DIY Arcade Game Repairs: Common Calls We Receive (and How to Fix Them Yourself)

DIY Arcade Game Repairs: Common Calls We Receive (and How to Fix Them Yourself)

At Bay Tek Entertainment, we know how valuable it is to keep your arcade running smoothly. When a game goes down, it doesn’t just affect the guest experience it impacts your bottom line. That’s why our Parts & Service team is always ready to help. But did you know many common issues can be diagnosed and resolved right in your game room?

In this blog, we’re sharing some of the most frequent troubleshooting calls we receive and how you can handle them yourself. These tips not only save you time and service calls, but also give you more control over your arcade’s uptime and performance.

Issue 1: Double-Check Voltages to Boards and Sensors

One of the most common root causes of arcade malfunctions is inconsistent or low voltage reaching critical components like I/O boards or sensors.

DIY Tip:

  • Use a multimeter to verify voltage at the board and sensor level

  • Refer to your game’s manual for expected voltage ranges

  • Ensure all connectors are seated securely

Proper voltage ensures all components function as expected and prevents issues that appear intermittent or hard to trace.

Issue 2: Quik Drop Auger Not Working

If your Quik Drop auger motor isn’t turning, the issue could stem from a sensor or power issue.

DIY Tip:

  • Unplug the ball fill sensor. If the motor activates, the sensor is likely faulty

  • If the motor doesn't turn on:

    • Check voltage going to the sensor motor drive board

    • Verify voltage going to the motor itself

    • Disconnect the motor and hook it up to 12V directly to test motor functionality

Swapping in a working sensor or motor temporarily can help isolate the faulty component.

Game 3: Big Bass Wheel "Door Open" Error

The Big Bass Wheel may sometimes display a persistent "door open" error, even when the door is fully closed.

DIY Tip:

  • Locate the yellow connector from the I/O board that leads to a 2-pin wire

  • Jump the 2-pin wire using a test clip or jumper cable

    • If the error disappears, the switch is faulty and should be replaced

    • If the error remains:

      • Check communication between the I/O board and the motherboard

      • Access the service menu to confirm connectivity

Simple wire testing can help determine if you’re dealing with a physical switch failure or a deeper board communication issue.

Issue 4: No Signal on PC Monitor Games

With many PC-based video games, a blank or "no signal" screen can cause panic. But often, the fix is simple.

DIY Tip:

  • Disconnect the software hard drive or SSD from the motherboard

    • If the BIOS screen appears, the issue is likely software-related

    • If the screen is still blank:

      • Verify power from the power supply to the motherboard using a multimeter

      • Look for POST LEDs or audible beeps that indicate startup status

These steps can help you distinguish between software and hardware failure quickly.

Issue 5: Tower of Tickets Reload Troubleshooting

With four player stations, Tower of Tickets Reload offers a built-in advantage: cross-part diagnostics.

DIY Tip:

  • Swap parts (like sensors, motors, or displays) from one station to another to isolate failures

  • Use the ribbon cables that connect the main board to each door board

    • Swap these cables at the main board to confirm which connection may be faulty

This modular design helps you pinpoint the problem faster and get the game back in play sooner.

Issue 6: Replace Worn-Out Parts Promptly

Don’t ignore signs of wear and tear. Many common malfunctions stem from delayed maintenance.

DIY Tip:

  • Keep track of part lifespans and replace them on schedule

  • Swap out worn sensors, belts, or actuators before they fully fail

  • Use Bay Tek certified parts to ensure compatibility and performance

A proactive replacement strategy reduces emergency downtime and improves overall game longevity.

Issue 7: Quik Drop – Broken Ball in the Hopper

If a ball breaks inside the top hopper of Quik Drop, it can cause repeated jams and affect overall game function.

DIY Tip:

  • If one ball breaks, replace all the balls in the game

    • Ball fragmentation can lead to inconsistent drops and sensor misreads

    • Uniformity ensures the auger and sensors operate as intended

Always stock backup balls and consider replacing them seasonally in high-volume arcades.

Why DIY Troubleshooting Matters

Learning to handle simple game issues on your own saves:

  • Valuable downtime hours

  • Costly service calls

  • Frustration for players and staff

Every hour a machine is down can mean dozens of missed plays – staying hands-on helps protect both guest satisfaction and revenue.

Bonus Tools to Keep On-Hand:

  • Multimeter for voltage checks

  • Spare ribbon cables, buttons, and switches

  • Small screwdriver set and hex keys

  • Jumper cables and test leads

  • Bay Tek service manuals and wiring diagrams (digital or printed)

These tools can turn a frustrating situation into a 5-minute fix.

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