to be the correct one next time I am ordering from a vendor stocking one. But I will be very surprised if that is the problem. And I will post a public apology if so.

Thanks for the replies.