Thanks for documenting. There is an HEP TAF thread going on at the same time. Perfect timing.

Original's the first one - left side. Right side peals right off, is painted black underneath, is less faded.

Right front side also seems trimmed a bit further away from the edge.

Fun thread.

What's the plan for the playfield?

It will turn out beautiful anyway so it's really your personal preference. I like the blades too. They have the advantage of providing depth and additional lighting to the playfield. You can remove them too if you don't like them. In fact, you could even have the decals underneath if you are not sure and want to have multiple options. Personally, I think it looks a lot better with something - either blades or mirror blades.

What's the plan for the playfield restoration & clear?

So the right side of the head was redecaled with the old decal painted over. Didn't look that bad.

If the bottom panel fits nice and tight, between the glue and the nails, it should be plenty strong.

This cabinet bottom isn't going anywhere, that's for damn sure.

Assuming you have the cash. If not, there are ways you can take your game to the next level without breaking the bank, particularly if you are handy. The top restorers on this site are very generous with their time and tips/information and there is plenty you can do on your own.

Media stuck between the head and the washer is the worst.

Same here. With the addition of trying to have anything that's on the playfield shine. So it's either shiny out of the tumbler, it goes to the buffing wheel, it gets plated, or it gets replaced.

This switch has seen better days!