question: arcade machine (pad) problem

[Cheerios]

I'm not sure if the pad is missing something, but stepping on it makes it 'squeak'. As if you are stepping on old stairs. And, it doesn't have the firmness of some other arcade machines I've played on. (Feels like it's missing something between the sensors and actual pad imo.) Is there anything out there that can relieve this squeaking noise and make stepping on it feel more sturdy?

:( I know it's hard to describe. I've been looking around coin op spare parts and havn't found something that could make the arrows more sturdy. So I figure I ask if anyone has home brew ideas.

Thanks.

[DAVE101]

Unscrew the brackets and remove the panel to see what's going on.
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poop

[MonMotha]

Assuming this is a double machine here. Solo machines are different.

Between the panel itself and each of the four sensors (around the sides) is a so-called "L-bracket". Appropriately, this is a bracket that is shaped like a 'L'.



You can see the bracket screwed into the side of the cavity using three screws in this picture. A spacer is placed on the screw between the washer and the side of the cavity to provide a means for the bracket to easily slide up and down on the little slot in it.

These screws often come loose as people jump around on top, and then the bracket can fall off or become skewed. Skewed brackets cause squeaks and loss of sensitivity. Brackets that have fallen off entirely cause sensitivity issues and make the panel feel kinda "dead". Prolonged operation in this state could cause sensor damage as there's nothing preventing the panel from overcompressing the sensors (and people tend to step harder due to the lack of sensitivity).

If any of these have fallen off, re-install them of course. It's a bit of a pain since the plastic liner that is meant to keep dust out of the light area can get in the way, but it's possible. Use a #1 Philips screwdriver. Get it good and tight, but of course don't strip out the head or threads. If they keep falling off, a little lock-tite (lightest strength) should keep them firmly in place. Be sure you have all the hardware (screw, washer, spacer). If you're missing anything, try to find a suitable replacement. The screws are metric, so don't try to force a SAE threaded screw in as you'll just damage the tapping on the hole. I recommend stainless hardware. It costs a little more, but it won't rust and corrode.


Now, there may be other possible causes. I've noticed that some Pump It Up machines "creak" when weight is applied, but I've never noticed this on DDR machines. Seems to be related to the panel itself flexing slightly. The plastic "stops" in the corners may be unevenly worn or something as well, but it's not overly easy to get replacements for those.


Of course, before working on a game, make sure you have consent of the owner/operator. If this thing's in your basement, break out the screwdriver, but if it's at your local arcade, make sure you ask someone who works there first!