Fixing dim AND even DEAD Gottlieb System 1 & 80 Pinball Displays

This topic has been covered but I never knew that I could bring a dead display back to life. Here is how!

[@RedKatKatII]

Thanks a lot !

[@pinballshenanigans]

You are welcome!

[@danijelcar5184]

Nice repair on that displays, I have one Gottlieb sys80b display MA-999 and is a litle dimm is there way to burn filament on those displays also to make it brighter again?

[@pinballshenanigans]

Not sure on those displays but I dont think so for some reason. Maybe ask TNT amusements. I had dim sys80 display before and changing the backbox tube to LED I think is what solved it for me.

[@jeeptrail08]

So what you are doing is similar to rejuvenation of a CRT. It doesn't last very long. The black spots are referred to as a getter. If they are white that means the display has gone completely to air ie vacuum is gone. Being black doesn't mean it isn't gassy. By burning the filament hot like that again is just a short term fix from my experience over the years

[@pinballshenanigans]

Ah right on, very informative! Thanks!

[@snextime]

Todd also said just leave the game on a few days and they rejuvenate also.

[@pinballshenanigans]

Ahh I think I recall that. I wouldn't trust a machine on for 3 days unless it was supervised incase some coil decides to lock on.

[@offoxxx]

What are the specs of external power supply for rejuvenate the vfds?

[@pinballshenanigans]

Not sure but is has 5v and 12v options!

[@offoxxx]

Thanks