What is dangerous in a pinball machine? Just looking to figure out what I should be looking out for, and starting a thread in the interest of helping others.
So far the safety rules/advice I have gathered from personal experience and this site is;
1. Always unplug the machine before opening it up and soldering stuff. You can absolutely shock the crap out of yourself (been there).
2. Sanding down old playfields and cabinets can release lead paint, especially older E.M.s. Don't do it in the house and wear a mask.
3. DIY playfield clearcoat spray is straight cancer and don't attempt it without proper safety equipment.
4. Moving pinball machines can be dangerous... especially with stairs. Ask a buddy for help if you need it, and don't do it while/after drinking.
5. Cheap dolly's can break after moving a few dozen machines (mine did). Consider replacing them periodically if you use them alot (https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/dolly-broke-pin-dumped-advice-needed#post-5121293).
6. Check for special voltages on bulbs before replacing them in non standard places, especially toppers. I put the wrong type of LED in a WhiteWater topper and it smoked and melted (https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/whitewater-club-lifejackets-not-required/page/85#post-5148132).
7. Always stay and watch a pinball machine for a bit (20 minutes) after conducting electronic repair... just in case it starts smoking.
8. Always photograph board connectors before removing and tinkering with boards. I have had my machine smoke, parts, melt, and almost caused a fire plugging ribbon cables in backwards. Other games (Twilight Zone/Black Knight) are notorious for having connectors that fit together that can start fires.
9. Never over fuse.
10. Never set playfield glass down on concrete.
I have heard that some components on boards can be dangerous to handle even when unplugged. Something about capacitors. What are they and what do they look like?
What other tips do you have and what should we be on the lookout for?