WTB: Robotron centering grommets

[DaveStall]

I'm looking for a pair of centering grommets for my Robotron machine (Wico joysticks).  I know these are getting hard to find and this is probably a common request, but if anybody has some of these available please let me know.

Thanks,

Dave

[Thenasty]

are they the same size a the Pacs ? if so maybe this is it.

http://www.centsibleamusements.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=386

[DarkKobold]

They are definately NOT the same size as pacs.  You need an old wico centering grommet. They are rather expensive when they show up on ebay.

[DaveStall]

From the looks of that picture, the Pacman grommet probably has a smaller center diameter than those used on my Robotron.  If somebody found a way to make these things, they would make a fortune.

Dave

[wakerlet]

From the looks of that picture, the Pacman grommet probably has a smaller center diameter than those used on my Robotron.  If somebody found a way to make these things, they would make a fortune.

Dave

I have two NOS Wico centering grommets that are exactly what you are looking for.   Would be willing to part with them for $30 shipped.  Let me know.

Thanks,
Todd

[Thenasty]

if its only the diameter of the HOLE for the shaft to go in, can't you BORE/DRILL some to make the hole bigger so the ROBOTRON sticks fits in ?

[DaveStall]

From the looks of that picture, the Pacman grommet probably has a smaller center diameter than those used on my Robotron.  If somebody found a way to make these things, they would make a fortune.

Dave

I have two NOS Wico centering grommets that are exactly what you are looking for.   Would be willing to part with them for $30 shipped.  Let me know.

Thanks,
Todd

That sounds fantastic to me.  I will PM you so we can set something up.  Thanks!

Dave

[RayB]

I've mentioned this before... I'm pretty sure the grommets used in those old Home controllers Wico made are the same. I have opened up "Command Control" joysticks (the red and black kind) and they appear to be exactly the same, though I have not done a swap. (Maybe I could this weekend just to confirm).

You can find these controllers in thrift stores for a buck or two. On Ebay, as low as maybe $5. I think it's worth doing this because home joysticks didn't see nearly as much abuse as arcade joys, so chances are the grommets are in excellent condition. Add to that the fact that they are in side a closed plastic casing, they are not exposed to dust and other factors that could cause them to dry and crack.

[DaveStall]

Ray,

I am pretty sure you are correct that the grommets in the command control sticks would work.  But, I think that idea has started to catch on, as I have been seeing these sticks go for around $10 each on Ebay recently (unless there are lots of retro computer gamers in need of new sticks).  If I can get N.O.S. grommets for a little more it's worth it to me.  I am still hoping to get my hands on a command control stick so I can see for sure if the grommets are the same (you can never have too many spare parts   ).  It is a great suggestion, and if I do get a stick for a low price I will be sure to mention what I find here.

As far as boring out a Pacman grommet, I think the real problem is that the grommets (both Pacman and the Williams style) have a metal bushing in the center that sort of forms a convex shape where the joystick enters.  Trying to get the grommet drilled out to the exact size to put a different bushing in while creating the correct shape might be difficult, but it is an interesting idea.

Thanks again for everyone's help!

Dave


 

[spidermonkey]

RayB,
I can confirm this because I just swapped one and tried it. They are the *exact* same grommets down to a tee ! The Wico Command Control stick that I pulled the grommet from was the bat style handle with a white fire button on top. I don't have any with the ball top handle but I would bet that they're the same as well.
Good find RayB !

[delta88]

i think I have a bunch of busted wicos in a box. might be good for the gromets.. lemme check

I had to repl;ace them in my robotron, but i had new wicos in there boxes