Expert: Rodger Knutson - 4/9/2011

Question
QUESTION: I have a Bally's #873 slot that suddenly will not allow the reels to turn. The handle seems jammed, and I can't decifer anything from the manual. Any clue to where I should look first, Roger? It lights up and all was working fine for many years. It probably was neglected in the maintainance department over the years. Also, is there a market for these machines, in case I can get it repaired here in Florida? Thanks much!

ANSWER: Hi Jim,

There is a Bally Mechanic in Florida that may be close to you, his email is: foxsslots@tampabay.rr.com
Boy, this problem could be a host of things. Do you have a good manual for it? The reels don't turn and the handle is jammed is not any help to me either. You need to remove the mechanism and see it it will play OK out of the case first, then try your Handel, I mean why don't the reels turn? Is this because the handel will not pull? does it say insert coin, if so, does this go out after inserting coins? To try to fix a machine over some typing like this is a big and hard job, and I am sure you know this but so much more detail needs to be known first. If you need something different in manuals there are some here:

http://jackpot7.freeyellow.com/page21.html

There is even a Bally E/M trouble shooting guide listed there which would cover your model of Slot machine.

Rodger
Http://www.coinslots.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, Rodger! Interestingly, I put a bit more effort into looking at different things, and what I discovered is this: Apparently the last time it was used, the coin distributor jammed, and there were some coins that were supposed to be released that never were. After monkeying with it, I heard it spinning and added enough coins to complete the cycle. Then I pulled the handle a bit harder, and by golly, it turned the reels. I did it a few more times, and it loosened up a bit more. The handle still does not release under it's own spring pressure, but does with a little encouragement. Maybe it'll free up a bit better with more use. Wondering if you could suggest what kind of lube should be used in these machines. WD? Or would it be better to use a lube that I use on my bicycle chain, which is called "ice wax", which is a cleaner and lube, and quite expensive. Any thoughts? Thanks for your help, Rodger!
Jim

Answer
Hi Jim,

The oil I use you can find at sears service center or most auto parts stores, it comes in a clear jug with a long spout you can pull way out and reach anything thing with. It's good fine oil, called a turbine oil I think, and comes in a couple of brands in the same package, ask for "zoom spout oil" as that is one of the brands. I see it sitting on the counters a lot. If you need there web site let me know and I'll find it for you. Here's the site:
http://www.zoomspoutoiler.com/

Also Jim, clean those pins on the back of the hopper and the reel mechanism with a wire brush or something, there made of aluminum and they corrode! This is where most problems are found, corroded aluminum Blu plug pins make many bad and none connecting connections. This is were a few handle problems are found, is you handle stiff, if so needs oil or service, if it is not unlocking electrically, there is a good chance the problem will be in the Blu plug pins.

Thank You
Rodger Knutson
http://www.coinslots.com