Stuck reel assembly on a Bally Lightning Double-up 3 reel.

[Asurber]

I have been trying to pull the reels out of the machine to repair some wire, I have unlatched both levers but am unable to pull the unit out. Any suggestions or tricks?

[wolftalk]

once the latches are down, the only thing holding it is either crud in the rails or the plugs are corroded together.

I usually go for leverage at that point ... assuming you've already tried wiggling while pulling with your feet on the cabinet (or rounded up the anchor guy on the tug-o-war team to give it a shot).

[Asurber]

Thank you, I was really working it before but I just guess I need to step up my game!

[wolftalk]

last one I have that was really stuck I used a screw clamp in spread apart mode, but a piece of wood and a prybar usually works.

the main problem is the plugs/sockets float in their mountings, so rocking sideways doesn't transfer to the pins as much as you'd like.

if ya pull a pin out of the housing, or worse, crack a housing, not much you can do about it.  The thing needs to come apart, even if it means having to source a replacement plug/socket.  If ya just damage one pin, you can move the wires to a good unused one (if there is one), or you can swap the pins if you fiddle around figuring out how to release them from the housing.

[DavidLee]

Tilt the machine up in the front a couple of inches.
Apply penetrating oil on the front of the guides.
Do this a few times and let it set overnight.
Using a small screwdriver pry the reels chassis back and forth.
Apply more penetrating oil.
Before pulling on the reels, check both sides for any obstructions.

[Asurber]

Thank you, i'll try it!