(Topic ID: 218168)

Official "HARDTOPS" thread

By Skypilot

5 years ago


Topic Heartbeat

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Linked Games

Topic poll

“If we produce a Hardtop for this game would yo purchase it?”

  • High Speed 174 votes
    13%
  • Firepower 128 votes
    10%
  • Silverball Mania 62 votes
    5%
  • Time Warp 30 votes
    2%
  • Mata Hari 55 votes
    4%
  • Blackout 94 votes
    7%
  • Tri-Zone 26 votes
    2%
  • Swords of Fury 74 votes
    6%
  • Space Station 79 votes
    6%
  • Fathom 70 votes
    5%
  • Pinbot 134 votes
    10%
  • Eight Ball Deluxe 124 votes
    9%
  • Strikes and Spares 56 votes
    4%
  • Kiss (Bally) 71 votes
    5%
  • Supersonic 51 votes
    4%
  • Grand Lizard 80 votes
    6%

(Multiple choice - 1308 votes by 788 Pinsiders)

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Topic index (key posts)

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There are 3,334 posts in this topic. You are on page 35 of 67.
#1701 3 years ago

I was talking about the scoop holes.
The holes of the hardtop are the same size as the inner diameter of the scoop holes.

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#1702 3 years ago
Quoted from Toine79:

I was talking about the scoop holes.
The holes of the hardtop are the same size as the inner diameter of the scoop holes.[quoted image][quoted image][quoted image]

Okay then, that being said I would do any adjusting you needed to do after the hardtop is in place. Most importantly align with your inserts if you still feel the need that you need to trim the scoop holes you can use a Dremel bit once it's in place.

#1703 3 years ago

Project in waiting...

20200928_182234.jpg20200928_182234.jpg
#1704 3 years ago
Quoted from Apinjunkie:

Okay then, that being said I would do any adjusting you needed to do after the hardtop is in place. Most importantly align with your inserts if you still feel the need that you need to trim the scoop holes you can use a Dremel bit once it's in place.

ABSOLUTELY only align with the inserts! Once the HT is in place go to harbor freight with a coupon and get the trim router, its about $20-$30. Then get a trim router bit, used for laminate or something similar, its pretty cheap, about $10 bucks. Ive used this set up twice and its flawless. Plus you can do all the other holes too for kicks, lights, etc and don't forget the outter edge too, you can make it completely free and clear of any obstruction.

https://www.harborfreight.com/14-in-24-Amp-Trim-Router-62659.html?ccdenc=eyJjb2RlIjoiMTg0ODg3MzQiLCJza3UiOiI2MjY1OSIsImlzIjoiMTkuOTkiLCJwcm9kdWN0X2lk%0D%0AIjoiMTE5MzcifQ%3D%3D%0D%0A&cid=paid_google%7C%7C%7C62659&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5_W7v42N7AIVBopaBR00MgieEAQYAiABEgLMBPD_BwE

https://www.homedepot.com/p/DIABLO-3-8-in-x-1-4-in-Carbide-Flush-Trimmer-Router-Bit-DR64100/100660703?source=shoppingads&locale=en-US&mtc=Shopping-B-F_D25T-G-D25T-25_7_POWER_TOOL_ACCESSORIES-Multi-NA-Feed-LIA-NA-NA-PowerToolAccessories_LIA&cm_mmc=Shopping-B-F_D25T-G-D25T-25_7_POWER_TOOL_ACCESSORIES-Multi-NA-Feed-LIA-NA-NA-PowerToolAccessories_LIA-71700000043746545-58700004596952413-92700049573927185&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIicak3I2N7AIV0YpaBR2jOQX4EAQYBCABEgJqofD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

#1705 3 years ago

My next video with SDTM will be installing Swords of Fury. Don't know the release date for it yet, but when it goes up I'll let you guys know.

Installing SoF Hardtop (resized).jpgInstalling SoF Hardtop (resized).jpg
#1706 3 years ago

Isn't a full router way overkill for this job? I'd be afraid of taking out more wood from the hole.
What's wrong with using something smaller and more precise like a dremel?

#1707 3 years ago
Quoted from xamindar:

What's wrong with using something smaller and more precise like a dremel?

I've had great success adjusting hardtop holes with a dremel. Very precise with a steady hand and a multitude of inexpensive bits to choose.

#1708 3 years ago
Quoted from xamindar:

Isn't a full router way overkill for this job? I'd be afraid of taking out more wood from the hole.
What's wrong with using something smaller and more precise like a dremel?

If you use plunge router; other then its big and bulky, you should be using a flush bit which has an edge guide on it and will follow the existing wood hole without cutting into the substrate.

12
#1709 3 years ago
Quoted from TheCapn:

My next video with SDTM will be installing Swords of Fury. Don't know the release date for it yet, but when it goes up I'll let you guys know.
[quoted image]

Sorry Cary ,couldn’t wait for the video LOL

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#1710 3 years ago
Quoted from Mathazar:

I've had great success adjusting hardtop holes with a dremel. Very precise with a steady hand and a multitude of inexpensive bits to choose.

That's what I used, with this attachment to keep the bit in control.

https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-565-Multi-Purpose-Cutting-Kit/dp/B0000302YS/ref=sr_1_12

#1711 3 years ago

A Dremel with a carving bit and drill with a small bit resolved my hole alignment issues.

IMG_6500 (resized).jpgIMG_6500 (resized).jpg
#1712 3 years ago
Quoted from Skypilot:

Sorry Cary ,couldn’t wait for the video LOL
[quoted image]

/Shakes fist

#1713 3 years ago
Quoted from NinJaBooT:

If you use plunge router; other then its big and bulky, you should be using a flush bit which has an edge guide on it and will follow the existing wood hole without cutting into the substrate.

But any kickout holes I have seen are flared out on top. I don't have a router so haven't looked too much in to it yet. But wont a flush bit be the incorrect bit for any out-holes?

#1714 3 years ago
Quoted from xamindar:

But any kickout holes I have seen are flared out on top. I don't have a router so haven't looked too much in to it yet. But wont a flush bit be the incorrect bit for any out-holes?

Your correct. You’d have have to match to the radius of the wood to the correct router bit which wouldn’t be difficult. I definitely think a dremel is the way to go and either make circle jigs out of wood to use as a guide or put painters tape over the hardtop and mark your circle and try your luck freehanding it with a dremel.

#1715 3 years ago
Quoted from xamindar:

Isn't a full router way overkill for this job? I'd be afraid of taking out more wood from the hole.
What's wrong with using something smaller and more precise like a dremel?

This is a trim router, it fits in your palm. Secondly the trim bit I linked runs under the hole, it cuts the laminate flush with the wood edge. Its absolutely the best two things to use when cleaning up holes, edges, and anything else on the Hardtop.

#1716 3 years ago
Quoted from Toine79:

Which white leds did you use as GI?
Beautiful playfield.

Thank you! Those are #47 incandescents

#1717 3 years ago
Quoted from ibis:

This is a trim router, it fits in your palm. Secondly the trim bit I linked runs under the hole, it cuts the laminate flush with the wood edge. Its absolutely the best two things to use when cleaning up holes, edges, and anything else on the Hardtop.

Yep, exactly this. I used a flush trim bit for cutting out my HS rollover holes. I made a video to show what this looks like in action.

#1718 3 years ago

The problem I had was the similar bit I used drops into the hole for the insert but the upper hole near the playfield is just a tiny bit larger so the insert goes in but doesn't fall through.

I used a dremel to free hand and open up that upper opening. That tool that you had to remove the swarf was slick. That might have done the trick. Where did you get that?

#1719 3 years ago
Quoted from hd60609:

The problem I had was the similar bit I used drops into the hole for the insert but the upper hole near the playfield is just a tiny bit larger so the insert goes in but doesn't fall through.
I used a dremel to free hand and open up that upper opening. That tool that you had to remove the swarf was slick. That might have done the trick. Where did you get that?

The duburring tool?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L2XR4P2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title

#1720 3 years ago

Perfect! Thank you! In my cart...

17
#1721 3 years ago

My Grand Lizard is complete.

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#1722 3 years ago
Quoted from djreddog:

My Grand Lizard is complete. [quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image][quoted image]

Great job! Love the flipper and rubber color choices.

#1723 3 years ago
Quoted from La4s:

Great job! Love the flipper and rubber color choices.

+1

#1724 3 years ago

That Grand Lizard looks nice.

On inserts, what are the options when they are 40 years old and faded?
My BK has those jeweled inserts that I am pretty sure are unavailable.
Do you just stick colored LEDs under them and call it a day?
Or is there some colored overlay that can be used?

#1725 3 years ago

It's live, everyone. For those looking to install on SoF. Much easier than BK for sure.

#1726 3 years ago
Quoted from xamindar:

That Grand Lizard looks nice.
On inserts, what are the options when they are 40 years old and faded?
My BK has those jeweled inserts that I am pretty sure are unavailable.
Do you just stick colored LEDs under them and call it a day?
Or is there some colored overlay that can be used?

Honestly the options are few. First clean the underside of the insert. I can't tell you how many times I see people complain how 'dim' an incandescent bulb is so they put in LED's to brighten the insert, but the insert itself is completely filthy underneath. Second, you can clear coat the insert to eliminate cracks and fissures that dampen the brightness. Faded inserts, not sure that is fixable, but cooled LEDs could be the answer. I would resource your inserts though, most inserts can be found. In fact, because BK has been done by CPR there could be all of them floating out there. You'll just need to check with all the common sources.

10
#1727 3 years ago

Finally completed my Firepower. So thankful for the Hardtop. I previously replaced all inserts except for the hotdogs, and got new plastics and Reese Rails.

PXL_20201003_033525026 (resized).jpgPXL_20201003_033525026 (resized).jpgPXL_20201003_033533394 (resized).jpgPXL_20201003_033533394 (resized).jpgPXL_20201003_033552764 (resized).jpgPXL_20201003_033552764 (resized).jpg
#1728 3 years ago
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#1729 3 years ago

I'm still on the fence with this for my Black Knight. Does the hard top really look like it was just printed out (much lower quality than original art) like they are showing in this post?
https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/black-knight-clubmembers-only/page/38#post-5043854

#1730 3 years ago

No. I think they cull the ones that don't look perfect but a few slip out. I have done a EK and a Wizard and they both look perfect.

#1731 3 years ago

Pinbot and Taxi also perfect.

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#1732 3 years ago

Alright, you guys convinced me. When I do my BK, I will get the Hard Top.
I was studying the Mirco BK playfield from what little pictures they had on their website and already found 3 spots where they significantly changed the artwork. Why you would go through the trouble of reproducing an entire playfield and then mess with the original artwork design is completely beyond me.

#1733 3 years ago

Terrible picture but beutiful hardtop install.

roto (resized).jpegroto (resized).jpeg
#1734 3 years ago
Quoted from djreddog:

My Grand Lizard is complete.

Is that an original Lizard's head? I have a hardtop that I'll be installing eventually, but the head on mine is beat to shit! Hoping to find a better example out there somewere.

#1735 3 years ago

Now that Gorgar has been announced, my prediction for the next release: Supersonic." (I'm going to keep doing this until it's true).

#1736 3 years ago

Myself and many others are still hoping that the upper and lower playfields of the Bally Elektra will be on the list soon. I'd be up for one or two sets of those.

#1737 3 years ago
Quoted from dyopp21:

Is that an original Lizard's head? I have a hardtop that I'll be installing eventually, but the head on mine is beat to shit! Hoping to find a better example out there somewere.

Yep, original.

#1738 3 years ago
Quoted from KnockerPTSD:

I have been asked by a friend to cast my vote for a Black Hole Hardtop. It's his only game and the Mirco playfield costs a first born child. (Also he'd likely have me do the work and I dont want to do a playfield swap lol)

What would you charge for a strip down, hardtop install and rebuild for a HS ? I know you're in the process... and being next door in burlington with one that would definitely benefit from a Hardtop... I'm curious.

(side note: check your PM's... sent you a message a while ago)

#1739 3 years ago
Quoted from Canuck_pinhead:

What would you charge for a strip down, hardtop install and rebuild for a HS ? I know you're in the process... and being next door in burlington with one that would definitely benefit from a Hardtop... I'm curious.
(side note: check your PM's... sent you a message a while ago)

I wouldn't know where to begin. I just fix my own games. Ive never charged anyone for work. I work at a relaxed pace. Not a lot of free time these days for pinball repair. My HS has been stripped since July. Ill let you know how it goes.

#1740 3 years ago
Quoted from KnockerPTSD:

I wouldn't know where to begin. I just fix my own games. Ive never charged anyone for work. I work at a relaxed pace. Not a lot of free time these days for pinball repair. My HS has been stripped since July. Ill let you know how it goes.

Fair enough. Time is my issue too.

#1741 3 years ago

I'm hoping and waiting for a hardtop for:
Police Force
Earthshaker
Diner

#1742 3 years ago
Quoted from dyopp21:

Now that Gorgar has been announced, my prediction for the next release: Supersonic." (I'm going to keep doing this until it's true).

I agree. Every time I play my Supersonic, I cringe that more damage is happening to my playfield. I know it is not the most popular game, but still popular and 10K units produced.

#1743 3 years ago
Quoted from Skidave:

I agree. Every time I play my Supersonic, I cringe that more damage is happening to my playfield. I know it is not the most popular game, but still popular and 10K units produced.

I did a time lapse of all the work I did to my SS, but the crappy vinyl sticker I put down is completely jacked (my fault most likely because I sprayed it with poly). So I can’t wait to be able to “get it right!”

#1744 3 years ago
Quoted from dyopp21:

I did a time lapse of all the work I did to my SS, but the crappy vinyl sticker I put down is completely jacked (my fault most likely because I sprayed it with poly). So I can’t wait to be able to “get it right!”

Awesome video and work!! Sorry it developed issues.
Thanks

#1745 3 years ago
Quoted from dyopp21:

I did a time lapse of all the work I did to my SS, but the crappy vinyl sticker I put down is completely jacked (my fault most likely because I sprayed it with poly). So I can’t wait to be able to “get it right!”

Indeed, that's a very cool video. Nicely produced!

#1746 3 years ago
Quoted from dyopp21:

I did a time lapse of all the work I did to my SS, but the crappy vinyl sticker I put down is completely jacked (my fault most likely because I sprayed it with poly). So I can’t wait to be able to “get it right!”

What bit do use use to cut lexan holes? Make my own protectors and a little less manual work would make it go quicker. Thanks.

#1747 3 years ago
Quoted from Beemus:

What bit do use use to cut lexan holes? Make my own protectors and a little less manual work would make it go quicker. Thanks.

Drywall bit. Then I'll do the cleanup/finish with xacto knife.

#1748 3 years ago

GORGAR!!! I've had a blast helping Outside Edge prototype Blackout and Gorgar! I wish they could do Williams FLASH! Enjoy everyone!

Gorgar Shipping 2020-10-21_15-52-53 (resized).jpgGorgar Shipping 2020-10-21_15-52-53 (resized).jpg

#1749 3 years ago

Are there other upcoming titels in the near (2020) future?

#1750 3 years ago
Quoted from Toine79:

Are there other upcoming titels in the near (2020) future?

pasted_image (resized).pngpasted_image (resized).png
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