Why Regular Playfield Cleaning Matters
A dirty playfield is more than just cosmetic. The invisible grit acts like sandpaper, slowly wearing down the lacquer or clearcoat finish every time the steel ball rolls across it. This friction also dramatically slows down the game, leading to sticky shots and less exciting gameplay. Cleaning ensures a faster, smoother, and more authentic arcade experience.
Phase 1: Preparation and Safety First
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather these essential, playfield-safe materials:
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- Playfield Cleaner: Novus #1 (for light cleaning) and Novus #2 (for scratch removal/polishing).
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- Microfiber Cloths: Several clean, soft cloths to avoid scratching.
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- High-Quality Wax: Specifically a carnauba-based wax (like Novus #3 or specialized pinball wax).
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- Rubbing Alcohol: For cleaning metal rails and parts (never directly on the wood playfield!).
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- Soft Brush/Swabs: For tight, hard-to-reach areas.
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- Gloves: To keep oils from your hands off the playfield.
Step 2: Power Down and Open Up
Keep Your Game Fast, Shiny, and Looking Brand New
Every true pinball enthusiast knows the feeling, the satisfying clack of a powerful flipper, the smooth glide of the ball, and the captivating artwork. But over time, even the most cherished pinball machines collect dirt, dust, and grime. This buildup doesn’t just look bad—it slows down the ball, affects rubber elasticity, and can even damage the playfield clearcoat.
At dmvpinballs.shop, we believe that regular maintenance is key to maximizing fun and protecting your investment. While major work might call for our home service repair, cleaning the playfield is a rewarding task you can do yourself. This comprehensive, step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your game shines like the day it left the factory!
Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or a small vacuum (with a soft brush attachment) to remove loose dust, fuzz, and grit. Also, retrieve the steel ball (it’s often the single dirtiest component) and set it aside to be cleaned separately later.
Step 4: Clean Rubbers and Plastics
Remove all rubber rings and sleeves. You can clean these with a mild detergent and water, or simply replace them if they are old, cracked, or hardened (we recommend replacing them annually for optimal performance). Use a plastic-safe cleaner on any removable plastic pieces, such as ramps or decorative tops.
Step 5: Playfield Cleaning (The Novus Method)
For most modern, clear-coated playfields, follow these steps:
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- Novus #2 (Polishing): Apply a small amount of Novus #2 (or your preferred polish) to a clean microfiber cloth. Work in small, circular motions on a specific section of the playfield to remove minor scuffs and deeper grime. Wipe clean immediately with a dry cloth.
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- Novus #1 (Final Clean): Once all major scuffs are gone, use Novus #1 as a final light cleaner across the entire surface to remove any residue left by the #2.
Professional Tip: Always test cleaners in a small, inconspicuous area first, especially on older or non-clear-coated playfields.
Phase 3: Polishing and Assembly
Step 6: Wax for Protection
This is arguably the most important step for longevity. Wax creates a protective barrier that reduces friction and shields the playfield from future dirt and ball marks. Apply a thin, even coat of carnauba wax to the entire playfield (avoiding direct contact with rubber posts). Let it haze for a few minutes, then buff it off until the surface is slick and shiny. This step is crucial for maintaining the speed of your arcade pinball games.
Step 7: Clean the Ball and Metal
The steel ball gets incredibly dirty and should be cleaned or replaced. You can clean it by tumbling it in a jar with Isopropyl rubbing alcohol and drying it thoroughly. Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a swab to clean metal rails, wireforms, and posts. Never use alcohol directly on the playfield artwork.
Step 8: Reassemble and Test
Replace the rubber rings and plastics. Lower the playfield, replace the cleaned pinball, and carefully slide the glass back into place. Plug the machine in and fire up a game. You’ll immediately notice the difference: a faster ball, smoother ramps, and a vibrant, beautiful machine!
If you encounter issues during this process, or if your pinball machine needs more than just a deep clean, remember that dmvpinballs.shop is here to help with all your repair and maintenance needs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I clean my pinball playfield?
A: It depends on how often you play. For casual players (a few games a week), a full playfield clean every 6 to 12 months is usually sufficient. Heavy or commercial use may require cleaning every 1 to 3 months.
Q: Can I use Windex or glass cleaner on the playfield?
A: No. Never use Windex, common household cleaners, or alcohol-based solutions directly on the playfield. These products can slowly damage the clearcoat and permanently haze or fade the artwork, especially on older machines.
Q: What is the benefit of waxing the playfield?
A: Waxing creates a sacrificial layer over the clearcoat. It protects the playfield from ball marks, prevents dirt from bonding directly to the finish, and dramatically reduces friction, making the ball fly faster and smoother.
Q: I have a sticky flipper/dead bumper after cleaning. What should I do?
A: Cleaning the surface won’t fix internal electrical or mechanical issues. If you notice operational problems, it’s time for a professional. Contact dmvpinballs.shop to schedule our in-shop or home service repair.