Reels Not Stiff, But Spin, Game Plays.

[Ash100]

Hello all,

I've been testing some S+ MPU Borads in my Test Machine and finally encountered a problem I've never seen before.

I've got one that works almost perfectly, except the Reels are never stiff when powered up. I've been using all of the same EPROMS for each Board,  as they're all tested working and consistent (I just swap each one to the next Board to test).

Upon initial power up, Reels are loose, but Display works. Go through the 61 to 61 - 1 procedure and get the maiden spin. I can insert a Coin and play a game, but the Reels never stiffen up. Weird, I know.

If I touch the Reels, they'll go into a Reel Tilt on whichever one I moved (41, 42 or 43). I can't clear the tilt by opening and closing the Door, assuming it's because the Reel is still not in last known position and won't re-spin after the Door gets closed.

I can play several paid games until it finally goes into a General Reel Tilt and can only be reset by using the Clear Chip.

I've checked all of the Edge Connectors for bent Pins, looked over components and see no obvious signs of damage or overheating. I haven't gotten as far as checking the Schematic yet, but I'd really like to figure this one out. 

Just wondering if anyone has ever seen anything similar to this before???

Chime in, if so.

Thanks,

Curtis ash100

[lookes]

There are two voltage sources going to the reel motor drivers. A lower voltage to hold the reels in position, and a higher voltage is applied while they are moving. You must be missing the hold voltage.

[Ash100]

That makes sense.

I'll have to get into the schematics to figure out where each one is coming from and see about possible repairs.

I've also got a few Boards that don't have any hold power for the Reels, which seemed like a failure to boot scenario. Others with no Display, which also seems to be a no boot problem.

I have over 40 S+ MPU Boards to test. The ones with the Battery Leakage can hopefully be used for parts if needed, and I've not even bothered to test them. Most of the Solder Pads were eaten away by the acid, so there's no reason to try to repair them.

I've also got quite a few that work and play perfectly, but have no sound. Beyond replacing the Sound EPROM at U49, I've got no idea where else to look. But one day when I've got more time, I'll definitely get into the schematic and see if I can remedy some of these issues. I hate to throw anything away. Lol.

Thanks for the reply.

Curtis ash100

[Stayouttadabunker]

Could it be faulty resistors at R1-R5?
R4 and R5 aren't needed unless you're sticking in a 4 or 5 reel game....pretty rare.
We normally only use R1, R2 and R3 for S+'s.
I've just never seen all 3 going out at once tho.
So the resistor pack may not be the problem.
I suspect some transistor NPN switcher has shorted...Q19 near the reel drivers?

Click on photo below to enlarge if needed...>>>

[jay]

If this was not his test machine - and working with other boards I would say this sounds like a ground issue with his reel harness.

I am wondering if he has cold solder someplace. The key here is that this is all 3 reels and not just one so I am thinking not a reel driver.