Blackout On Brunswick A-S Pinsetter: Causes And Fixes

There are many reasons why a blackout may occur on a Brunswick A-S pinsetter. Some of these issues include a missing roller that contacts the protrusion on the indexing cam, a missing x-pin, or a belt off. It could also be due to a problem with the pin flow, such as an interruption or a lack of 10 pins on the lane surface.

Malfunctioning cross conveyor microswitch

A malfunctioning cross conveyor microswitch can be a common issue with Brunswick A-2 pinsetters. The cross conveyor is responsible for moving the pins and balls around the machine, and a faulty microswitch can cause issues with this process.

One issue that can occur is a "blackout", where the machine loses power and stops functioning. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a faulty microswitch. In some cases, the microswitch may not be properly aligned, causing the machine to shut down. In other cases, the microswitch may be faulty or damaged, and need to be replaced.

To troubleshoot a malfunctioning cross conveyor microswitch, there are a few steps that can be taken. First, check the wiring and connections to the microswitch, as loose or faulty wiring can cause issues. If the wiring appears to be intact, the next step is to check the alignment of the microswitch. On older pinsetters, the cable for the microswitch loops through the cross conveyor belt, and if this is not aligned properly, it can cause issues. On newer pinsetters, the cable goes around the cross conveyor belt, and the electrical box may need to be adjusted if it is too far to the left, causing the belt to get stuck.

If the issue is not with the alignment, the microswitch itself may be faulty and need to be replaced. This can be done by removing the old microswitch and installing a new one, ensuring that the wiring is connected properly. It is important to note that different types of microswitches are used on different models of pinsetters, so it is important to use the correct replacement part.

In addition to microswitch issues, there are other potential causes of blackouts on Brunswick A-S pinsetters. These include issues with the distribution board, incorrect sweep switch wiring, and problems with the electrical box or connections. It is important to troubleshoot and identify the specific cause of the issue to ensure that it is properly resolved.

Misadjusted turnaround pan

A misadjusted turnaround pan is one of the causes of a pin head first issue. The turnaround pan is a major component at the rear of the Brunswick A-2 pinsetter, and its function is to permit pins to always send the base of the pin toward the turret on the cross conveyor assembly.

A misadjusted turnaround pan can also cause a turn pan jam. To troubleshoot a misadjusted turnaround pan, one must refer to the Brunswick A-2 Pinsetter Service Manual. This manual contains a complete description of the operation, maintenance, and repair of the Brunswick Automatic Pinsetter, as well as detailed information concerning the overall administration of an efficient pinsetter program for all bowling establishments.

The manual will provide detailed instructions on how to adjust the turnaround pan to ensure it is correctly calibrated and functioning optimally. It is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid causing further issues with the pinsetter.

In addition to referring to the service manual, it may be helpful to consult with a qualified technician who has experience with Brunswick A-2 pinsetters. They can provide expert advice and guidance on adjusting the turnaround pan and ensuring the machine is operating correctly.

By following the instructions in the service manual and seeking expert advice when needed, bowling alley operators can help ensure their Brunswick A-2 pinsetters are well-maintained and provide a smooth and enjoyable experience for their customers.

Missing turn pan cam

A "Missing turn pan cam" is one of the causes of a pin head first issue on a Brunswick A-2 pinsetter. This is a problem that can be caused by a mis-adjusted turnaround pan, a mis-adjusted pin guide, a bad pocket in a pinwheel, or a missing turn pan cam.

A "turn pan jam" can be caused by a missing or broken turn pan cam. This is one of nine potential causes, including a malfunctioning cross-conveyor microswitch, a mis-adjusted turnaround pan, a mis-adjusted pin guide, a mis-adjusted spring wiper assembly, bad leaf springs, oil on the CC belt, and a CC belt that is too tight.

A "180 STOP" is a common issue with pinsetters, where the pinsetter's gearbox clutch stops the gearbox at 0 degrees, so the pinsetter waits for the bowler to deliver the next ball. If the deck assembly does not have a full set of ten pins ready, the clutch will disengage and stop the gearbox at 180 degrees. This can be caused by pins jammed in the pin guide, pins jammed at the turn pan, a pin resting on the trip lever, a pin gate failing to open, or a ball spinning on the ball wheel.

To clear a "180 STOP", turn the machine off and rotate the pinwheel in the reverse direction, relieving pressure at the jam. This will allow the pins to be removed from the turn pan.

There are several other issues that can occur with a Brunswick A-2 pinsetter, including ball problems, turret problems, gearbox problems, detector problems, electrical problems, and miscellaneous problems. Some examples include balls that are nicked or damaged, balls that do not return, pins that drop when the deck is full, pins that stay in the pit, the pinsetter shutting itself off, and loud noises or clatter from the pit area.

Defective mechanics switch

A pinsetter failing to trigger can be caused by a defective mechanics switch. This is one of ten possible issues that could be causing the problem. The other potential causes are:

• A defective bowlers reset switch
• A defective ETU/TDM board/assembly
• A defective machine trigger solenoid
• A defective camera board reset relay
• A defective infrared ball detect
• A defective rake microswitch in the electrical box
• A defective rake microswitch control lever
• An inverted rake trigger linkage
• A defective gearbox reset linkage

If you are experiencing this issue, it is recommended that you seek training from a professional with experience in bowling equipment maintenance.

Defective bowlers reset switch

A defective bowlers reset switch can cause a pinsetter to continually reset. This is one of many potential issues that can cause this problem. Other potential issues include:

• A shotgun link misadjustment
• An inverted curtain causing the rake trigger link to hit a ball under or on top of the pit cushion, preventing proper rake linkage operation
• A solenoid stuck closed (unit is hot)
• A mechanical rake switch broken
• An OOR link causing the solenoid linkage to bind
• A bind in the linkage causing the reset lever to miss the stop lever

If you are experiencing a continually resetting pinsetter, it is recommended that you consult a trained professional to diagnose and address the issue.

Frequently asked questions