ernie wrote:Hello.I have rebuilt a variety of antique machines, but this is my first slot machine. I disassembled, cleaned and lubricated my Groetchen twice. I am learning a good deal, and it is working . . . a bit. My primary problem is controlling the star wheels. When I pull the handle, the first reel spins a few times and stops on its own. The second and third reels spin rapidly and then stop almost together as a plunger rod slides into the stars. This is the first post I have every made to any group. I hope it works. Thanks, any help would be appreciated.
The first reel may be impeded if the reel bundle axle bushings are set too close to the hubs; perhaps threading the left bushing out a little may provide more clearance for an easier spin. If the axle or inner concentric brass tubes are bent or severely worn, all you can do is replace the reel bundle.
Each reel should stop in sequence as its associated reel stop comes down... the payout plunger is not a reel stop! If the reel has not been stopped by the time the payout plunger probes it, you must have awful timing issues with your cycle. What I see in your pictures that provokes the greatest concern are the dog-eared vanes on the clock: you can't mess with a Columbia clock that way. A Columbia cannot function adequately (if at all) with anything but a solid, reliable clock: even a little wear can adversely affect the cycle, so those bent vanes indicate serious trouble to me.
Posted: Mon Jan 18, 2021 9:55 am