Hobbyists searching for Williams pinball parts are in luck: there are dozens of sites online that feature the original components for many of the legendary pinball manufacturer's original amusements. Whether you need plunger tips, rebound rubbers, bumper sleeves, or any other pinball component for your Williams machine, you can find what you need quickly and easily through any of the major search engines. But first, a bit about the Williams company.

Williams joined Gottlieb and Bally in the triumvirate of great pinball manufacturers in the hobby's "Golden Age." Along the way, Williams was responsible for a couple of key developments. One of these was the first talking machine, Gorgar, in 1979. By today's standards, a talking machine is nothing to crow about, but 25 years ago this represented a huge technological breakthrough.

More about Williams Pinball Parts

Williams also pioneered the "Magna-Save," a feature that allowed users to trap an extra ball using magnets on the playfield. It's hard to believe, but only a decade or so prior to this, laws on the books in many states made it illegal for game operators and designers to award replays. Ball-trapping was one way to steer clear of this legal dilemma.

If you have a Williams machine and are looking to return it to its former glory, rest assured that parts are cheap and relatively easy to procure. Many pinball repair shops will refuse to work on older machines for fear of damaging them. Others simply don't have the appropriate Williams pinball parts. But if you have a bit of vocational skill yourself, you may be able to do your own home pinball repair. If not, it may be best to leave your Williams machine in its original condition (provided it's functional) than risk tampering with an "antique."