BYOAC OLD Wiki - User contributions [en]

Spinner Turn Count

2007-10-13T05:46:38Z

Majorrockhardy:

== Purpose ==

This is intended to be a page to keep track of the correct turns ratio of spinner/dial/paddle/trackball-controlled arcade games. Below is comma-separated text, hopefully this is a useful format.

''Q: How do I use this information?''

''A: To tweak the analog sensitivity in MAME to better emulate real hardware.''

An example from the first link below:
Tempest, 72 count

if the control you use has 1200 counts per turn, the sensitivity calculation is:
Sensitivity = 100 * 72 / 1200 = 6%

== Links (Recommended Reading) ==
[http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=61381.0 http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=61381.0]

[http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=23967.0 http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=23967.0]

[http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=42401.msg474159#msg474159 http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=42401.msg474159#msg474159]

== Data ==

'''Effective_Tooth_Count''' = teeth that pass through the optical sensor per revolution of the knob (multiply by any gear ratios to obtain)

'''Counts_Per_Revolution''' = could be 1x, 2x, or 4x of the Effective_Tooth_Count (depends on original hardware interpretation of optical sensor information)

'''Other_Notes''' = quantitative information relating to game play (like degrees of turn from one side of the screen to another - useful for potentiometer games like Warlords)

'''Game, Effective_Tooth_Count, Counts_Per_Revolution, Other_Notes'''

720 degrees, 72, 144, (blank)

Ivan Ironman Offroad, 154.286, (blank), Geared: 60 teeth on the steering wheel shaft, meshes with a 14 tooth gear on the encoder shaft, which has 36 teeth on its encoder wheel

Disks of Tron, 128, (blank), (blank)

Blasteroids, 72, (blank), (blank)

Tempest, 72, (blank), 1 full turn moves 5 spaces on first screen

Pole Position, 102 6/7, (blank), Geared: 60 tooth gear on wheel shaft, 14 tooth gear on 24 tooth encoder disk shaft => (60 / 14) * 24 = 102 6/7

Arkanoid, 486, (blank), Geared: The knob attaches to shaft #1, which has a 72 tooth gear on it. That gear turns a 16 tooth gear on shaft #2. Shaft #2 also has a 72 tooth gear on it, which then turns a 16 tooth gear on shaft #3. Shaft #3 also has the encoder wheel on it, which has 24 teeth. 120-130 deg = one traversal across the screen

RoadBlasters, 24, (blank), Limited Wheel/Yoke

Warlords, (n/a - pot), (n/a - pot), 120-130 deg one traversal end to end of castle

Super Breakout, (blank), (blank), 120-130 deg one traversal across the screen

Turbo, (blank), (blank), 2 1/2 turns to go across the screen

Sprint, (blank), (blank), 1/2 turn is 90 deg

Super Sprint, (blank), (blank), 360 deg turn of wheel moves about 170 deg

'''Trackball Games:'''
'''Game Name, Notes'''

Crystal Castles, 1st screen BB moves length of line above his head from center of trackball moved to one side

Centipede, 1 trackball move 1 end to other (stock tb)
2 1/2 mushroom lengths

Missle Command
1 full end to end visible trackball movement goes from left to the
right of the little bump after the missle base

Spinner Turn Count

2007-10-13T05:38:04Z

Majorrockhardy:

== Purpose ==

This is intended to be a page to keep track of the correct turns ratio of spinner/dial/paddle/trackball-controlled arcade games. Below is comma-separated text, hopefully this is a useful format.

''Q: How do I use this information?''

''A: To tweak the analog sensitivity in MAME to better emulate real hardware.''

An example from the first link below:
Tempest, 72 count

if the control you use has 1200 counts per turn, the sensitivity calculation is:
Sensitivity = 100 * 72 / 1200 = 6%

== Links (Recommended Reading) ==
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=61381.0
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=23967.0
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=42401.msg474159#msg474159

== Data ==

'''Effective_Tooth_Count''' = teeth that pass through the optical sensor per revolution of the knob (multiply by any gear ratios to obtain)

'''Counts_Per_Revolution''' = could be 1x, 2x, or 4x of the Effective_Tooth_Count (depends on original hardware interpretation of optical sensor information)

'''Other_Notes''' = quantitative information relating to game play (like degrees of turn from one side of the screen to another - useful for potentiometer games like Warlords)

'''Game, Effective_Tooth_Count, Counts_Per_Revolution, Other_Notes'''

720 degrees, 72, 144, (blank)

Ivan Ironman Offroad, 154.286, (blank), Geared: 60 teeth on the steering wheel shaft, meshes with a 14 tooth gear on the encoder shaft, which has 36 teeth on its encoder wheel

Disks of Tron, 128, (blank), (blank)

Blasteroids, 72, (blank), (blank)

Tempest, 72, (blank), 1 full turn moves 5 spaces on first screen

Pole Position, 102 6/7, (blank), Geared: 60 tooth gear on wheel shaft, 14 tooth gear on 24 tooth encoder disk shaft => (60 / 14) * 24 = 102 6/7

Arkanoid, 486, (blank), Geared: The knob attaches to shaft #1, which has a 72 tooth gear on it. That gear turns a 16 tooth gear on shaft #2. Shaft #2 also has a 72 tooth gear on it, which then turns a 16 tooth gear on shaft #3. Shaft #3 also has the encoder wheel on it, which has 24 teeth. 120-130 deg = one traversal across the screen

RoadBlasters, 24, (blank), Limited Wheel/Yoke

Warlords, (n/a - pot), (n/a - pot), 120-130 deg one traversal end to end of castle

Super Breakout, (blank), (blank), 120-130 deg one traversal across the screen

Turbo, (blank), (blank), 2 1/2 turns to go across the screen

Sprint, (blank), (blank), 1/2 turn is 90 deg

Super Sprint, (blank), (blank), 360 deg turn of wheel moves about 170 deg

'''Trackball Games:'''
'''Game Name, Notes'''

Crystal Castles, 1st screen BB moves length of line above his head from center of trackball moved to one side

Centipede, 1 trackball move 1 end to other (stock tb)
2 1/2 mushroom lengths

Missle Command
1 full end to end visible trackball movement goes from left to the
right of the little bump after the missle base

Spinners and Dials

2007-10-13T04:38:30Z

Majorrockhardy:

A '''Spinner''' is a knob that can be spun rapidly in either direction to move an on-screen paddle or character. Spinners provide precise analog control like a mouse, but act only along one axis. Spinners were used for many popular early arcade games such as Pong, Tempest, Arkanoid, and Tron.
{{Cleanup}}

=What is a Spinner?=

You might remember the spinner from games like Tempest and Arkanoid. The player turns a knob to move the on-screen character. But what's going on behind the scenes; what's that knob attached to?

Underneath the control panel, the shaft comes down from the knob above. Mounted on the shaft, is an optical encoder wheel- a flat disk with notches cut around the outside edge. These notches pass though a set of infra-red optics, that detect the notches as they spin by. There are two sets of optics, spaced such that they see the notches spin by just a little bit out of sync. The combined signal from both of these optics tells the game which direction the disk is turning, and how fast. This is also how a trackball works, as well as a ball-type PC mouse.

If you are buying or building a working spinner for your cabinet, you will need the Spinner (the mechanical part,) the optics(the part that watches the spinning,) and the optical encoder (the part that sends info to the computer.) If a manufacturer advertises "USB Connectivity" that generally means that it is an all in one solution, and no additional parts are required. Otherwise, you'll find that optics are generally included, but an encoder is not. In the rare occurence that your spinner does not have optics included, they can be built with parts from your local electronic store, or you can build them based off of a [[Optical_Encoders#Mouse_Hack|mouse hack.]] If the unit does not ship with an optical encoder, you can purchase one from an aftermarket seller. You can find out more about [[Optical_Encoders|optical encoders here.]]

Note: Paddles, while similar to spinners in that they rotate and have knobs, are usually based on potentiometers (like a volume knob on an old TV or radio), rather than the optics in a spinner. Spinners, as the name suggests, spin. There is no end to how many times the knob can fully rotate in any direction. They often move things in a game in a circular fashion, as in Tempest or TRON. Paddles are the precursor to the spinner. The paddles found on early arcade games (like pong) rotated a full 360 degrees but used a 360 potentiometer (or pot) rather than an optical encoder. Since a pot requires physical contact, they tend to spin less freely than a true spinner. MAME adds to confusion by classifying 270 degree steering wheels as paddles. This is false as most, if not all arcade games that actually used paddles used 360 degree paddles and 270 degree wheels used a regular linear potentiometer (like a radio knob, which can only turn so far). There is such a thing as a 270 degree paddle though, just to make things even more confusing. As a matter of fact, many pong clones used the 270 degree paddles as they were cheaper. Most of your home versions of pong also used the 270 degree paddles. Most emulators will let you play paddle games with a spinner, but spinner games are generally not playable with paddles, mostly due to the fact that paddles just don't spin that well.

=Spinner Varieties=

#Tempest- Fast spinning lightweight spinner, which is very popular with arcade enthusiassts. It has 72 teeth on the encoder wheel, with nylon upper and lower bearings on the shaft. This was the model for the Oscar Vortex aftermarket spinner.
#Arkanoid- The "geared" spinner. Rather than mounting the encoder wheel directly to the shaft, the Arkanoid spinner used two sets of gears between the knob and the encoder wheel, to make the spinner extremely sensitive. While the encoder wheel only has 24 notches, the gearing causes 486 notches to pass through the optics for every turn of the knob! Due to the lightweight and friction from the gearing, the Arkanoid spinner stops the instant you take your hand off the knob.
#360° Steering Wheels - Games like the original Pole Position and Sprint 2 used steering wheels that were essentially giant spinners. The Pole Position steering wheel, for instance, was geared similarly to an Arkanoid spinner. However, the gear ratio was only 5:1 to a 24 notch encoder wheel (96 notches per wheel revolution). This and the mechanical advantage of the large steering wheel rather than a small knob, let the wheel spin freely. Sprint 2 (and Sprint 1, and probably Sprints 4 and 8)used an ungeared 38 notch encoder cup, and spun freely.
#Discs of Tron ''Push/Pull''- This spinner used a giant 128-notch encoder wheel with a push / pull switch feature built into the spindle shaft. When the player pulled up or down on the spinner, a leafswitch was activated. This was used to control the high / low aim of the disc in later levels of the game. Zwackery also used a Push/Pull spinner, and Forgotten Worlds used a push only (no pull) spinner. Oscar Controls marketed a Push/Pull spinner with a slightly different design, and a smaller 72 notch encoder wheel, but it is no longer available for purchase. The Oscar V2 had a Push option, and a Pull kit was rumored to be in the works before Oscar Controls closed down.

=Spinner Brands=
{| align=right
| [[Image:SlikStikTornadoSpinner.jpg|150px|right|thumb|SlikStik's Tornado spinner]]
|-
| [[Image:TurboTwist2.jpg|right|200px|thumb|GGG's TurboTwist 2 spinner]]
|-
| [[Image:ApacheControlsBlackhawkPushPullSPinner.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Apache Controls' Blackhawk spinner]]
|-
| [[Image:Spintrack1.jpg|right|120px|thumb|Ultimarc's SpinTrak spinner]]
|}
==[http://oscarcontrols.com/ Oscar Controls]==
Oscar Controls was a popular manufacturer of spinners for the hobbyist market until recently. Several models were produced over the years, including the Model One, Pro, Vortex, Push/Pull, and V2. These spinners did not enclude an encoder and required connection to an [[Optical_Encoders#Opti-PAC|Opti-Pac]] or to a [[Optical_Encoders#Mouse_Hack|mouse hack]].
==[http://www.slikstik.com/spinfeat.htm SlikStik]==
The Tornado is billed as the "longest spinning" spinner on the market, the Tornado is currently the spinner that's been on the market the longest. With an extra-small footprint, and dual-bearing design, the Tornado is very well made. Several knob options are also available. The Tornado comes with it's own USB or PS/2 interface. Plans to sell the Tornado with a plain-jane optic card have also been announced.
==[http://GroovyGameGear.com GroovyGameGear]==
The successor to their original TurboTwist, the TurboTwist 2 is relatively new to the spinner scene. The most instantly noticeable feature of this spinner is its very small footprint; it is designed to fit a standard 1 1/8" pushbutton hole and occupies little more space inside the control panel. The TurboTwist 2 has a dual ball-bearing design with all components sealed inside its housing. The TurboTwist 2 has an extra-high resolution encoder wheel, and comes with it's own USB or PS/2 Opti-Wiz interface. The interface can be configured to put the spinner on the X, Y, or Z mouse axis, and will control other optic devices on the remaining two axes, such as a trackball, or additional spinners/steering wheels/optical rotary joysticks. Several optional extras are also available for the TurboTwist 2, such as a novel mini steering-wheel and a heavy 'energy storage cylinder'.
==[http://ArcadeGames4U.com ArcadeGames4U]==
The cyclone is also new to the market. It has a dual-bearing design, with a lower resolution encoder wheel. The Cyclone ships with an optic card, but no interface.
==[http://www.apachecontrols.com/ Apache Controls]==
This is very good looking new addition to the market. Ever since the original Atari Discs Of Tron push-pull NOS spinners disappeared from the market and Oscar Controls stopped producing their push-pull spinners, they have been highly sought after by collectors and arcade restorers. This is currently the only Discs of Tron style push/pull spinner being manufactured. For further details take a look at the [http://www.retroblast.com/reviews/apache-070106-01.html RetroBlast review] of this spinner.
==[http://www.ultimarc.com Ultimarc]==
Ultimarc recently announced their own contribution to the spinner market. The SpinTrak uses a sealed-component design (the encoder wheel and other components are protected inside the spinners housing) and is compatible with SlikStik's custom spinner knobs.

=Build Your Own Spinner=

For those of us who would prefer to build their own spinner or cannot afford a retail unit, with a few spare parts that most likely are already lying around, can easily build your own. Here are some links to help you along your way:

'''[http://arcadecontrols.com/files/Miscellaneous/spinner.pdf Nathan Strum's Cheep Spinner]'''

'''[http://www.doughansen.net/arcade/spinner.htm DHansen's Arcade Stupidity Spinner]'''

'''[http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=17522.0 BYO "Nasty-Spinner" Thread]'''

'''List of compatible hard drives:'''

WD Caviar 1200 210 MB Drive

WD Caviar 11200 1.2 GB Drive

* Please feel free to add to the list of compatible drives if you have successfully built your own spinner with a drive that is not listed.

'''[http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=69812.0 BYO "Arkanoid (I) spinner from VCR parts" Thread]'''

=FAQs=
==Which games originally used a spinner==
The list below is non-definitive, but can be used as a guide to find the most common games that can use a spinner.
===Conventional spinner games===
*Arkanoid arkanoid
*Arkanoid - Revenge of Doh arknoid2
*Blasteroids (version 4) blstroid
*Wolf Pack (prototype) wolfpack
*Tempest (rev 3) tempest
*Tron (set 1) tron
*Mad Planets mplanets
*720 Degrees (set 1) 720
*Aztarac aztarac
*Forgotten Worlds (US) forgottn
*Kozmik Kroozr kroozr
*Crater Raider crater
*Wheel Of Fortune wfortune
*Victory victory
*Omega Race omegrace
*Cameltry (US) cameltry
*Cosmic Chasm (set 1) cchasm
*Dark Planet darkplnt
*Vs. Hot Smash hotsmash
*Boxing Bugs boxingb
*Star Trek startrek
===Push/pull spinner games===
*Discs of Tron (Upright) dotron
*Zwackery zwackery
*Forgotten Worlds forgottn *(only push)

===Horizontal roller===
*Major Havoc (rev 3) mhavoc
*Moonwar moonwar
*Kick (upright) kick
=== Vertical roller ===
*Drag Race dragrace
=== 360° Steering Wheel===
*Super Sprint ssprint
*APB - All Points Bulletin (set 1) apb
*Pole Position polepos
*Pole Position II polepos2
*Road Blasters (set 1) roadblst
*American Speedway (set 1) amspdwy
*Bad Lands badlands
*Demolition Derby demoderb
*Danny Sullivan's Indy Heat indyheat
*Speed Freak speedfrk
*Ironman Stewart's Super Off-Road offroad
*Ironman Stewart's Super Off-Road Track Pack offroadt
*Turbo turbo
*Konami GT konamigt
*Buggy Challenge buggychl
*Championship Sprint csprint
*Fire Truck firetrk
*Fire Truck firetrk
*Grand Champion grchamp
*Hot Rod (turbo 3 player) hotrod
*Monte Carlo montecar
*Stocker stocker
*Super Speed Race sspeedr
*Final Lap 2 finalap2
*Subs subs
*Mille Miglia 2: Great 1000 Miles Rally (95/05/24) gtmr2
*Over Drive overdriv
*Redline Racer (2 players) redlin2p
*Sprint 1 sprint1
===Horizontal paddle games===
*Boot Hill boothill
*Clowns (rev. 2) clowns
*Super Breakout sbrkout
*Avalanche avalnche
*Beam Invader beaminv
*Gee Bee geebee
*Warlords warlords
*Field Goal fgoal
*Blue Shark blueshrk
*Circus circus
*Sea Wolf seawolf
*Sea Wolf II seawolf2
===Vertical paddle games===
*Destroyer destroyr
*Lunar Lander (rev 2) llander

==Two Spinners on a control panel; is it worth it?==
The answer is an unequivocal ''maybe''. There are several factors to keep in mind when trying to determine whether you should buy and install 2 spinners on your control panel.
#Budget- Spinners are somewhat expensive. Buying 2 aftermarket spinners with optics will set you back about $80-$160.
#Software- Can your software support 2 mice at the same time. Make sure you have a version of mame that can support 2 spinners if they're both individual USB units. If you have them both plugged into an [[Optical_Encoders#Opti-PAC|Optipac]] this won't be a problem.
#Space- Depending on the model, spinners can take up a lot of room under the surface of a control panel. The Oscar Controls Push/Pull spinner was approximately 5.5x6" for instance. Also, the more spinners you have, the less room you may have for other features and joysticks.
#Games- Most importantly, do you like any games that use more than 1 spinner? Below is a (non-definitive) list of multi-spinner games
##Paddle Games
###Arkanoid Returns
###Off the Wall (Atari)
###Off the Wall (Bally Sente)
###Warlords (uses 4!)
###Pop'n Bounce
###Plump Pop
###VS Blok Breaker
##Flying
###Blasteroids
###Two Tigers
##Driving
###Super Off Road
### Super Sprint (uses 3!)
###Championship Super Sprint
###Bad Lands
###Ironman Ivan Stewart's Super Off-Road (uses 3!)
###Ironman Stewart's Super Off-Road Track Pack (uses 3!)
###Danny Sullivan's Indy Heat
## Other
###Atari 2 player games
###Puzzloop

==If I can have only a spinner or a trackball... which should I choose==
'''insert pro/con arguments here'''
relevant links in msg board. delete links once the info has been added.
* http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=25477.0
* http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=37876.0
* http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=36036.0

==See Also==
* [[Controls]]
* [[Spinner_Turn_Count]]

[[Category:Controls]]
[[Category:Index]]

Yoke Rebuild

2007-10-07T04:52:15Z

Majorrockhardy:

This page is a documentation of a complete teardown, refurbish (paint & lube), and rebuild of an Atari Star Wars type yoke control.

A superb scan of a Star Wars Operator's Manual (in .pdf form) is available here:
http://www.gamearchive.com/Video_Games/Manufacturers/Atari/onlinemanuals/starwars_op_manual.pdf
(see pages 42 & 43 of the pdf for the yoke exploded view)
(I will use most of Atari's parts nomenclature.)

Replacement parts now available at RAM Controls:
[http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html]

Also, a source for METAL replacement gears is W.M. BERG: [http://www.wmberg.com/ http://www.wmberg.com/]

NOTE: I have not tested these gears for compatibility and some (specifically the 60 tooth gears) would at least require drilling out the bore to accommodate the diameter of the steering/handle shafts, but the following are my best estimates as to replacement gear part numbers:

14 tooth Y-axis pot gear: P24A66-14 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24PH28-14 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

28 tooth X-axis pot gear: P24PH28-28 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

60 tooth X/Y-axis shaft gear: P24B34X-60 (BRASS or BRONZE - it's unclear) or P24A68-60, P24A67-60, P24A66-60 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24S35-60, P24S34X-60 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

... but do your homework and make sure these will work before ordering.

== The Guide ==

NOTE: Wires, potentiometers (pots), and microswitches may differ from original. This guide also assumes you have already removed the outer cover.

'''SAVE EVERYTHING YOU REMOVE FROM THE YOKE (EVEN IF REPLACING) UNTIL IT IS REBUILT'''

Step 1: Loosen X-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis pot 28-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild1.jpg]]

Step 2: Remove X-axis pot retainer nut and star washer. Remove Pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild2.jpg]]

Step 3: Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild3.jpg]]

Step 4: Remove C-clip using flathead screwdriver.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild4.jpg]]

Step 5: Remove shaft washer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild5.jpg]]

Step 6: Loosen anchor pin using 5/16" wrench or socket. Hold anchor nut using another 5/16" wrench

[[Image:yoke_rebuild6.jpg]]

Step 7: Remove anchor pin and nut. Rotate steering assembly frame while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin and nut.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild7.jpg]]

Step 8: Slide torsion springs and steering assembly frame off the steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild8.jpg]]

Step 9: Remove bump stops (if they exist) from metal pins on steering assembly frame and handle assembly frame (4 total).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild9.jpg]]

Step 10: Remove white plastic bushing from steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild10.jpg]]

Step 11: Remove shoulder bolt from handle assembly frame steering shaft hub using allen wrench. 3 total (one on underside).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild11.jpg]]

Step 12: Remove steering shaft from handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild12.jpg]]

Step 13: Loosen Y-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Loosen set screw from Y-axis pot 14-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild13.jpg]]

Step 14: Remove spur gear from pot. A 3/8" wrench is handy as a gear puller.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild14.jpg]]

Step 15: Remove bolt from Y-axis shaft limiter pin using allen wrench. Rotate handles while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild15.jpg]]

Step 16: Remove outer and inner shoulder bolt from handle hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild16.jpg]]

Step 17: Wonder why the handle won't come off. Wonder what that other thing is between the outer and inner shoulder bolt holes. Realize it is a pressed-in spring pin. Ponder how to get it out.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild17.jpg]]

Step 18: Cut wires free from microswitches. Pull wires back through handle shaft. Remove microswitch bolts using screwdriver and remove microswitches. Use screwdriver inside handle shaft to push spring pin outwards.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild18.jpg]]

Step 19: Grip spring pin with vise grips and pull. Repeat until spring pin actually comes out. At some point, you may be able to rotate it a bit while pulling.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild19.jpg]]

Step 20: Marvel at the fact you have triumphed over an inanimate 4 cent piece of steel. Repeat steps 16-20 for other handle (if you want/need to - the other handle ''could'' stay on the handle shaft). TIP: I was finally able to get the second spring pin out by gripping it in the edge of a vise with a good sharp edge on the jaw and put sandpaper in between the vise jaw and the pin for extra grip. Remove shoulder bolt from Y-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove C-clips using hook pick or other tool, but be extremely cautious if prying with a screwdriver as it would be too easy to damage the plastic (but expensive to replace) gear. Slide handle shaft out of handle assembly frame and torsion springs. Remove torsion springs. Pick out gear that has been freed.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild20.jpg]]

Step 21: Gently tap handle shaft bearing towards interior of handle assembly frame using hammer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild21.jpg]]

Step 22: The ball end on my screwdriver worked well to free the bearing from the handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild22.jpg]]

Step 23: Strip paint off the handles, handle assembly frame, and steering assembly frame. Bead blasting worked great for me. One of my handles had a nick out of it - I'm guessing this was a casting flaw. I patched it with JB Weld and sanded it down.
(WARNING: NAKED YOKE!)
[[Image:stripped_yoke_parts.jpg]]

Yoke Rebuild

2007-10-07T04:50:31Z

Majorrockhardy:

This page is a documentation of a complete teardown, refurbish (paint & lube), and rebuild of an Atari Star Wars type yoke control.

A superb scan of a Star Wars Operator's Manual (in .pdf form) is available here:
http://www.gamearchive.com/Video_Games/Manufacturers/Atari/onlinemanuals/starwars_op_manual.pdf
(see pages 42 & 43 of the pdf for the yoke exploded view)

Replacement parts now available at RAM Controls:
[http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html]
(I will use most of their parts nomenclature.)

Also, a source for METAL replacement gears is W.M. BERG: [http://www.wmberg.com/ http://www.wmberg.com/]

NOTE: I have not tested these gears for compatibility and some (specifically the 60 tooth gears) would at least require drilling out the bore to accommodate the diameter of the steering/handle shafts, but the following are my best estimates as to replacement gear part numbers:

14 tooth Y-axis pot gear: P24A66-14 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24PH28-14 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

28 tooth X-axis pot gear: P24PH28-28 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

60 tooth X/Y-axis shaft gear: P24B34X-60 (BRASS or BRONZE - it's unclear) or P24A68-60, P24A67-60, P24A66-60 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24S35-60, P24S34X-60 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

... but do your homework and make sure these will work before ordering.

== The Guide ==

NOTE: Wires, potentiometers (pots), and microswitches may differ from original. This guide also assumes you have already removed the outer cover.

'''SAVE EVERYTHING YOU REMOVE FROM THE YOKE (EVEN IF REPLACING) UNTIL IT IS REBUILT'''

Step 1: Loosen X-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis pot 28-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild1.jpg]]

Step 2: Remove X-axis pot retainer nut and star washer. Remove Pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild2.jpg]]

Step 3: Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild3.jpg]]

Step 4: Remove C-clip using flathead screwdriver.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild4.jpg]]

Step 5: Remove shaft washer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild5.jpg]]

Step 6: Loosen anchor pin using 5/16" wrench or socket. Hold anchor nut using another 5/16" wrench

[[Image:yoke_rebuild6.jpg]]

Step 7: Remove anchor pin and nut. Rotate steering assembly frame while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin and nut.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild7.jpg]]

Step 8: Slide torsion springs and steering assembly frame off the steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild8.jpg]]

Step 9: Remove bump stops (if they exist) from metal pins on steering assembly frame and handle assembly frame (4 total).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild9.jpg]]

Step 10: Remove white plastic bushing from steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild10.jpg]]

Step 11: Remove shoulder bolt from handle assembly frame steering shaft hub using allen wrench. 3 total (one on underside).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild11.jpg]]

Step 12: Remove steering shaft from handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild12.jpg]]

Step 13: Loosen Y-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Loosen set screw from Y-axis pot 14-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild13.jpg]]

Step 14: Remove spur gear from pot. A 3/8" wrench is handy as a gear puller.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild14.jpg]]

Step 15: Remove bolt from Y-axis shaft limiter pin using allen wrench. Rotate handles while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild15.jpg]]

Step 16: Remove outer and inner shoulder bolt from handle hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild16.jpg]]

Step 17: Wonder why the handle won't come off. Wonder what that other thing is between the outer and inner shoulder bolt holes. Realize it is a pressed-in spring pin. Ponder how to get it out.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild17.jpg]]

Step 18: Cut wires free from microswitches. Pull wires back through handle shaft. Remove microswitch bolts using screwdriver and remove microswitches. Use screwdriver inside handle shaft to push spring pin outwards.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild18.jpg]]

Step 19: Grip spring pin with vise grips and pull. Repeat until spring pin actually comes out. At some point, you may be able to rotate it a bit while pulling.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild19.jpg]]

Step 20: Marvel at the fact you have triumphed over an inanimate 4 cent piece of steel. Repeat steps 16-20 for other handle (if you want/need to - the other handle ''could'' stay on the handle shaft). TIP: I was finally able to get the second spring pin out by gripping it in the edge of a vise with a good sharp edge on the jaw and put sandpaper in between the vise jaw and the pin for extra grip. Remove shoulder bolt from Y-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove C-clips using hook pick or other tool, but be extremely cautious if prying with a screwdriver as it would be too easy to damage the plastic (but expensive to replace) gear. Slide handle shaft out of handle assembly frame and torsion springs. Remove torsion springs. Pick out gear that has been freed.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild20.jpg]]

Step 21: Gently tap handle shaft bearing towards interior of handle assembly frame using hammer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild21.jpg]]

Step 22: The ball end on my screwdriver worked well to free the bearing from the handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild22.jpg]]

Step 23: Strip paint off the handles, handle assembly frame, and steering assembly frame. Bead blasting worked great for me. One of my handles had a nick out of it - I'm guessing this was a casting flaw. I patched it with JB Weld and sanded it down.
(WARNING: NAKED YOKE!)
[[Image:stripped_yoke_parts.jpg]]

Yoke Rebuild

2007-10-06T04:37:33Z

Majorrockhardy:

This page is a documentation of a complete teardown, refurbish (paint & lube), and rebuild of an Atari Star Wars type yoke control.

Replacement parts now available at RAM Controls:
[http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html]
(I will use most of their parts nomenclature.)

Also, a source for METAL replacement gears is W.M. BERG: [http://www.wmberg.com/ http://www.wmberg.com/]

NOTE: I have not tested these gears for compatibility and some (specifically the 60 tooth gears) would at least require drilling out the bore to accommodate the diameter of the steering/handle shafts, but the following are my best estimates as to replacement gear part numbers:

14 tooth Y-axis pot gear: P24A66-14 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24PH28-14 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

28 tooth X-axis pot gear: P24PH28-28 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

60 tooth X/Y-axis shaft gear: P24B34X-60 (BRASS or BRONZE - it's unclear) or P24A68-60, P24A67-60, P24A66-60 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24S35-60, P24S34X-60 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

... but do your homework and make sure these will work before ordering.

== The Guide ==

NOTE: Wires, potentiometers (pots), and microswitches may differ from original. This guide also assumes you have already removed the outer cover.

'''SAVE EVERYTHING YOU REMOVE FROM THE YOKE (EVEN IF REPLACING) UNTIL IT IS REBUILT'''

Step 1: Loosen X-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis pot 28-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild1.jpg]]

Step 2: Remove X-axis pot retainer nut and star washer. Remove Pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild2.jpg]]

Step 3: Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild3.jpg]]

Step 4: Remove C-clip using flathead screwdriver.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild4.jpg]]

Step 5: Remove shaft washer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild5.jpg]]

Step 6: Loosen anchor pin using 5/16" wrench or socket. Hold anchor nut using another 5/16" wrench

[[Image:yoke_rebuild6.jpg]]

Step 7: Remove anchor pin and nut. Rotate steering assembly frame while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin and nut.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild7.jpg]]

Step 8: Slide torsion springs and steering assembly frame off the steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild8.jpg]]

Step 9: Remove bump stops (if they exist) from metal pins on steering assembly frame and handle assembly frame (4 total).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild9.jpg]]

Step 10: Remove white plastic bushing from steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild10.jpg]]

Step 11: Remove shoulder bolt from handle assembly frame steering shaft hub using allen wrench. 3 total (one on underside).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild11.jpg]]

Step 12: Remove steering shaft from handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild12.jpg]]

Step 13: Loosen Y-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Loosen set screw from Y-axis pot 14-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild13.jpg]]

Step 14: Remove spur gear from pot. A 3/8" wrench is handy as a gear puller.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild14.jpg]]

Step 15: Remove bolt from Y-axis shaft limiter pin using allen wrench. Rotate handles while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild15.jpg]]

Step 16: Remove outer and inner shoulder bolt from handle hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild16.jpg]]

Step 17: Wonder why the handle won't come off. Wonder what that other thing is between the outer and inner shoulder bolt holes. Realize it is a pressed-in spring pin. Ponder how to get it out.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild17.jpg]]

Step 18: Cut wires free from microswitches. Pull wires back through handle shaft. Remove microswitch bolts using screwdriver and remove microswitches. Use screwdriver inside handle shaft to push spring pin outwards.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild18.jpg]]

Step 19: Grip spring pin with vise grips and pull. Repeat until spring pin actually comes out. At some point, you may be able to rotate it a bit while pulling.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild19.jpg]]

Step 20: Marvel at the fact you have triumphed over an inanimate 4 cent piece of steel. Repeat steps 16-20 for other handle (if you want/need to - the other handle ''could'' stay on the handle shaft). TIP: I was finally able to get the second spring pin out by gripping it in the edge of a vise with a good sharp edge on the jaw and put sandpaper in between the vise jaw and the pin for extra grip. Remove shoulder bolt from Y-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove C-clips using hook pick or other tool, but be extremely cautious if prying with a screwdriver as it would be too easy to damage the plastic (but expensive to replace) gear. Slide handle shaft out of handle assembly frame and torsion springs. Remove torsion springs. Pick out gear that has been freed.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild20.jpg]]

Step 21: Gently tap handle shaft bearing towards interior of handle assembly frame using hammer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild21.jpg]]

Step 22: The ball end on my screwdriver worked well to free the bearing from the handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild22.jpg]]

Step 23: Strip paint off the handles, handle assembly frame, and steering assembly frame. Bead blasting worked great for me. One of my handles had a nick out of it - I'm guessing this was a casting flaw. I patched it with JB Weld and sanded it down.
(WARNING: NAKED YOKE!)
[[Image:stripped_yoke_parts.jpg]]

File:Stripped yoke parts.jpg

2007-10-06T04:34:01Z

Majorrockhardy:

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Stripped yoke parts.jpg

2007-10-06T04:33:04Z

Majorrockhardy:

Yoke Rebuild

2007-10-06T04:32:19Z

Majorrockhardy:

Yoke Rebuild

2007-10-06T04:29:52Z

Majorrockhardy: /* The Guide */

This page is a documentation of a complete teardown, refurbish (paint & lube), and rebuild of an Atari Star Wars type yoke control.

Replacement parts now available at RAM Controls:
[http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html]
(I will use most of their parts nomenclature.)

Also, a source for METAL replacement gears is W.M. BERG: [http://www.wmberg.com/ http://www.wmberg.com/]

NOTE: I have not tested these gears for compatibility and some (specifically the 60 tooth gears) would at least require drilling out the bore to accommodate the diameter of the steering/handle shafts, but the following are my best estimates as to replacement gear part numbers:

14 tooth Y-axis pot gear: P24A66-14 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24PH28-14 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

28 tooth X-axis pot gear: P24PH28-28 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

60 tooth X/Y-axis shaft gear: P24B34X-60 (BRASS or BRONZE - it's unclear) or P24A68-60, P24A67-60, P24A66-60 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24S35-60, P24S34X-60 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

... but do your homework and make sure these will work before ordering.

== The Guide ==

NOTE: Wires, potentiometers (pots), and microswitches may differ from original.

'''SAVE EVERYTHING YOU REMOVE FROM THE YOKE (EVEN IF REPLACING) UNTIL IT IS REBUILT'''

Step 1: Loosen X-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis pot 28-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild1.jpg]]

Step 2: Remove X-axis pot retainer nut and star washer. Remove Pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild2.jpg]]

Step 3: Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild3.jpg]]

Step 4: Remove C-clip using flathead screwdriver.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild4.jpg]]

Step 5: Remove shaft washer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild5.jpg]]

Step 6: Loosen anchor pin using 5/16" wrench or socket. Hold anchor nut using another 5/16" wrench

[[Image:yoke_rebuild6.jpg]]

Step 7: Remove anchor pin and nut. Rotate steering assembly frame while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin and nut.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild7.jpg]]

Step 8: Slide torsion springs and steering assembly frame off the steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild8.jpg]]

Step 9: Remove bump stops (if they exist) from metal pins on steering assembly frame and handle assembly frame (4 total).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild9.jpg]]

Step 10: Remove white plastic bushing from steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild10.jpg]]

Step 11: Remove shoulder bolt from handle assembly frame steering shaft hub using allen wrench. 3 total (one on underside).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild11.jpg]]

Step 12: Remove steering shaft from handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild12.jpg]]

Step 13: Loosen Y-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Loosen set screw from Y-axis pot 14-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild13.jpg]]

Step 14: Remove spur gear from pot. A 3/8" wrench is handy as a gear puller.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild14.jpg]]

Step 15: Remove bolt from Y-axis shaft limiter pin using allen wrench. Rotate handles while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild15.jpg]]

Step 16: Remove outer and inner shoulder bolt from handle hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild16.jpg]]

Step 17: Wonder why the handle won't come off. Wonder what that other thing is between the outer and inner shoulder bolt holes. Realize it is a pressed-in spring pin. Ponder how to get it out.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild17.jpg]]

Step 18: Cut wires free from microswitches. Pull wires back through handle shaft. Remove microswitch bolts using screwdriver and remove microswitches. Use screwdriver inside handle shaft to push spring pin outwards.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild18.jpg]]

Step 19: Grip spring pin with vise grips and pull. Repeat until spring pin actually comes out. At some point, you may be able to rotate it a bit while pulling.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild19.jpg]]

Step 20: Marvel at the fact you have triumphed over an inanimate 4 cent piece of steel. Repeat steps 16-20 for other handle (if you want/need to - the other handle ''could'' stay on the handle shaft). TIP: I was finally able to get the second spring pin out by gripping it in the edge of a vise with a good sharp edge on the jaw and put sandpaper in between the vise jaw and the pin for extra grip. Remove shoulder bolt from Y-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove C-clips using hook pick or other tool, but be extremely cautious if prying with a screwdriver as it would be too easy to damage the plastic (but expensive to replace) gear. Slide handle shaft out of handle assembly frame and torsion springs. Remove torsion springs. Pick out gear that has been freed.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild20.jpg]]

Step 21: Gently tap handle shaft bearing towards interior of handle assembly frame using hammer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild21.jpg]]

Step 22: The ball end on my screwdriver worked well to free the bearing from the handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild22.jpg]]

Step 23: Strip paint off the handles,

Yoke Rebuild

2007-09-24T04:28:56Z

Majorrockhardy:

This page is a documentation of a complete teardown, refurbish (paint & lube), and rebuild of an Atari Star Wars type yoke control.

Replacement parts now available at RAM Controls:
[http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html]
(I will use most of their parts nomenclature.)

Also, a source for METAL replacement gears is W.M. BERG: [http://www.wmberg.com/ http://www.wmberg.com/]

NOTE: I have not tested these gears for compatibility and some (specifically the 60 tooth gears) would at least require drilling out the bore to accommodate the diameter of the steering/handle shafts, but the following are my best estimates as to replacement gear part numbers:

14 tooth Y-axis pot gear: P24A66-14 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24PH28-14 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

28 tooth X-axis pot gear: P24PH28-28 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

60 tooth X/Y-axis shaft gear: P24B34X-60 (BRASS or BRONZE - it's unclear) or P24A68-60, P24A67-60, P24A66-60 (in ANODIZED ALUMINUM) or P24S35-60, P24S34X-60 (in STAINLESS STEEL)

... but do your homework and make sure these will work before ordering.

== The Guide ==

NOTE: Wires, potentiometers (pots), and microswitches may differ from original.

'''SAVE EVERYTHING YOU REMOVE FROM THE YOKE (EVEN IF REPLACING) UNTIL IT IS REBUILT'''

Step 1: Loosen X-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis pot 28-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild1.jpg]]

Step 2: Remove X-axis pot retainer nut and star washer. Remove Pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild2.jpg]]

Step 3: Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild3.jpg]]

Step 4: Remove C-clip using flathead screwdriver.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild4.jpg]]

Step 5: Remove shaft washer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild5.jpg]]

Step 6: Loosen anchor pin using 5/16" wrench or socket. Hold anchor nut using another 5/16" wrench

[[Image:yoke_rebuild6.jpg]]

Step 7: Remove anchor pin and nut. Rotate steering assembly frame while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin and nut.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild7.jpg]]

Step 8: Slide torsion springs and steering assembly frame off the steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild8.jpg]]

Step 9: Remove bump stops (if they exist) from metal pins on steering assembly frame and handle assembly frame (4 total).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild9.jpg]]

Step 10: Remove white plastic bushing from steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild10.jpg]]

Step 11: Remove shoulder bolt from handle assembly frame steering shaft hub using allen wrench. 3 total (one on underside).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild11.jpg]]

Step 12: Remove steering shaft from handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild12.jpg]]

Step 13: Loosen Y-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Loosen set screw from Y-axis pot 14-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild13.jpg]]

Step 14: Remove spur gear from pot. A 3/8" wrench is handy as a gear puller.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild14.jpg]]

Step 15: Remove bolt from Y-axis shaft limiter pin using allen wrench. Rotate handles while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild15.jpg]]

Step 16: Remove outer and inner shoulder bolt from handle hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild16.jpg]]

Step 17: Wonder why the handle won't come off. Wonder what that other thing is between the outer and inner shoulder bolt holes. Realize it is a pressed-in spring pin. Ponder how to get it out.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild17.jpg]]

Step 18: Cut wires free from microswitches. Pull wires back through handle shaft. Remove microswitch bolts using screwdriver and remove microswitches. Use screwdriver inside handle shaft to push spring pin outwards.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild18.jpg]]

Step 19: Grip spring pin with vise grips and pull. Repeat until spring pin actually comes out. At some point, you may be able to rotate it a bit while pulling.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild19.jpg]]

Step 20: Marvel at the fact you have triumphed over an inanimate 4 cent piece of steel. Repeat steps 16-20 for other handle (if you want/need to - the other handle ''could'' stay on the handle shaft. Remove shoulder bolt from Y-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove C-clips using hook pick or other tool, but be extremely cautious if prying with a screwdriver as it would be too easy to damage the plastic (but expensive to replace) gear. Slide handle shaft out of handle assembly frame and torsion springs. Remove torsion springs. Pick out gear that has been freed.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild20.jpg]]

Step 21: Gently tap handle shaft bearing towards interior of handle assembly frame using hammer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild21.jpg]]

Step 22: The ball end on my screwdriver worked well to free the bearing from the handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild22.jpg]]

(MORE TO COME, IT'S LATE)

Yoke Rebuild

2007-09-23T07:13:44Z

Majorrockhardy:

This page is a documentation of a complete teardown, refurbish (paint & lube), and rebuild of an Atari Star Wars type yoke control.

Replacement parts now available at RAM Controls:
[http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html http://www.ram-controls.com/order-sw.html]
(I will use most of their parts nomenclature.)

NOTE: Wires, potentiometers (pots), and microswitches may differ from original.

'''SAVE EVERYTHING YOU REMOVE FROM THE YOKE (EVEN IF REPLACING) UNTIL IT IS REBUILT'''

Step 1: Loosen X-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis pot 28-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild1.jpg]]

Step 2: Remove X-axis pot retainer nut and star washer. Remove Pot.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild2.jpg]]

Step 3: Remove shoulder bolt from X-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove spur gear from shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild3.jpg]]

Step 4: Remove C-clip using flathead screwdriver.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild4.jpg]]

Step 5: Remove shaft washer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild5.jpg]]

Step 6: Loosen anchor pin using 5/16" wrench or socket. Hold anchor nut using another 5/16" wrench

[[Image:yoke_rebuild6.jpg]]

Step 7: Remove anchor pin and nut. Rotate steering assembly frame while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin and nut.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild7.jpg]]

Step 8: Slide torsion springs and steering assembly frame off the steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild8.jpg]]

Step 9: Remove bump stops (if they exist) from metal pins on steering assembly frame and handle assembly frame (4 total).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild9.jpg]]

Step 10: Remove white plastic bushing from steering shaft.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild10.jpg]]

Step 11: Remove shoulder bolt from handle assembly frame steering shaft hub using allen wrench. 3 total (one on underside).

[[Image:yoke_rebuild11.jpg]]

Step 12: Remove steering shaft from handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild12.jpg]]

Step 13: Loosen Y-axis pot retainer nut with 1/2" wrench. Loosen set screw from Y-axis pot 14-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild13.jpg]]

Step 14: Remove spur gear from pot. A 3/8" wrench is handy as a gear puller.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild14.jpg]]

Step 15: Remove bolt from Y-axis shaft limiter pin using allen wrench. Rotate handles while doing so to relieve spring tension on pin.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild15.jpg]]

Step 16: Remove outer and inner shoulder bolt from handle hub using allen wrench.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild16.jpg]]

Step 17: Wonder why the handle won't come off. Wonder what that other thing is between the outer and inner shoulder bolt holes. Realize it is a pressed-in spring pin. Ponder how to get it out.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild17.jpg]]

Step 18: Cut wires free from microswitches. Pull wires back through handle shaft. Remove microswitch bolts using screwdriver and remove microswitches. Use screwdriver inside handle shaft to push spring pin outwards.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild18.jpg]]

Step 19: Grip spring pin with vise grips and pull. Repeat until spring pin actually comes out. At some point, you may be able to rotate it a bit while pulling.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild19.jpg]]

Step 20: Marvel at the fact you have triumphed over an inanimate 4 cent piece of steel. Repeat steps 16-20 for other handle (if you want/need to - the other handle ''could'' stay on the handle shaft. Remove shoulder bolt from Y-axis shaft 60-tooth spur gear hub using allen wrench. Remove C-clips using hook pick or other tool, but be extremely cautious if prying with a screwdriver as it would be too easy to damage the plastic (but expensive to replace) gear. Slide handle shaft out of handle assembly frame and torsion springs. Remove torsion springs. Pick out gear that has been freed.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild20.jpg]]

Step 21: Gently tap handle shaft bearing towards interior of handle assembly frame using hammer.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild21.jpg]]

Step 22: The ball end on my screwdriver worked well to free the bearing from the handle assembly frame.

[[Image:yoke_rebuild22.jpg]]

(MORE TO COME, IT'S LATE)

File:Yoke rebuild22.jpg

2007-09-23T05:43:37Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild21.jpg

2007-09-23T05:43:29Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild20.jpg

2007-09-23T05:43:17Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild19.jpg

2007-09-23T05:42:59Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild18.jpg

2007-09-23T05:42:39Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild17.jpg

2007-09-23T05:42:26Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild16.jpg

2007-09-23T05:42:08Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild15.jpg

2007-09-23T05:41:54Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild14.jpg

2007-09-23T05:41:42Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild13.jpg

2007-09-23T05:41:22Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild12.jpg

2007-09-23T05:41:11Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild11.jpg

2007-09-23T05:40:59Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild10.jpg

2007-09-23T05:40:46Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild9.jpg

2007-09-23T05:40:33Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild8.jpg

2007-09-23T05:39:49Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild7.jpg

2007-09-23T05:39:35Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild6.jpg

2007-09-23T05:39:18Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild5.jpg

2007-09-23T05:39:03Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild4.jpg

2007-09-23T05:38:51Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild3.jpg

2007-09-23T05:37:47Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild2.jpg

2007-09-23T05:37:35Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

File:Yoke rebuild1.jpg

2007-09-23T05:37:10Z

Majorrockhardy: step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

step-by-step disassembly, strip, primer, paint, re-assemble of Star Wars Yoke

Yoke Rebuild

2007-09-23T05:35:06Z

Majorrockhardy:

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test image [[Image:yoke_rebuild1.jpg]]

Restoration

2007-09-23T04:56:22Z

Majorrockhardy:

__NOTOC__

If you have an old arcade cabinet that you might want to restore (perhaps after reading the [[notes on converting a cabinet]]), you might be wondering how to do this. While restoration of cabinets might seem daunting, it can be very rewarding to own a ''real'' arcade cabinet.

==General Resources==
Luckily you are not on your own, this wiki can still help on topics like hooking up controls or [[JAMMA]] boards. There is even more help available via the [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com BYOAC forums] or other websites on this topic. See this list below for a collection of arcade restoration links:

*[http://www.arcaderestoration.com/index.asp?OPT=3&CBT=5 Guide To Restorations] Introductory Article On Restoration (tips, tools, etc.)
*[http://homearcade.org/BBBB/buildit.html I Want To Build A Game] Bob Roberts' Article On Cabinet Wiring
*[http://www.marvin3m.com/restore/index1.htm This Old Pinball - Restoring Arcade and Pinball Games]
*[http://www.rgvac.com/restoration.asp prOk's Restoration Page]
*[http://homearcade.org/BBBB/helppage.html Big Bear's Bulletin Board (Articles By Bob Roberts)]
*[http://www.ionpool.net IONPool.net] Loads of technical info
*[http://arcarc.xmission.com ARCade ARChive] Huge archive of arcade-related goodies
*[http://www.vectorlist.org VectorList Archives]
*[http://groups.google.com/group/rec.games.video.arcade.collecting rec.games.video.arcade.collecting (RGVAC)]
*[http://www.randyfromm.com Randy Fromm's Site]
*[http://www.arcadecollecting.com/ ArcadeCollecting.com]
*[http://www.arcaderestoration.com Arcade Restoration Workshop]
*[http://girasoli.org/arcade/ Tony's Café]
*[http://www.brasington.org/arcade/tech/repair.shtml PCB Repair Tips]
*[http://gls1electronics.com/ GLS1 Electronics - Board Repair Services]

==Cabinet Restoration==
The following a links to various articles concerning the repair of cabinet parts. [[Bondo]] is an excellent material for use in repairing damaged wood in cabinets.
*[http://girasoli.org/?p=104#more-104 Too Many Holes On That Control Panel ?]
*[http://www.multigame.com/cp.html Another "Too Many Holes" Page]
*[http://www.rgvac.com/restoration.asp?projid=19 pr0k's Control Panel Restoration Page]
*[http://www.wizzesworkshop.com/cart/missilecmd.asp Installing a replacement overlay]
*[http://www.rgvac.com/restoration.asp?projid=16 pr0k's Painting 101]
*[http://www.rgvac.com/restoration.asp?projid=10 pr0k's Stencilling a Stargate 101]
*[http://www.rgvac.com/paints.asp pr0k's Paint Codes For Classic Cabinets]
*[http://www.appolo.com/colorcodes/color_codes.htm More Paint Codes For Some Classic Cabinets]

==Game Manuals, Schematics and Repair Logs==
In addition to the dedicated sites below, manuals and schematics for many games may be found by looking the game up on [http://www.klov.com/ KLOV] and checking the listing for links to the manuals. These manuals are typically hosted on arcadedocs.com, which is not available as a dedicated site pending a relaunch.

*[http://www.basementarcade.com/arcade/library/manualentrey.html Basement Arcade]
*[http://www.gamemanuals.net/ Game Manuals Archive]
*[http://www.crazykong.com Crazy Kong]
*[http://pdf.textfiles.com/manuals/ARCADE Arcade Manuals on TextFiles.com]
*[http://arcarc.xmission.com/PDF_Arcade_Manuals_and_Schematics/ Manuals and Schematics on ArcArc]
*[http://www.geocities.com/jskils1/arcade.html Arcade Connection]
*[http://www.namco.co.uk/bandainamcogames/technical-manuals/namco.html Namco Manuals]
*[http://www.segatotalsolutions.com/manuals.php Sega Manuals]
*[http://www.seuservice.com/manuals.html More Sega Manuals]
*[http://www.brentradio.com/DipsAndPins.htm Dipswitch Settings And Pinouts] BrentRadio.com
*[http://www.mikesarcade.com/arcade/repairs/index.html Mike's Arcade Game Repair Logs] Also loads of manuals / dips / pinouts
*[http://www.2coinsperplay.com/Tech/Video/repairs/Repair%20Log.html 2CoinsPerPlay Repair Logs]
*[http://www.ukvac.com/tech/techlog.htm UKVAC's Technical Logs]

==Game-Specific Resources==
*[http://www.ionpool.net/arcade/asteroidtech/asteroidsrepair.html Asteroids]
*[http://www.ukvac.com/tech/techs/Defender.htm Defender]
*[http://www.arcadeshop.com/galaga/galaga.htm Galaga]
*[http://www.mikesarcade.com/arcade/repairs/galaga.html Galaga]
*[http://www.ionpool.net/arcade/williams/ranger_repair_log.html Joust / Robotron] Repair logs from Mike Ranger (aka Gravitar), *Williams guru
*[http://users.erols.com/mowerman/pacfile.htm Pac-Man]
*[http://www.mikesarcade.com/arcade/pacfix.html Pac-Man]
*[http://www.arcadegameover.com/pactrouble.html Pac-Man] Troubleshooting By Picture
*[http://www.ionpool.net/arcade/pac_man/Pac-Man_guide_v1.0.pdf Pac-Man Repair Guide] (PDF)
*[http://ppclone.blogspot.com/ Pole Position Clone Project]
*[http://www.brentradio.com/SpaceInvaders.htm Space Invaders]
*[http://www.arcadecollecting.com/dead/dead.html Suicide Battery Info]
*[http://girasoli.org/arcade/?p=202#more-202 Fixing the Lighting Effects in EDOT] Lighting in an Environmental Discs Of Tron cabinet
*[http://www.robotron-2084.co.uk/ Williams on robotron-2084.co.uk] Technical info for various Williams vids, using 4164 RAM, 8-way stick in Sinistar
*[http://www.2coinsperplay.com/Tech/Video/repairs/repair%20Logs/Williams/WilliamsHypeFix/RomBoard/ROM%20Board.htm Williams Interactive Troubleshooter on 2CoinsPerPlay]
*[http://arcarc.xmission.com/PDF_Arcade_Williams/ Williams Technical Info And Drawings]

==Monitor Repairs==
*[http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=45137.msg0#new BYOAC Monitor FAQ]
*[http://randyfromm.com/amusements/techdept/ Randy Fromm's Technical Department] Monitor Schematics, More Technical Info With Subscription
*[http://www.ionpool.net/arcade/capkits/capkits.html Monitor Repair - Bad Caps / Symptoms and CapKit Lists]
*[http://coinop.org/repair/Monitor_TubeSwap.aspx Monitor Repair - Tube Swap]
*[http://girasoli.org/arcade/?p=265#more-265 Straightening A Curl On A WG4600] nifty fix to an annoying problem
*[http://homearcade.org/BBBB/yoke.html Yoke Flipping]

==Multigames, Game Enhancements and JAMMA Adapters==
Some enterprising folks have developed add-on kits that can augment the functionality of original video games. Multigames allow original game boards to play other games in addition to the original. Game enhancements include High Score saving, free play and other gameplay enhancements. Some of these kits are actively stocked by [[vendors]] and some may require some hunting to find (in particular, Clay and Scott are no longer actively making kits for sale). JAMMA Adapters allow you to easily connect your old game PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) to a [[JAMMA]]-wired cabinet or Supergun. Adapters for many common games are available from a number of [[vendors]]

The list of links below is far from exhaustive and you should check with individual [[vendors]] to see if a kit or adapter is available for your game.

*[http://www.multigame.com/ESB.HTM Star Wars / ESB Multigame] Clay Cowgill
*[http://www-mtl.mit.edu/~mspaeth/pics/projects/SWESB/swesb.html Star Wars / ESB Multigame] Mark Spaeth
*[http://www.multigame.com/tempest.html Tempest Multigame] Clay Cowgill
*[http://www.multigame.com/sega_mul.html Sega Vector Multigame (Star Trek, Space Fury, Tac/Scan, Eliminator, Zektor)] Clay Cowgill
*[http://www.multigame.com/williams.html Multiwilliams] Clay Cowgill
*[http://www.multigame.com/qbert.html Q*Bert Multigame] Clay Cowgill
*[http://www.multigame.com/jamma.html MultiJamma - Switch between multiple JAMMA boards in a single cabinet] Clay Cowgill
*[http://www.mikesarcade.com/cgi-bin/store.pl?sku=DBLJAMMA Mike's Double JAMMA adapter] Mike's Arcade
*[http://www.arcademvs.com/ARCADE_ACESSERIOR.htm 4-Way JAMMA Switch] Y-Plus
*[http://www.mikesarcade.com/cgi-bin/store.pl?action=url&page=prod/ddk/ddk.html Double Donkey Kong] Scott Brasington
*[http://www.brasington.org/arcade/mcm/ Missile Command Multigame] Scott Brasington
*[http://www.brasington.org/arcade/cm/ Multipede] Scott Brasington
*[http://www.brasington.org/arcade/sim/ Space Invaders Multigame] Scott Brasington
*[http://www.brasington.org/arcade/adl/ Asteroids Multigame] Scott Brasngton - ''Project Currently On Hold''
*[http://www.brasington.org/arcade/hs/ High Score Save Kits] Scott Brasington - Asteroids, Battlezone, Congo Bongo, Donkey Kong, DK Jr, DK 3, Frogger, Mario Bros, Popeye, Zaxxon

==Repairing & Cleaning Old Controls==
* [[Yoke_Rebuild]]

==See Also==
* [[Basics]]
* [[Bondo]]
* [[Notes_on_converting_a_cabinet|Converting a Cabinet]]
[[Category:Basics]]
[[Category:Index]]

Yoke Rebuild

2007-09-23T04:55:39Z

Majorrockhardy:

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