It is now my standard during a service job to remove the bottom board, and remove each switch stack for a closer look, especially on a multi-player. There was no way I could be sure everything was correct on a recent Grand Prix without doing this it was so congested. IMG_1931 (resized).JPG

I also set it up like this during final troubleshooting so I could see everything as it activated.

A quote from pinrepair.com;

" I visually inspect every switch. I look at all the relay switches, score motor switches, and playfield switches. It does not take that long - I can visually inspect all switches in a game in about 5 or 10 minutes. You would be amazed at the problems that can be *seen* - broken switch blades, obviously mis-adjusted switches, wires that have broken solder joints from switch contacts, etc."

To fulfill this inspection (which I agree with) sometimes boards must be removed. So far I have not found an EM that requires just fixing what is broken, not where it will work reliably without something else going wrong. Many times there are multiple issues occurring. You would also be amazed at what cannot be seen bent over/inside a machine.

I also do not make assumptions as to the mechanical aptitude of the OP, if they are willing to undertake a refurbishment of an EM this speaks volumes. The motor switch stacks do appear imposing to a beginner but are no more complicated than rebuilding a stepper.