Moving a pinball machine, whether for home use or for commercial purposes, must be done with care to avoid damage to the machine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help ensure you move your pinball machine safely.
Prepare for the Move
Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need moving blankets, stretch wrap, a dolly or hand truck, packing tape, and possibly a friend to help with the heavy lifting. Ensure your path is clear of obstacles before you start.
Step 1: Power Down and Unplug the Machine
Power off the pinball machine and carefully unplug it from the wall socket. It is vital to ensure that the machine is not only turned off but also disconnected from any power source to prevent electrical damage.
Step 2: Remove the Pinball and Secure Loose Parts
Open the pinball machine’s main door and remove the pinball(s). While you’re at it, secure any loose parts inside the machine to prevent them from moving around during the move. Any movable parts such as balls, flippers, extra parts, etc., should be packed separately and securely.
Step 3: Fold Down the Backbox
Most modern pinball machines have a backbox that can fold down onto the playfield. Consult the machine’s manual for proper procedures as the locking mechanism can vary. After folding it down, make sure that it’s locked or secured in place. If your machine doesn’t have a fold-down backbox, you may need to remove it entirely, being careful to detach any connectors the correct way as per the manual.
Step 4: Wrap the Machine
Wrap the entire machine with moving blankets to protect it from scratches and dents. Use the stretch wrap over the blankets to keep them in place. Pay special attention to corners and edges, which are most prone to damage. Secure all wrapping with packing tape, but make sure the tape doesn’t stick to the machine itself to avoid residue.
Step 5: Lift the Machine onto the Dolly
Instead of trying to lift the entire machine by hand, carefully tip the machine to one side and slide the dolly underneath. Make sure the dolly supports the machine well. Once in place, tilt the machine back (carefully) onto the dolly so that the weight is balanced. Secure the machine to the dolly with straps if available. This step may require an extra set of hands, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Step 6: Move the Machine
Using the dolly, slowly move the pinball machine. If there are stairs, it’s best to have at least one other person to help control the movement. Move at a slow, steady pace to avoid any jarring motions that could damage the machine. Take breaks if necessary to prevent exhaustion or loss of control.
Step 7: Transport the Machine
If you’re transporting the machine in a vehicle, ensure it’s positioned so that it won’t slide around during transport. Use straps to secure it inside the vehicle, avoiding any pressure on delicate parts. Again, pay attention to balance and make sure the backglass is protected and facing upwards if possible.
Step 8: Reassemble at the Destination
Once you’ve moved the machine to its new location, carefully reverse the steps. Unwrap the blankets and stretch wrap. If you had folded down the backbox, lift it back into place and secure it. Reinstall any parts you may have removed and place the pinballs back inside. Then, plug the machine in and do a thorough test to ensure everything is still working correctly.
Tips and Considerations
- Always refer to the pinball machine’s manual for instructions specific to your model.
- Be very gentle with the glass areas, especially the backglass and playfield glass. Consider removing them and transporting them separately if manageable.
- Use gloves to improve grip and protect your hands during the move.
- Before powering on after the move, let the machine settle, especially if it has been exposed to temperature changes during transport.
Moving a pinball machine can be straightforward if you take it step by step and handle it with care. Remember, the key is to protect all parts of the machine, move slowly, and get help when necessary to avoid injury or damage to the machine.