Lermods - beleuchtete und interaktive Mods für Flipperautomaten

When Light Becomes an Integral Part of the Pinball Theme

Lighting serves several purposes in a pinball machine. It makes areas of the playfield visible, guides the player to key shots, and enhances the audiovisual presentation of the current game mode. At the same time, it plays a key role in determining how vividly characters, ramps, buildings, and other playfield objects are perceived.

A well-placed accent light can have a surprisingly big impact. A vehicle that looks more like a static decoration when unlit can appear much more lifelike with headlights or flashing warning lights. A character gains more presence with illuminated eyes, while a building appears more three-dimensional and detailed with appropriate interior or exterior lighting. Lermods specializes in precisely these kinds of modifications.

The modifications often focus on areas where a stock pinball machine already provides a good foundation, but where the respective theme can be further refined. Some mods add an object that was previously missing. Others replace a simple stock part with a more detailed version or use existing flashers and LEDs to create a new visual element.

A good modification doesn’t have to be as large or conspicuous as possible. Smaller changes, in particular, can enhance the overall look of a playfield if the color, position, and lighting effects complement the existing artwork effectively. An illuminated sign, a small siren, or an additional accent on a vehicle can be enough to make a previously unremarkable area appear significantly more interesting.

Interactive mods react to gameplay

Particularly interesting are modifications that do not remain lit constantly but react to signals from the pinball machine. Such interactive mods can, for example, light up in conjunction with a flasher, flash during specific gameplay events, or visually enhance existing light sequences.

This creates a closer connection between the mod and the actual gameplay. When a specific mode is activated or an important target is hit, it’s not just the pinball machine’s standard lighting that reacts—the additionally installed object can also become part of this effect.

A well-known example from the Lermods lineup is the interactive Tesla coils for Godzilla. The product takes a central design element of the pinball machine and enhances it with an eye-catching lighting effect. For *Avengers: Infinity Quest*, there are, among other things, illuminated or interactive depictions of Thanos, Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor. Other products feature vehicles, buildings, characters, or thematic symbols from games such as *Ghostbusters*, *Deadpool*, *Foo Fighters*, *Jurassic Park*, *Jaws*, and numerous other titles.

Such interactive enhancements typically do not alter the game rules or the pinball machine’s programming. Rather, they use existing light or control signals to activate an additional visual element that complements the gameplay. The pinball machine continues to play as intended, but in certain situations it appears more lively and more dynamically staged.

Illuminated Figures and Playfield Toys

Many modern pinball machines include three-dimensional figures, vehicles, or other toys. However, not every character central to the theme is available as a fully developed playfield object straight from the factory. Sometimes, a suitable spot is occupied only by a simple piece of plastic, a flat graphic, or a component with a technical appearance.

Lermods develops model-specific additions for such areas. A figure can visually conceal an existing mechanism, fill an open space, or depict a key scene from the respective theme. Integrated lighting further highlights the object.

For such a mod to blend in harmoniously, several factors must align. The size must not interfere with adjacent ramps, ball paths, or plastic pieces. The color scheme should be based on the pinball machine’s artwork. The lighting color must also match the surroundings so that the mod is neither too dark nor outshines other areas of the playfield.

Figures whose lighting highlights a distinctive feature are particularly effective. These include, for example, glowing eyes, weapons, tools, symbols, or energy effects. This approach does more than simply provide additional light; rather, the light serves to reinforce the object’s function or significance within the respective theme.

Flasher mods utilize existing light signals in a more targeted manner

Flasher modules generate short, bright flashes of light that a pinball machine uses to highlight important events. In many machines, they are located under transparent domes or plastic panels. A Lermods Flasher Mod can integrate this existing light source into a thematically appropriate object or distribute the light in a more targeted manner.

Instead of simply seeing a glowing plastic dome, the player perceives, for example, a siren, a warning light, a vehicle, a tombstone, or another element that fits the game. The flasher’s original function is retained, but its visual effect is more closely tied to the pinball machine’s theme.

Such products are often particularly interesting because they utilize existing electrical signals. Nevertheless, it’s essential to carefully check whether the mod complements the stock flasher, changes its position, or requires an additional power connection. Installation and electrical connections vary depending on the product.

The edition of the pinball machine can also be a deciding factor. A Pro version may have a simple flasher in a specific location, while Premium and Limited Edition models use an additional mechanism or a different type of plastic there. A mod designed for one version therefore cannot automatically be installed in another edition.

More Atmosphere with Backboard and Trough Lighting

Not all Lermods products consist of figures or large playfield objects. The product line also includes additional lighting for areas that were previously dark or only dimly lit.

Backboard lighting highlights the rear edge of the playfield with color. This makes the existing artwork more visible and gives the playfield greater visual depth. Depending on the pinball machine and the chosen color, the result is either subtle background lighting or a clearly noticeable accent.

Trough lighting kits illuminate the area where the balls are guided beneath or along the lower edge of the playfield. This area is relatively dark on many machines. Additional lighting makes the balls more visible and gives the lower edge of the playfield a higher-quality appearance.

Such lighting solutions alter the appearance without placing a large additional object on the playfield. They are therefore also suitable for owners who wish to largely preserve the stock character of their pinball machine but want to selectively enhance specific areas.

When choosing a light color, the decision should not be based solely on personal taste. Cool white can emphasize technical or futuristic themes, while warm white often pairs better with classic artwork styles. Red, green, blue, or other colors can highlight specific motifs but should harmonize with the pinball machine’s existing GI and RGB lighting.

Backbox Light Kits for More Even Illumination

In addition to the playfield, the backbox also plays an important role in the overall impression of a pinball machine. The translite or backglass carries a large part of the artwork theme and is constantly visible during play. However, uneven or insufficient lighting can prevent colors, characters, and lettering from being shown to their best advantage.

Lermods offers special backbox light kits that replace or supplement the standard light source. The goal is to achieve better and more even illumination of the translite artwork. Depending on the specific system, different areas can be selectively highlighted, rather than simply illuminating the motif with a single lamp or tube.

Even lighting is particularly important for Translites with large dark areas or high-contrast designs. If individual areas are too bright, details can be washed out. If the lighting is too dim, colors appear flat and certain designs visually disappear into the background.

Model-specific backbox kits take into account the design of the respective translite. Light sources are arranged so that central figures, logos, or other important motifs can be emphasized more strongly. This adds depth to the backbox without requiring any changes to the original artwork.

Different solutions are required for classic machines and modern star-style pinball machines. Dimensions, mounting points, existing lighting technology, and space constraints vary significantly. A backbox light kit should therefore always be specifically designed for the respective pinball model or corresponding design.

Full Backglass Illumination for Jersey Jack Pinball

Lermods offers so-called Full Backglass Illumination Kits for various Jersey Jack Pinball machines. These systems are designed to comprehensively and effectively illuminate the large-format artwork in the backbox.

Depending on the model and edition, Jersey Jack pinball machines feature elaborately designed backboxes with large-scale motifs. Customized LED lighting can make individual areas of the artwork more evenly visible and enhance the contrast between characters, logos, and backgrounds.

The product line includes solutions for Guns N’ Roses, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, The Wizard of Oz, The Hobbit, Pirates of the Caribbean, Toy Story 4, Dialed In!, and Harry Potter, among others. Since the backbox construction and artwork differ between these models, specific versions are required for each.

The same rule applies here: A similar format does not automatically mean that a kit can be used in multiple machines. Positioning, cable routing, and light distribution are tailored to the respective artwork. Therefore, only the lighting system explicitly intended for the existing pinball machine should be used.

Mods for Modern and Classic Pinball Machines

Lermods isn’t limited to current Stern pinball machines. The product line includes items for machines from various manufacturers and generations. In addition to modern Stern and Jersey Jack titles, pinball machines from Williams, Bally, and Data East are also supported.

As a result, the brand covers a wide range of technical requirements. A current SPIKE 2 pinball machine has different lighting electronics, wiring, and playfield construction than a WPC machine from the 1990s or an older Data East pinball machine. The products must therefore be adapted to the existing technology in each case.

In modern machines, mods are often integrated via pre-wired connectors, splitters, or model-specific connections. Older pinball machines may use different connector types or lighting circuits. Mechanical mounting also varies, as ramps, plastics, and playfield structures are made of different materials and feature different designs.

Especially with used pinball machines, it’s also important to consider that previous owners may have already made modifications. Additional LEDs, alternative plastics, protectors, or other mods may alter the available installation space. Before ordering and installing, it’s therefore recommended to carefully compare the product images with your own machine.

Why the Exact Pinball Title Matters

When searching for a suitable mod, it’s not enough to simply know the pinball’s theme. Some titles exist in different generations or were produced by different manufacturers. For example, a mod for Stern’s *Jurassic Park* is not intended for the older *Jurassic Park* pinball machine by Data East.

Reissues and remakes must also be distinguished from their original machines. Although “Attack from Mars” and “Attack from Mars Remake” have a very similar basic design, they may differ in terms of components, lighting, and mounting points. The same applies to other remakes of classic Williams and Bally titles.

With modern pinball machines, the edition is also a factor. Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models often use different ramps, mechanisms, and playfield toys. Some Lermods products are compatible with multiple editions, while others were developed exclusively for a specific version.

Before purchasing, you should therefore always compare the following details: full game title, manufacturer, edition, and the installation location specified in the product description. For illuminated products, you must also check the connection type and required accessories.

Installation without unnecessary modifications to the original machine

Lermods focuses on modifications that are as easy to install as possible and integrate seamlessly into the existing pinball machine. Many products utilize existing screws, mounting points, or plug-in connections.

A reversible installation is particularly important for collectors. If no holes are drilled, no cables are cut, and no original parts are permanently altered, the pinball machine can later be restored to its original condition.

Nevertheless, “easy to install” should not be confused with “ready to use without inspection.” Depending on the product, plastic parts may need to be removed, ramps raised, or cables routed beneath the playfield. Sensitive components, circuit boards, switches, and mechanical parts are located in the immediate vicinity.

Before beginning work, the pinball machine must be turned off and completely disconnected from the power supply. Next, the installation instructions should be read in their entirety. It is helpful to document the original condition and existing plug connections with photos.

Screws and spacers should be stored in an organized manner. The original order is particularly important for multi-layered plastic assemblies. An incorrectly installed spacer can cause a plastic component to be under stress or alter a ball’s path.

After assembly, check that all ramps, targets, spinners, gates, and moving toys function freely. Cables must not be located near coils, levers, or other moving components. The playfield should then be checked manually before starting a full game.

Safe Power Supply for Illuminated Mods

An illuminated mod requires a suitable power connection. It’s not just a matter of the plug fitting mechanically; the voltage, polarity, pin configuration, and current rating must also be correct.

Depending on the pinball machine and product, a mod can be connected to an existing lighting connector, a flasher, an accessory connector, or a separate power kit. If an existing light signal is used, the new lighting can react in tandem with the corresponding game effect.

If the intended connection is already occupied by another mod, a compatible splitter may be required. Lermods offers various connection solutions for this purpose. A splitter splits the existing connection but does not generate any additional electrical power. If multiple devices are connected, the total load on the corresponding circuit increases.

Therefore, you should not use an unlimited number of Y-cables or splitters in series. Especially when using multiple illuminated mods, you must verify that the intended power supply is suitable for the total load.

Improper connections can trip fuses, damage LEDs, or cause malfunctions in the pinball machine’s electronics. If you are unsure, installation should be performed by a technically experienced person.

Select Different Light Colors Carefully

Some Lermods products are available in multiple light colors. The choice should align with both personal taste and the existing color scheme of the pinball machine.

A red light accent, for example, can enhance fire, warning signals, or menacing scenes. Green is particularly well-suited for radioactive, extraterrestrial, or chemical themes. Blue is ideal for ice, water, energy, or technical effects. Warm white can replicate the look of classic incandescent bulbs, while cool white creates a modern and crisp effect.

However, too many different colors can make a playfield look cluttered. Especially for pinball machines with dynamic RGB lighting, a constantly lit mod should be chosen so that it does not compete with the changing color programs.

Brightness is also important. A mod that is too bright can visually obscure nearby inserts or displays. Conversely, a very dim light may be lost amid the existing general illumination. Model-specific products are therefore usually more practical than universal LED solutions, as their position and effect are designed for the specific installation location.

Check Game Operation After Installation

After installation, the mod should first be tested with the machine open and under light load. Check to ensure that the lighting responds correctly, no cables become hot, and all connectors are securely fastened.

For interactive mods, the corresponding gameplay events should be triggered in the test menu or during a controlled play session. This allows you to verify whether the mod lights up or flashes at the right moment.

Next, check for mechanical freedom of movement. A decorative object must not narrow the ball path or obstruct the movement of a toy. Even a mod that is slightly misaligned can cause balls to get stuck or be deflected abnormally.

If errors occur after installation, the pinball machine should be turned off and the installation checked again. Common causes include reversed connectors, connections that aren’t fully engaged, pinched cables, or an incorrectly positioned mount.

Cleaning and Care of Illuminated Mods

Many Lermods products are made of multiple materials. In addition to plastic and 3D-printed components, they may include LEDs, cables, metal mounts, transparent light guides, or printed surfaces.

For regular cleaning, a soft brush or a dry microfiber cloth is usually sufficient. Dust should be removed without applying excessive pressure to avoid damaging delicate figures and small attachments.

Cleaning agents must not be sprayed directly onto the mod. Liquid can penetrate electrical components, connectors, or gaps. Alcohol-based or harsh cleaners can also damage paint finishes, prints, and transparent plastics.

If the playfield needs to be thoroughly cleaned, it may be advisable to remove delicate or easily detachable mods beforehand. This prevents a cloth from getting caught on a figure or lateral pressure from being applied to a bracket.

During maintenance, you should also check whether screws are still secure and whether cables are rubbing against sharp edges. Over time, poorly routed cables can shift due to vibrations and the repeated folding up of the playfield.

Lermods as a Targeted Upgrade Rather Than a Complete Rebuild

Not every pinball machine needs to be equipped with numerous modifications. Often, even a single, well-chosen mod can make a significant difference.

An interactive element in a central position on the playfield is more noticeable during gameplay than several small decorations in hard-to-see areas. Backboard lighting can make the entire playfield appear more spacious, while a trough lighting kit specifically enhances the lower section.

What matters, therefore, is not the number of mods, but how well they are coordinated with the existing machine. Colors, brightness, materials, and positioning should all complement each other. If multiple products are combined, it’s advisable to follow a cohesive design concept. This keeps the playfield uncluttered and preserves the pinball machine’s original character.

For collectors, mods that can be installed without causing permanent changes and later removed are particularly appealing. The removed original parts, screws, and mounts should be labeled and stored.

Buy Lermods at PU-parts

Lermods combines thematically designed playfield objects with striking LED lighting and interactive lighting effects. These products can enhance existing flashers, better illuminate playfield areas, or draw more attention to well-known characters and objects from the respective pinball theme.

At PU-parts, you’ll find a selection of Lermods products for numerous pinball machines from Stern Pinball, Jersey Jack Pinball, and other manufacturers. The product range includes, among other things, illuminated figures, interactive playfield toys, flasher mods, backboard lighting, trough lighting kits, and other lighting solutions.

When making your selection, be sure to note the full game title and the exact edition. Pro, Premium, Limited, and Collector’s editions can differ significantly in terms of ramps, mechanics, and mounting points. For illuminated mods, you must also consider the power connection, voltage, and any splitters that may be required.

A correctly selected and professionally installed Lermods mod does not alter the fundamental gameplay of the pinball machine. Rather, it enhances its visual presentation and can ensure that characters, artwork, and existing lighting effects are showcased even more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lermods