To MAME or not to MAME?

[dxvyper]

I got a Desert Patrol machine (http://www.klov.com/game_detail.php?letter=&game_id=7563) recently, and I'm trying to figue out what to do with it. The cab is in great shape, no scratches or chunks missing. The only thing that appears to be wrong with it is the monitor (an old B&W). When I got it, I also got a couple of spare B&W monitors, but I don't know a whole lot about troubleshooting those, and none of them are working immediately.

Basically, I'd like to get some opinions on whether I should spend some time, energy, and possibly money trying to restore this thing to its original state, or just MAME it.

[Gumby]

Seems a shame to MAME something thats 28 years old and in good working condition (monitor not withstanding)...

My opinion is to just MAME something crappy that needs a paint over, and let that unit go to a collector.

-G

[Goz]

I would also recommend against MAME-ing this cab. Not for the same reason, but rather that it would be an awkward MAME cab. What I mean by that is that with the overhang on top and the limited area to actually have a functioning control panel. You would likely need cut a large chunk out of the front of the cab. That could be a royal pain.

-Goz

[RayB]

Got pics?

Honestly it would be a SHAME to MAME this (a MAME SHAME! haha) This is a piece of game history that deserves to be preserved. Where do you live? I'll buy it off you if you are local.

[DaveMMR]

I'm a ridiculous sentimental that doesn't like to see any dedicated cab Mamed (not just the valueables) but I think what you have goes beyond just my hang-ups.  Leave that puppy alone.  

[dxvyper]

Thanks for the feedback. I'm leaning toward restoration myself, considering the pristine condition of the cab. Any suggestions on resources for troubleshooting a B&W monitor?

[RetroJames]

Is this the one from Atlanta?  Don't mame it, seems really pretty neat.  The guns look pretty cool!  What is the monitor doing (or not doing?)

[dxvyper]

Yeah, I drove a 10 1/2 round trip to pick it up.

No picture on the monitor, but the game makes noise like it is running.

[RetroJames]

That is a good score.  I am in Atlanta and really gave it some thought, but I am out of room...  You might consider just ebaying all three monitors and buying one that you know works to save yourself some hassle.  Or just take the best looking monitor to a tv repair shop and be done with it.  Post some pics too if you can.  

[RayB]

Check the monitor tube for a "glow" or that typical high pitched "tv" like sound. Got none of those, maybe it's not even receiving power.

Check for disconnected wires, and bent or loose connectors. (But be careful... I'm sure you've heard the warnings before about monitors and high voltages, EVEN WHEN THE POWER IS OFF).

[dxvyper]

The original monitor is already somewhat disassembled. The cap is off the back of the tube, and some pieces are detached from the circuit board. I might be best off taking it to a repair shop, as I'm not very knowledgeable about the internals of monitors. I'm starting a new thread in the monitor area to see if anyone can help me identify the make - I've got the model # but haven't been able to identify it.

Here's some pics of the front and side of the cab.

[dxvyper]

Front

[dxvyper]

Side

[paigeoliver]

What size monitor does it have?

Also, those black & white monitors are largely very reliable and very easy to work on. The only dead one I ever encountered was only dead because rats had chewed through some of the wires, I reconnected them and it came back to life.

Post a message on RGVAC, you SHOULD be able to find someone who can either provide a tested working monitor, test your monitors, or both.

I am in the St. Louis area and can test your monitors, and can provide a tested/working monitor IF it is a 23" model that you need.

[RetroJames]

Very nice cabinet, I am kicking myself for not grabbing it.  Dang marital vows...

[MiKman]

Bring back an older thread.  I too just bought one of these cabinets.  Mine is not nearly in as good of shape as yours however.  Do you think you could take a few snaps of the inside of your cabinet.  mine looks like it has been modified over the years and I want to attempt to restore it to it's best original condition...  more closeups of the marquee, instriction panel behind the gun.  inside the coin door, the coin door, inside the back. As many as you can would be appreciated.

If you don't want to post them here feel free to email them to me, bigger more detailed pictures are better :-)

Thanks

[MiKman]

Yeah, I drove a 10 1/2 round trip to pick it up.

No picture on the monitor, but the game makes noise like it is running.

After messing with my desert patrol cabinet I too thought the monitor was toast.  But after reading the manual for a bit (mine has a manual yippee!) anyhow there is a warm-up period before the game (and monitor) actually come on. I never timed it, but it seems to take about 3 min... I would plug it in and leave it for about 5 min and see if it ever comes on...