I will continue to update with tips when purchasing a pinball machine, including NIB purchases. Feel free to chime in and provide advice.

http://www.pinwiki.com/wiki/index.php?title=Post-Purchase_Checklist

http://www.pinwiki.com/wiki/index.php?title=Bally/Stern

https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/cleaning-and-waxing-pinball-machines-vids-guide

https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/terrybs-soldering-guide-part-1

http://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/vids-guide-quick-bally-driver-board-repair-bulletproofing

https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/replacing-the-beer-seal-vids-guide

http://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/vids-guide-to-upgradingrebuilding-flippers

http://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/vids-guide-to-rebuilding-pop-bumpers

https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/replacing-stand-up-target-faces-vids-guide

http://techniek.flipperwinkel.nl/desega/index1.htm
(Data East troubleshooting and repair guide)

Too much movement of the lockdown bar can result in this type of damage to the side armor/rails. It is recommended to put mylar down (waynetrane recommended 3 layers) to prevent this wear from happening in the first place.

IMG_20201114_154023 (resized).jpg

IMG_20201114_154030 (resized).jpg

look for spots where the balls will be dropping lots (inland ball returns, in front of scoops, around pops, ball drops, shooter lane etc) and put down mylar after waxing (the maxing makes it possible to peal up the mylar easier at a later date if needed) - thanks Whysnow

wherever you expect wear put mylar or a Cliffy.