Beginner’s Toolkit

[shadowtilt]

I’m a complete newb when it comes to pinball maintenance and repair, but now that I’ve got a few older machines, I have some work to do.

Is there a “standard” set of tools that one should have, and are there any recos on what are good? I’ve got to do things like repair severed wires on a goalie and strengthen a saucer kick on WCS94, and a whole bunch of light replacements and flipper repairs on some early 80’s Bally and Stern games.

Directions to any good online guides also appreciated.

Thanks,
Steve

 

[BMHouze]

always need a decent iron

 

[Fleetwood mIkea]

A good pencil style soldering iron, soldering wick and flux for electronics are a must, as is a digital multi-meter. I see you are in Mississauga- you can buy all of that at Sayal at Dixie and Matheson. Then get a decent set of nut drivers (magnetic), screw drivers (magnetic also helps), pliers, regular and needle nose, wire cutters and an automatic wire stripper and you are off to the races.

 

[pinballjah]

I am also a complete beginner. I find something that is helpful is a tool to remove the fuses. Maybe someone can direct you to the name of the tool. It is similar to a screwdriver with a hook on the end. I use a small allen key that fits perfectly under the fuse.

One thing I also need to pick up is magnetic screwdrivers which would be extremely helpful. I picked up a multi-meter on Amazon for $20 Cdn recently. Works great.

 

[BMHouze]

I typically use my contact adjustment tool to pry out the sticky fuses.
Always by a few contact adjustment tools. They are like lighters and grow legs all the time.

 

[shadowtilt]

Thanks for the replies so far (especially on where to go in Missy). Now I just hope I don’t get overwhelmed with options! At least the normal hand tools aren’t completely foreign to me.

 

[Fleetwood mIkea]

A1 Electronics next door to Sayal also has extra long screwdrivers for $1.95. Not magnetic, but you can get a magnetizing/demagnetizing tool (Busy Bee, Princess Auto) for a few dollars. Super handy for under the playfield.