Quoted from pookycade:I just want to say it is ridiculously hard to keep old pins running. Many operators will only run newer Sterns due to constant breakdowns.
I usually get more upset with pay per play places that aren't well maintained. It's annoying when you loose 5-10 dollars in tokens because of coin mechs, or pay a dollar to play a game with a non-working or super weak flippers.
If it's a free play arcade, you have to take into account those machines are probably getting at least 5 times or more in plays than your average location.
Not saying it's impossible to keep up with a free-play arcade, I wouldn't want to do it though.
As for locations having old machines (pre-2000) vs. new machines (2000 and up), personally I don't have any more or less issues with older machines. For me, it's because ALOT the time I put in on them and the new parts I add. Don't want the headache of a machine breaking down every couple of days because of something I could have prevented. Also at most locations that aren't freeplay, it's harder to justify giving a spot to a game that is going to earn 5 to 10 times less then a newer one. That and most ops aren't going to want to spend the time on preventative maintenance... It's not worth it for the most part. Without tournament players, I doubt I would have any old machines (pre-90's). (to bad because there are a lot of good ones).
