1986 Comet Williams Pinball Manual

The 1986 Comet Williams Pinball Machine is a classic arcade pinball featuring a space-themed design, multi-ball play, electronic scoring system, drop targets, ramps, and flipper controls. Manufactured by Williams Electronics, this machine includes standard pinball components: playfield, backglass, flippers, bumpers, slingshots, and electronic displays. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications.

1. Features Overview 2. Machine Setup 3. Game Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Scoring 6. Maintenance Procedures 7. Playfield Components 8. Electrical System 9. Cleaning & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Features Overview

Key components: Space-themed playfield, electronic scoring display, dual flipper controls, multi-ball capability, drop targets, ramps, and sound effects.

Feature	Description
Playfield	Space-themed artwork with celestial graphics
Scoring System	Electronic digital display with LED scoring
Flippers	Dual main flippers with power adjustment
Multi-ball	Three-ball multi-ball play feature
Drop Targets	Four bank drop targets for bonus scoring
Ramps	Two plastic ramps for ball acceleration
Bumpers	Three pop bumpers with scoring effects
Sound System	Electronic sound board with space-themed effects
Backglass	Illuminated comet artwork with scoring display
Power Supply	Standard 120V AC operation

Machine Setup

Unpack and position machine on level surface. Ensure proper electrical connection.

Location: Place on stable, level floor away from direct sunlight.
Power connection: Plug into grounded 120V AC outlet.
Level adjustment: Use adjustable legs to ensure playfield is level.
Coin mechanism: Set for free play or coin operation as desired.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use two people for movement. Ensure proper grounding.

Game Operation

Insert coin or set to free play mode to begin game.

Start game: Press START button or insert coin.
Ball launch: Pull and release plunger to launch ball.
Flipper control: Use left/right flipper buttons to keep ball in play.
Scoring: Hit targets, ramps, and bumpers for points.
Multi-ball: Activate by hitting specific targets three times.
Bonus: Complete drop target banks for extra balls and points.

CAUTION! Keep hands away from moving parts during play.

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer: Williams Electronics, Inc.
Year: 1986
Dimensions: 54" H × 28" W × 76" L
Weight: 250 pounds
Power: 120V AC, 60Hz, 3A
Playfield: Wood with mylar coating
Scoring: Electronic digital display
Balls: Standard 1-1/16" steel pinballs
Flippers: Dual main, one upper flipper
Lighting: Incandescent bulbs throughout

Controls and Scoring

Front controls: START button, COIN slot, PLUNGER. Player controls: Left/Right flipper buttons.

Scoring Features: Drop targets (500 points each), bumpers (100 points), ramps (1000 points), multi-ball activation (extra ball).

Adjustments: Flipper power, tilt sensitivity, ball count, bonus settings via dip switches. High score display and reset capability.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Ball inspection: Check for wear and replace if damaged.
Playfield cleaning: Use approved pinball cleaner and soft cloth.
Rubber rings: Replace every 6-12 months depending on use.
Bulb replacement: Replace burned out bulbs with correct voltage.
Lubrication: Light lubrication of moving parts as needed.

Tip: Unplug machine before performing any maintenance.

Playfield Components

Major playfield elements and their functions.

Drop Targets: Four targets that fall when hit, reset after completion.
Pop Bumpers: Three bumpers that propel ball when activated.
Ramps: Two plastic ramps for ball acceleration and scoring.
Slingshots: Two rubber slingshots on sides of playfield.
Rollover Lanes: Score lanes that register when ball passes through.
Spinners: Rotating scoring elements for bonus points.
Ball Launch: Spring-loaded plunger for initial ball launch.

WARNING! Do not force components; refer to manual for proper adjustment.

Electrical System

MPU (Main Processing Unit) controls game logic and scoring. Power supply board provides regulated voltages. Solenoid drivers control flippers and bumpers.

Cleaning & Care

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for cabinet. Use approved pinball cleaner for playfield.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or excessive moisture. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Regulatory Information

UL listed for electrical safety. Manufactured by Williams Electronics, Inc. Copyright © 1986 Williams Electronics, Inc. All rights reserved. For service and parts, contact authorized Williams service centers.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord/outlet	Check power cord connection; test outlet; check fuse.
Flippers not working	Solenoid/wiring	Check flipper buttons; inspect solenoid connections; test switches.
Scoring display blank	Power supply/display	Check display connectors; test power supply voltages.
Ball stuck	Obstruction/wear	Remove obstruction; check for worn playfield components.
Tilt mechanism too sensitive	Adjustment	Adjust tilt bob sensitivity according to manual specifications.

Reset: Turn power off and on to reset electronic system.

Service: Contact authorized Williams service technician for major repairs.