So.... just to name a few, removing batteries from the board, using molex/trifurcon's instead of IDC for constant voltage connectors, replacing the mosfets for Stern Whitestar flipper driver transistors when they blow with IRL540s, and many other things.... this doesn't end in a quality, better than original result...?

There are lots of changes in design, done at the repair level, and further implemented throughout further versions of the board sets in pinball.

Sorry, I disagree with your statement. Things you pointed out are considered hacks by most (ie bypassing connectors). I agree with this, if you meant it this way:

"If a hack is required to fix a problem, then it is not a fix but a hack, which means you are a hack for hacking over doing it the right way, and that does not end in a quality result over the accepted modification."

But what you are saying is liking stating Clay's Guides, for example is a bunch of hacks for the global collection of repairs and upgrades that should be done. It's like saying repairing the ground issues in a Gottlieb System 1 or 80 is not a good end result. Sorry, there are many, many things in pinball that were not good ideas, and the consensus on modifications to make them stronger and reliable are good, solid ideas for the most part.

You mention the Sys1 ground in your first post. I just don't understand how you can state that does not end in a quality end result over leaving it original. I mean, what is your belief then for overcoming that very serious issue for that system?

Again, you mentioned a straight wire avoiding a connector, and I would label that a "hack" by slang definition, something that while it improves the connectivity, creates a further issue in removal down the line.

Maybe I'm missing your point, because I don't want anyone to think that they should not complete the mods that have been raised here, or other standards in pinball repair in maintenance.