Kicker & Slingshots
Hardly any other component creates as many surprising moments of play as kickers and slingshots. They accelerate the ball at lightning speed, create dynamic changes in direction, and give every pinball machine its distinctive flow of play. Since these assemblies are triggered countless times during nearly every game, they are among the most heavily used components of a pinball machine. At PU-parts, you’ll find high-quality kickers, slingshots, and matching replacement parts for numerous pinball machines from Stern Pinball, Williams, Bally, Data East, Sega, Gottlieb, Jersey Jack Pinball, and many other manufacturers.
Kickers and slingshots provide speed and action
Kickers and slingshots are among the most important active elements on the playfield. While kickers propel the ball back into play from recesses or kickout holes, slingshots—along with the flipper fingers—ensure rapid changes in direction and a dynamic playing experience. Both systems use powerful coils that are triggered within a few milliseconds.
Due to the high number of actuations, all components are subject to natural wear and tear. Plungers, coil stops, sleeves, springs, launch arms, and mounts should therefore be checked regularly. Even minor wear can reduce launch force or lead to imprecise ball movements.
A well-maintained kicker and slingshot mechanism not only ensures an authentic feel but also protects adjacent components from unnecessary strain.
🔧 Workshop Tip:
During maintenance, also check the rubber rings, launch arms, and impact surfaces of the slingshots. Worn rubber or loose mechanical parts significantly alter the ball’s rebound behavior.
Replacement Parts for Reliable Kicker and Slingshot Mechanisms
In our product range, you’ll find numerous replacement parts for the repair and maintenance of your kicker and slingshot assemblies. These include, among other things, plungers, coil stops, coil sleeves, launch arms, springs, brackets, and other mechanical components necessary for reliable operation.
Especially in older pinball machines, worn mechanical parts often lead to weak ball ejection, irregular movements, or delayed activation. Replacing the affected components in a timely manner can permanently improve performance, play speed, and reliability.
High-quality replacement parts ensure that kickers and slingshots operate with their intended force again, delivering the original playing experience in every game.
🔧 Workshop Tip:
When overhauling kickers or slingshots, it’s recommended to replace coil sleeves, plungers, coil stops, and return springs all at once. This ensures all components work together optimally and reduces the need for future repairs.
Compatible Kicker and Slingshot Replacement Parts for Numerous Pinball Machines
At PU parts, you’ll find high-quality replacement parts for Kicker and Slingshot assemblies in numerous pinball machines from various manufacturers and model years. Our selection is suitable for both minor repairs and complete restorations of classic and modern pinball machines.
Since designs, dimensions, and configurations vary by model, you should always check the compatibility of the respective components before purchasing. With precisely fitting replacement parts, you can restore the reliable operation of your kicker and slingshot mechanisms and enjoy a consistently fast, precise, and authentic gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pinball Kickers & Slingshots
What is the purpose of a kicker in a pinball machine?
A kicker actively launches the ball out of kickout holes, saucers, or other playfield features back into play. It creates fast ball movement, exciting gameplay, and is an essential part of many classic and modern pinball machines.
What are slingshots?
Slingshots are located on both sides directly above the flipper bats. When the ball strikes the rubber ring, a switch activates the coil, causing the kicker arm to fire and send the ball back into play at high speed.
Why are my kickers or slingshots not working properly?
Common causes include worn plungers, coil stops, coil sleeves, return springs, damaged switches, or dirty mechanical components. A faulty coil can also reduce performance or prevent proper operation.
When should kicker or slingshot components be replaced?
Replacement is recommended if the ball is ejected weakly, the mechanism responds slowly, produces unusual noises, or shows visible signs of wear. New replacement parts help restore reliable operation and the original gameplay experience.
Which parts are included in a kicker or slingshot assembly?
Depending on the assembly, common replacement parts include plungers, coil stops, coil sleeves, kicker arms, return springs, brackets, mounting hardware, and other mechanical components required for reliable operation.
Are kickers and slingshots machine-specific?
Yes. Their dimensions, mounting methods, and designs vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific pinball machine model. Always verify compatibility before purchasing replacement parts.
Can I repair kickers or slingshots myself?
Yes. Many common wear parts can be replaced with basic mechanical knowledge and the proper tools. During maintenance, it is also recommended to inspect the coil sleeve, coil stop, springs, and all moving parts for wear.
Which pinball machines are replacement kicker and slingshot parts available for?
PU parts offers kickers, slingshots, and related replacement parts for many pinball machines from Stern Pinball, Williams, Bally, Data East, Sega, Gottlieb, Jersey Jack Pinball, and many other manufacturers.