This articles explains stepper repair of a 1950′s Seeburg jukebox.  High voltages are present.  Repairs should only be attempted by a qualified technician. ©2010, Bob Putnak.

This article uses a stepper from a Seeburg C as the repair example, but the 160/200 play steppers found in late 50s and 60s Seeburgs are fundamentally the same concept.

The purpose of “the Stepper” (Step Switch & Relay Assembly) is to energize a selector coil and group solenoid in the jukebox pinbank according to the selection made on a 3W-1 Wall-O-Matic wallbox.  A 3W-1 is a remote selector that was installed at each diner table to promote jukebox play.

Stepper repair is straightforward, although many problems can arise.  The system is entirely electromechanical, and is based upon contacts opening and closing at proper times.  This article will explain how I approach stepper repair.

1.  You need a reliable working wallbox.  Do not try to fix a stepper by using a wallbox of unknown condition.  Don’t rely that someone told you that wallbox works.  If you have not seen the wallbox working with a stepper and pinbank, then the condition is still unknown.

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This article explains a more professional method to “free-play” a Rockola Princess Jukebox (model 1493). This theory can be adapted to many other jukeboxes, including other brands such as 1950s Seeburgs.

This method will: (1) not require any freeplay button, (2) prevent the Lock Bar Solenoid from energizing until the person begins selecting a song, and (3) keep the Select Light illuminated. Benefits: eliminates Solenoid noise during machine operation and standby, eliminates unnecessary solenoid wear, and increases usability and enjoyment of the jukebox.

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