Expert: Larry Bieza - 12/26/2007

Question
Hi Larry. My wife and I recently inherited a 1948 Chicago Coin "Crazy Ball" pinball machine. It's in pretty good condition. It just needs some overhauling - rubbers, lights, waxing, and maybe some minor mechanical and electrical work. We want to restore it and keep in the family. We were wondering if you could recommend some restoration sources for early Chicago Coin pinball. We are concerned about giving to someone to restore before we consult some restoration books on how to properly restore early pinball machines without impacting the historical integrity and value of the machine. Also, do you have an idea what the value for this machine is? Also do know of any reputable restoration specialists in the Kansas City ares? Your assistance is greatly appreciated. Thanks, Todd


Answer
Hi Ted, Your 1948 Chicago Coin Crazy Ball was likely designed by Jerry Koci, one of the brilliant designers at that company.   He was an innovator, and brought some of that talent to your game.  The playfield of the game has a spinner that kicks the pinball in "Crazy" directions during game play.  This idea was used again many years later by Bally on their game Fireball.  Everybody thought the Fireball spinner was so novel, but it had already been done 25 years before!  
You are right to ask about historical integrity of the game.  So few people care about that.  Which is a bit of a problem in the hobby.  Currently many people want a "restored" game to have a totally repainted cabinet, many new parts, recoated playfield, etc, which places it in a totally different direction from other hobbies where restored isn't as valuable as nice original.  On my games I try to keep them as original as possible.  If there are some scratches and dings, that's okay.  These games were meant to be played, and should show it.  The only time I'll do major repaints and modifications is if the game is not salvageable without it.  Some day these unrestored original games will be much more rare, and consequently, more valuable.  For parts, try contacting Steve Young at www.pinballresource.com
Steve's been in the hobby forever and hopefully can steer you in the right direction.  Tell him I said hi!  As far as restoration, I don't know anyone in the KC area I can recommend.  To get the game running, there should be a local pinball mechanic that can help you.  Look under Amusement Devices in the yellow pages.  This game is not a terribly high value game, though, so you might want to keep an eye on how much you invest in it.  Value restored, assuming a nice backglass(glass with the art on it) probably $800.  Good luck!  Larry Bieza www.coinoplibrary.com