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Arcade Collecting => Pinball => Topic started by: koolmoecraig on September 17, 2008, 06:57:07 pm

Title: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 17, 2008, 06:57:07 pm
I recently picked up a Williams Indiana Jones(not the inferior IJ4 by Stern).  This machine has been a holy grail of mine since I first played one.  Yes, that horrible pun was intended.

It was in good shape with the normal cabinet fading.  I was just gonna live with it but decided what the hell, why not do a complete restoration down to the last nut and bolt?

I have stripped the entire cabinet bare and I am in the middle of sanding and prepping the sides for new decals.  The original decals came off pretty easily with the help of a heat gun....

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040207.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040209.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040240.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040245.jpg)

I have been patching holes and sanding like crazy.  I'm trying to get the sides as smooth as glass for the decals.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040251.jpg)

Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 17, 2008, 07:02:18 pm
Here is the underside of the playfield before stripping everything from it.  Yeah, I'm pretty screwed with getting this thing back together.  Hopefully it looks worse than it is...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1030615.jpg)

I took tons of pictures of the disassembly but something tells me I am going to have some questions during the reassembly.

 
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 17, 2008, 07:07:11 pm
The playfield is in great shape with hardly any wear at all.  Since I am going overboard on this restoration, I begged Chris Hutchins at "High End Pins" to restore and clearcoat the playfield for me.  He finally agreed to squeeze it in for me.

Before clearcoat:
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1030851.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 17, 2008, 07:11:43 pm
I went ahead and bought a Berry's tumbler for the metal parts.  This thing is pretty awesome.  Throw in the parts along with some walnut shell media and metal polish, let it run for a day or so and the parts come out looking almost like they've been chromed.

http://www.berrysmfg.com/82.php
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: pinballwizard79 on September 19, 2008, 10:32:06 pm
after you successfully reassemble that machine I am going to have even more questions for you  ;D
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: Wade on September 23, 2008, 11:12:57 am
Enjoy the process while it's interesting.  I have only done a few 90's pin shop jobs, but I'm not looking forward to ever doing one again.  The end result is nice and something to be proud of, but the time involved is ridiculous unless you really just love to do it.  I could do so many bigger, more useful things in the same amount of time.  About halfway through, the fun and excitement is over and I just want it to be finished.  I guess it was good while I found it interesting, but now it's just a chore.  There's my downer for the day. ;)

This should end up really nice.  The clearcoat will look awesome.  I've never gone that far with a restoration but I see the appeal in the finished product.

Wade
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 23, 2008, 02:37:47 pm
Enjoy the process while it's interesting.  I have only done a few 90's pin shop jobs, but I'm not looking forward to ever doing one again.  The end result is nice and something to be proud of, but the time involved is ridiculous unless you really just love to do it.  I could do so many bigger, more useful things in the same amount of time.  About halfway through, the fun and excitement is over and I just want it to be finished.  I guess it was good while I found it interesting, but now it's just a chore.  There's my downer for the day. ;)

This should end up really nice.  The clearcoat will look awesome.  I've never gone that far with a restoration but I see the appeal in the finished product.

Wade

You nailed it right on the head.  I'm already over it.  I thought posting my progress on here might make it fun again!

I doubt I will ever do one again.  The fact that I'm doing this in my 2 bedroom condo without a garage makes it even worse.

Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 23, 2008, 03:27:39 pm
Next time do a machine that didn't already start off "fairly new" and "in nice shape".

 ;)

This one was actually "The best one I've ever seen!"
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: Wade on September 23, 2008, 06:42:43 pm
Enjoy the process while it's interesting.  I have only done a few 90's pin shop jobs, but I'm not looking forward to ever doing one again.  The end result is nice and something to be proud of, but the time involved is ridiculous unless you really just love to do it.  I could do so many bigger, more useful things in the same amount of time.  About halfway through, the fun and excitement is over and I just want it to be finished.  I guess it was good while I found it interesting, but now it's just a chore.  There's my downer for the day. ;)

This should end up really nice.  The clearcoat will look awesome.  I've never gone that far with a restoration but I see the appeal in the finished product.

Wade

You nailed it right on the head.  I'm already over it.  I thought posting my progress on here might make it fun again!

I doubt I will ever do one again.  The fact that I'm doing this in my 2 bedroom condo without a garage makes it even worse.


But on the other hand...  You'll have a super nice pin, if you can just keep it and be happy with it and don't sell/trade it for something else that needs work then you'd probably end up happier in the long run.  That's part of my problem, I tend to give up good games and pick up more projects.  I've decided the best thing would be to just keep 1 or 2 super nice pins and be happy.  Fix what breaks and wipe them down occasionally.  Get "new game" kicks by playing other collectors games or going to shows/arcades.

Wade
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 23, 2008, 10:17:32 pm
After tackling this project, the $2-$3000 that High End Pins charges for a complete restoration is flat out cheap.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 24, 2008, 06:12:50 pm
I just got finished with the shooter gun assembly.

I always thought having the gun plated looked lame so I had the gun powder coated satin black.  I then masked off everything but the handle with liquid mask.  Finally I shot it with brown Krylon. I think it turned out pretty damn sweet.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040272.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: solid187 on September 25, 2008, 11:02:15 am
Easy  ;D...I'm one of those idiots.  I actually bought my machine restored and the rails, lockdown, and gun were alreadybrass z-plated.  But I agree, the gun above looks tits.  Nice job.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on September 25, 2008, 01:55:51 pm
I am getting the side rails and lockdown bar brass plated.  Gives it that Ark look.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: pinballwizard79 on September 28, 2008, 02:17:40 am
He said it looks tits, haven't heard that in so long............gonna work that into my vocabulary tomorrow somehow for sure.  :cheers:

I have never played a clear coated machine, does it play different than factory "diamond plated" machines?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: StephenH on September 29, 2008, 03:28:31 am
Here is some technical restoration info for your Pinball System:

http://www.pinrepair.com/wpc/index1.htm#list
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on October 24, 2008, 06:01:46 am
I installed the front and right side decal tonight.  They turned out really well.  The only trouble I had was right near the start button.  A piece of my dogs hair got under there and I had to slice the decal to get it out. Luckily it's barely noticeable.

Everything all primed and ready to go.  I didn't paint it black underneath like some people cause I think that the black paint can have a dulling effect under the decal.  I used Kilz primer sanded smooth with 400 grit.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040306.jpg)

First I measured and marked the center on the cabinet.  The center coin door bolt holes are dead-center so I just marked straight down from the middle of them.  I put a little mark with a pencil on the bottom of the cab.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040324.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040295.jpg)

Next I trimmed down the bottom and sides of the decal.  Trimming the side before install doesn't really matter but it's much easier to center when you have the bottom perfectly set how its going to be by cutting it with a t-square beforehand.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040327.jpg)

Front decal lined up and clamped.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040547.jpg)

Decal installed.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040556.jpg)

Side decal clamped.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040552.jpg)

Installed.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040554.jpg)

I'm really happy with everything so far.  I will never do one of these again though.  It takes so damn long and it's a bottomless money pit.  Being close to done with the tedious cabinet work is something to look forward to.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on October 24, 2008, 04:39:48 pm
He said it looks tits, haven't heard that in so long............gonna work that into my vocabulary tomorrow somehow for sure.  :cheers:

I have never played a clear coated machine, does it play different than factory "diamond plated" machines?

I've never played a clear coated pin either.  It will be fun finding out.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: StephenH on November 04, 2008, 04:31:50 am
Here is some technical info for your Pinball:

http://www.pinrepair.com/wpc/index1.htm#list
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 04, 2008, 01:01:45 pm
Here is some technical info for your Pinball:

http://www.pinrepair.com/wpc/index1.htm#list

Yeah, you said that already.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 09, 2008, 06:54:41 am
Made some progress...

I finally got the cabinet up on it's legs.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040564-1.jpg)

As you can see, I painted the inside of the cabinet a satin black.

The legs are brass plated, highly polished legs from Pinball Life.  The finish is awesome.  I used some clear "Pincab" protectors to keep the legs from damaging the new decals.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040567.jpg)

Yummy...
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040665.jpg)

Installed the shooter gun...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040575.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040663.jpg)

I installed all new grounding braid as well...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040589.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040590.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040593.jpg)

After installing the wiring harness I installed some side board decals from Treasure Cove.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040627.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040644.jpg)

The quality of the decals is is great.  A little pricey though...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040699.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040677.jpg)

Also installed a Pinball Pro Subwoofer...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040679.jpg)

I went a little crazy and got all of the carriage bolts brass plated.  They turned out incredible!

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040653.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040675.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040659.jpg)

After the Bears beat the undefeated Titans today, I will be installing the backboard head decals.  My playfield is coming back from clearcoat next week.  All of the cabinet work has been time consuming and nerve wracking.  I am looking forward to repopulating the playfield. 




 

Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 09, 2008, 09:00:15 pm
OK, so maybe the Bears couldn't handle the Titans today...
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 11, 2008, 12:05:43 am
Had the lockdown latch brass plated and installed new "shop out" decals.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040732.jpg)

I used Plasti Dip to redo the handle.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040742.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040750.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: shardian on November 11, 2008, 08:18:03 am
Wow, this thing is looking incredibly sharp! Since they are from treasure Cove, I am assuming those side skirt decals are completely aftermarket created? Either way they are really neat.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 11, 2008, 01:22:59 pm
Wow, this thing is looking incredibly sharp! Since they are from treasure Cove, I am assuming those side skirt decals are completely aftermarket created? Either way they are really neat.

Thank you.

Yeah they are custom made.  Here is a pic of them installed.  Pretty sweet.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/sidedecals.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 14, 2008, 08:39:16 pm
I got the playfield back from HEP today and it is simply stunning.  It was touched up around some of the inserts, minor repairs to the eject and saucer holes and clearcoated.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040768.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040771.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040774.jpg)

Perfection!

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040777.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040794.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040797.jpg)

Shooter lane is perfect.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040799.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040801.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040815.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration has begun!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 14, 2008, 08:45:32 pm
Needs an Inspected by J. E. Santiago sticker



Definitely.

Have a source for any?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: SirPeale on November 15, 2008, 12:46:52 pm
Holy carp...I can't believe how shiny that is.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on November 19, 2008, 01:27:18 pm
It took a long time but I finally finished polishing all of metal for my playfield.  It's not brushed like stock but all of the older machines used to use highly polished pieces and it looks incredible.  The mirror-like reflections really give the playfield an open feeling.  Plus they probably only stopped using it because of cost.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040933.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040938.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040940.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040944.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040952.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1040957.jpg)

I'm waiting on my rotisserie.  Once that arrives I can begin reassembly.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: JeepMonkey on December 02, 2008, 03:59:46 pm
Beautiful work so far.  :cheers:    I myself have only attempted a topside playfield teardown, clean, and reassemble.  This looks like a fun, albeit difficult, project.

Was the bronzing or clear coating expensive?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: shardian on December 02, 2008, 04:20:04 pm
That clearcoat is amazing. I'm working on buffing a clearcoat right now. While mine may be shiny, it is not even close to the same league as that perfection your is.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on December 02, 2008, 06:25:00 pm
Beautiful work so far.  :cheers:    I myself have only attempted a topside playfield teardown, clean, and reassemble.  This looks like a fun, albeit difficult, project.

Was the bronzing or clear coating expensive?

It really is a pain in the ass.  So much to do and the costs keep adding up.

The clearcoating wasnt cheap.  For the playfield touch up and clear it was about $600.

The brass plating wasn't too bad.  I used a local place.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: 2PacMan on December 03, 2008, 02:58:26 pm
Wow, this looks great so far.  I think i'd be too scared to even play the thing when it is all finished.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: Mauzy on December 03, 2008, 11:13:50 pm
AWESOME!! I would love to do something like this, but my luck says I would spend all this money on clear coating, brass plating, and decals only to blow up the board set putting the thing back together.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: shardian on December 05, 2008, 03:41:39 pm
AWESOME!! I would love to do something like this, but my luck says I would spend all this money on clear coating, brass plating, and decals only to blow up the board set putting the thing back together.

My luck would have me drop that restored playfield and ruin it.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on December 05, 2008, 09:00:31 pm
I decided to go with blue bumper skirts instead of the red or yellow that everyone usually uses.  I think it picks up with the rest of the blue nicely...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050141.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050167.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on December 05, 2008, 09:10:10 pm
The polished metal parts REALLY "extend" the playfield.  Of course, most of them wont be visible when everything is installed but they sure look pretty now!  The ones that are visible are gonna look great with light bouncing off of them.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050148.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050159.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050154.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050165.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050164.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050172.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050162.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050149.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on December 05, 2008, 09:31:52 pm
Check out the ceiling fan reflection :)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050179.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: Hockeyboy on December 07, 2008, 03:17:58 am
Your pinball machine just keeps looking better and better! Thanks for the update.

Man, I loved playing IJ pinball too...but there's no way I could devote the time you have to a project such as this...
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on December 07, 2008, 04:34:33 am
Your pinball machine just keeps looking better and better! Thanks for the update.

Man, I loved playing IJ pinball too...but there's no way I could devote the time you have to a project such as this...

I hear that.  This has taken quite a while.  I started in May.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on December 12, 2008, 03:21:38 am
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050334.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050304.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050293.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050320.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050331.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050326.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050315.jpg)

Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration TONS OF PICS!
Post by: koolmoecraig on December 27, 2008, 01:20:50 am
More...


(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050688.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050692.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050696.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050697.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050703.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050704.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050713.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050712.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050674.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050683.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050676.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050684.jpg)


Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Boz on January 24, 2009, 01:28:23 pm
Other than elbow grease, what did you use to shine your metal parts, ramps, etc.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on January 24, 2009, 08:34:22 pm
WOW! First I have seen this post, amazing job bro!!!!  :applaud:

I see you install the plastic protectors, doing so today here with my MB. Where did you order yours from, they look nice?.

Sooooo... I got to ask, how much you got rolled into this pin?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on January 25, 2009, 02:41:13 am
Other than elbow grease, what did you use to shine your metal parts, ramps, etc.

A Dremel with some polishing rouge followed by Mothers aluminum wheel polish and about 100 cotton rags.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Boz on January 25, 2009, 12:38:50 pm
Other than elbow grease, what did you use to shine your metal parts, ramps, etc.

A Dremel with some polishing rouge followed by Mothers aluminum wheel polish and about 100 cotton rags.

A Dremel. Damn. Never even occurred to me.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on January 25, 2009, 07:12:24 pm
koolmoecraig....

No reply to my questions?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on January 25, 2009, 10:38:45 pm
Sorry man.  I replied last night but I guess it didn't post...

Thank you for the kind words.

The protectors are from orbitpinball.com.  They have lots of great products.

I've saved all of my receipts basically treating this thing like a car restoration.  I haven't sat down added it up but I figure it's probably close to $2000 in parts, clearcoating, brass plating and WAY too much time. The machine itself was $3000.



Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on January 26, 2009, 07:17:43 am
NP... Yeah I spoke to Frank on the phone the other day from Orbit Pinball, nice guy with great products... Same place I got my protectors too.  ;)

I think the game is worth it, I mean it looks amazing and the $$$ adds up easy especially with small parts. Hell I think I just blew about 100 bucks on LEDs alone!

I'll have 5g wrapped up in mine soon enough.  :dizzy:
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: metahugh on January 26, 2009, 08:40:07 am
WOW, incredible restoration.  You definitely went further than I did with my IJ restoration.

So how did you get HEP to CC your playfield?  I am doing a similar restore on my AFM with a brand new playfield and I would love to get HEP to re-clearcoat my new PF.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on January 26, 2009, 11:17:08 am
I kinda wish my MB was CC since it is in such good shape but I am hoping if I keep after it, I would imagine it will hold up well.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on January 26, 2009, 03:44:22 pm
It will hold up just fine in a home environment.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: pinballwizard79 on January 26, 2009, 10:15:36 pm
I want to make out with this machine.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on January 27, 2009, 07:09:55 am
I want to make out with this machine.

You'll have to wait in line.  ;)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on January 28, 2009, 10:13:29 pm
Left ramp in.  I customized it with a little cobra.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050948.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on January 28, 2009, 10:17:07 pm
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050950.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: More Cowbell on January 29, 2009, 05:57:24 pm
I wish I had your patience. I end up doing everything 80% so that I can get it done.  :applaud:
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Flake on January 31, 2009, 12:33:33 am
Mmmmmmmm.....................Sweet loking Indiana Jones.............Aaaaarrrrrrggggggghhhhhhhhhhhh..........

Only in my wildest dreams.........
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Zero_Hour on February 02, 2009, 01:33:13 am
The polished ramps are just stunning, as is the rest of the machine. Nice work.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on February 03, 2009, 08:42:32 am
How does the game play with the PF cleared? There is a thread over on RGP right now with a few people stating how bad they dislike the play.

The look is certainly amazing though...
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 03, 2009, 02:04:58 pm
How does the game play with the PF cleared? There is a thread over on RGP right now with a few people stating how bad they dislike the play.

The look is certainly amazing though...

I don't know if you have noticed but my game isn't finished yet. :)

I am looking forward to finding out how it plays though.  I imagine it's ridiculous until some rubber builds up to slow down the field.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on February 03, 2009, 02:43:36 pm
I guess I really didn't take notice that it was not completely done.

What's all left to do at this point?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Cyberflexx on February 03, 2009, 03:50:40 pm

I've saved all of my receipts basically treating this thing like a car restoration.  I haven't sat down added it up but I figure it's probably close to $2000 in parts, clearcoating, brass plating and WAY too much time. The machine itself was $3000.



DAMN!!!!  Are you going to play it when it's done or just look at it?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 03, 2009, 08:32:07 pm
What's all left to do at this point?

I'm waiting for the side rails and wireforms to come back from being re-plated.  I wasn't happy at all with the original plating job.

Once I get the side rails back and installed, I can put the back board on.  Connect all the wires, get some playfield glass and I'll be good to go.  Assuming I didn't muck anything up during the tear down and rebuild.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on February 04, 2009, 07:21:25 am
Wiring... Won't that be fun!  :cry:
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 04, 2009, 07:35:43 am
Wiring... Won't that be fun!  :cry:

Naaa, everything on the playfield is pretty much all connected.  By wiring I meant putting the plugs back on the PCBs.  I THINK I marked everything correctly so it should go smoothly.

For some reason my biggest concern right now is mounting the side rails.  Ya get one shot and I fear im gonna muck it up.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on February 04, 2009, 08:50:01 am
Wiring... Won't that be fun!  :cry:

Naaa, everything on the playfield is pretty much all connected.  By wiring I meant putting the plugs back on the PCBs.  I THINK I marked everything correctly so it should go smoothly.

For some reason my biggest concern right now is mounting the side rails.  Ya get one shot and I fear im gonna muck it up.

Just take your time and I am sure you will be fine. I wish I lived closer, I would love to help out on a project like this. I really enjoy the pictures, keep up the good work!

I would besure to stick those side rails on there real good.

BTW... What other pins do you own, if any?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 04, 2009, 07:30:02 pm
Are you doing the display panel and lost mines mods?  I don't care for IJ but those both look pretty neat.

http://www.orbitpinball.com/proddetail.asp?prod=IJ-DMDPanel-MOD (http://www.orbitpinball.com/proddetail.asp?prod=IJ-DMDPanel-MOD)

Do you mean the "Lost Plastic" mod?  I did install that. You can see it in the pictures.  I did get the display panel mod from Orbit.  I'll be installing that when I get to the backboard.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 04, 2009, 07:36:12 pm


BTW... What other pins do you own, if any?
[/quote]

I just cleaned house actually.

I had a Baby Pac-Man that I just sold along with a Getaway pinball machine.  Right now I am down to the Indiana Jones here, Attack From Mars and my Q*bert Mame machine that I built a few years back.  I would like to have a Cactus Canyon someday but the cost is just too much.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: Visitor Q on February 05, 2009, 07:19:23 am
Is your AFM in this good of shape?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 05, 2009, 05:34:20 pm
Is your AFM in this good of shape?

No. It's in excellent condition but nowhere near this thing.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 05, 2009, 05:39:37 pm
Got the apron back from being re-powdercoated.  New decals installed.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050957-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 05, 2009, 05:45:13 pm
Decided it would be cool to light up the "Path of Adventure".  I mounted 6 SMD LEDs that will be powered off of the 12vdc that goes to the Path's motor PCB.  It turned out great.  The LEDs are held in place by some clear RTV sealant.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050971_2.jpg)

Crotch shot :)
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1050978.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: pinballwizard79 on February 05, 2009, 08:17:24 pm
please stop posting this machine

it hurts me to see something so freaking nice that isnt mine

custom leds, repowder coated what & clear coated by HEP?

whats next: a date eating monkey as a topper?

be my friend, move to STL & travel a lot so I can spend alone time with it

the house next to me i s for sale (the entire neighborhood is actually :-))
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 05, 2009, 09:22:52 pm
What makes you think I can afford a house after becoming enslaved to this thing?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: pinballwizard79 on February 05, 2009, 10:06:20 pm
Straw buyer it up, HELOC it out & then foreclose away!

 >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D

Kidding about that, I dont need any more deprecation.





Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Playfield is in!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 05, 2009, 11:05:51 pm
Installed the Path of Adventure and the outside ball return slide...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1060067.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1060104.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/P1060110.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: Visitor Q on February 06, 2009, 07:15:58 am
You a big Indy fan? Why the special treatment for this game? Not saying Indy is not a good game, it's a great game but I was just wondering while you picked this one?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 06, 2009, 04:47:53 pm
You a big Indy fan? Why the special treatment for this game? Not saying Indy is not a good game, it's a great game but I was just wondering while you picked this one?

Indy and The Getaway are the first two pins that I really got into.  I just really liked the game back in the day.  If I had my Attack From Mars before I started on this restoration I might have done it to that instead.

I did it basically because I wanted to give myself a little project and to tell you the truth, I find pinball machines a lot more interesting than video games now.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: Zero_Hour on February 06, 2009, 06:30:36 pm
I did it basically because I wanted to give myself a little project...

I shudder to think what you consider a major project. Cant wait to see youpost some pics when this one is finished and all lit up.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: koolmoecraig on February 07, 2009, 02:54:35 am
Unbolting parts, sending them to someone else, and bolting them back together is not a major project, Zero_Hour.

 ;)

The only parts that I sent out were the playfield and brass.  Doesn't my cabinet work, metal polishing and mods count for anything?

Jeeesh.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: RichSorr on February 08, 2009, 01:13:37 pm
cannot even begin to tell you how jealous i am. looks incredible, i wish i had the time and money to do something like that.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: studmuff on February 12, 2009, 09:55:20 pm
I like how I can see your camera reflecting off the mirror finish you have on the ramp leaving the PoA.  Very Nice job.  Hope you enjoy playing it after all that work.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: koolmoecraig on April 08, 2009, 01:38:20 am
99.9% done.   Just need to install the air planes.  I think I'm going to leave off the bi-plane.  I like having the playfield less cluttered.

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/59b06f03.jpg)

Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: Flake on April 08, 2009, 09:59:28 am
Damn that thing is pretty.   :applaud:
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: shardian on April 09, 2009, 09:32:57 am
It is absolutely beautiful!

I have to say that you are in for a very depressing moment soon. After I finished my resto, I was convinced it would stay beautiful for quite some time. For the last 2 weeks, we have played the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- out of the game though, and it shows.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: Zero_Hour on April 09, 2009, 11:48:12 am
Nicely done.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: koolmoecraig on April 10, 2009, 01:21:38 am
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/18469533.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/1a0fc479.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/5b3b0c3e.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/366848c3.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/61c5f1cf.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration...Tons 'o pics!
Post by: koolmoecraig on April 10, 2009, 01:29:12 am
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/8c3ac89d.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/058b31c8.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/9dde1f46.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/c39490ae.jpg)

Went a little crazy with the brass plating...

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/d5c2c3e7.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: koolmoecraig on April 10, 2009, 01:31:53 am
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/b1a119ee.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: pinballwizard79 on April 10, 2009, 02:01:32 am
Ahem, your Qbert cabinet is all scratched up.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: Flake on April 10, 2009, 09:17:38 am
Ahem, your Qbert cabinet is all scratched up.

 :laugh2: :laugh2: :laugh2:

But seriously.....absolutely beautiful.  Make me feel better by telling me you have about $6000 in this.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: pinballwizard79 on April 10, 2009, 11:47:11 am
Its cool how when the light hits it just right you see it glowing with money & obsessive traits, awesome!

Trash pickup is today, I need to throw away my pinball machines now so I gotta go  :cheers:

Do you happen to have the first pic on flickr but larger?

Because man that's so cool I want it to be my PC's wallpaper till my GF changes it.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: koolmoecraig on April 12, 2009, 08:59:12 pm
Thanks for the kind words.

I don't think that I will ever tackle a restoration like this ever again.

More pics:

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/005cd202.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/1bcb6bb2.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/04158426.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/38b8a2d6.jpg)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y125/koolmoecraig/IJ/35a2d4d7.jpg)
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: JonProphet on April 12, 2009, 09:19:28 pm
Ok, we have to know. How does it play?

Or is the thing to damn pretty to send a chrome plated steel ball down it?

It is now just a piece of art, u may as well take the legs off put a frame arond it and just marvel at it!  :dizzy:

-JD-
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: pinballwizard79 on April 13, 2009, 06:03:36 pm
Pft, whatever.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: koolmoecraig on April 13, 2009, 06:57:34 pm
I only have about 20 plays on it but it plays incredible.

Fast but not too fast.  Smooth as hell and the ball still bites.  Doesn't just float on the surface.

I'm really happy with it.  I wish someone would make white rubber rings that are more firm like the black rings.  The white ones play too "softly".

Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: Wade on April 14, 2009, 06:42:12 pm
Why did you install dirty flipper rubbers on it?? ;)

That game looks incredible.  I don't know if I could enjoy playing a game that nice.  Might feel guilting walking it across the floor with slam saves. :)  Seriously!  That game looks so nice I'd feel bad putting fingerprints on it.  Honestly, I would sell a game that nice if I could break even.  It'd break my heart to see things wearing on it.

IJ is one of those games that's REALLY easy to do saves on the right outlane.  Bump it at the right time and you'll save the drain 90% of the time.  I've had a couple marathon games on IJ before.  Once you get into the zone it seems like you just can't drain...

Most people like the bouncier white rubber and slippery balls, I'm surprised you like the black better!  You can always put black rubber on it.  In my experience, black rubber doesn't make all the black dirt/dust like so many people say it does.  I think the black stuff comes from the other metal parts more than the rubber.  I've had freshly shopped games with black rubber and never had a problem with dirt building.

Totally jealous!!

Wade
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: JonProphet on April 14, 2009, 09:27:43 pm
Still very nice. Congrats on the nice work.

-JD-
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: Silas (son of Silas) on May 04, 2009, 02:55:48 pm
 :applaud: Good Skills....  :notworthy:
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: Jeff AMN on May 18, 2009, 05:52:46 pm
I just saw this and I'm blown away. This is great work.

I thought I was awesome for disassembling my dad's pinball machine, waxing it, rebuilding the flippers, and changing out his bulbs for him. Now I just feel...weak.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: JonProphet on October 07, 2009, 11:51:54 am
Thanks for bringing this to the top. Now that I have an IJ and I will be restoring it with a CC'd PF (not from Chris) but I won't be going over board as you did. I have been going back and forth on applying new decals. I like the gun though....

-JD-
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: Jeff AMN on October 07, 2009, 01:06:47 pm
I'm picking mine up on Saturday. I'll be doing my gun like yours. MUCH better than the brass treatment.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: MameMaster! on October 28, 2009, 01:36:15 pm
Stunning. Really amazing attention to detail. Fantastic job.

You just got a mention in the Dec GameRoom news section. You earned it big time.

Enjoy your beautiful new machine.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: KevSteele on October 28, 2009, 05:50:56 pm
Stunning. Really amazing attention to detail. Fantastic job.

You just got a mention in the Dec GameRoom news section. You earned it big time.

Enjoy your beautiful new machine.  :cheers:

Yeah - nice job! Heck, you've got some great photos of every step of the way -- any way I could convince you to chronicle your adventure as an article for GameRoom Magazine?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: koolmoecraig on January 03, 2011, 03:00:04 pm
Thinking about selling if anyone is interested...
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: Jeff AMN on January 04, 2011, 02:11:53 pm
I know somebody looking for one. Have a ballpark price range?
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: koolmoecraig on January 06, 2011, 05:59:31 pm
Around $7k

Shoot me a PM if interested.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: Pinball Wizard on January 06, 2011, 08:15:01 pm
I'd feel horrible selling such a nice machine! Knowing that someone else will own a holy grail of yours and will wear it away to nothing hurts. About to give a similar level treatment to a Centaur but I'm undecided on wether or not to strip and repaint the cabinet or not.
Title: Re: Indiana Jones Restoration..."Finished"
Post by: TechDante on January 06, 2011, 08:41:06 pm
nice work seeing this remids me of an old arcade i used to visit was easily me favoite pinball machine beutiful restoration