Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question you’d like to ask us? Check out our FAQs below and see if we’ve already answered it. If not, feel free to give us a call at 0151 420 0006, or just drop us a message.
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We will note the delivery postcode (please advise if it differs from the one on Ebay) & then schedule the delivery. We let you know nearer to the time of delivery so don’t worry if you do not get a delivery date straight away. Once we have booked the delivery day we will contact you through Ebay to advise on the day and a rough time slot. You MUST advise us if there are any issues with the date time or with access.
We normally use small vans or a Luton van. You must also ensure you are available to take the delivery and assist unless otherwise agreed. Deliveries can take between 2-7 working days from the point of order.
Our driver will help you with the machine and may be able to help you put it in the desired location within a garage, games room or property but all social distancing rules must be followed and PPE worn where possible. We can refuse to deliver if there is a risk to you or us and you may still incur charges. Most machines weigh as much as a fridge freezer (100kg +) so please let us know if you are unable to help.
It is vital you disclose any and all access obstacles which might include:
- Steps or stairs.
- Gravel or grass paths.
- Gates and narrow doors.
- Parking restrictions.
Please note the dimensions and ensure the machine will fit BEFORE committing to buy as we reserve the right to retain the delivery charge on any failed delivery due to non-disclosure or the item being too large.
We will not accept any liability for any injuries or damage caused if we have been asked to enter a private residence.
This can vary depending on what we are selling of course, but in general, all our machines are tested using the standard machine test procedures. This may include coin & payout tests, lighting and switch tests, sound tests, motor or solenoid tests, PAT tests and safety tests. We also carry out a cosmetic assessment and refurbishment, which includes sanitising, cleaning, painting and repairing any surface blemishes. To finish off the refurbishment process, we complete a final soak test and live play test to ensure everything is working as it should.
The dongle is a small plug-in device that allows the machine to function and is used on Bellfruit and QPS machines. Other manufacturers’ machines don’t use dongles.
It plugs in like a USB stick and the cost of the dongle can vary depending on the age of the machine. Newer machine dongles can cost £200 for 12 months, and some models now over 3 years old have the option to buy an unlimited dongle at £150. When the dongle is used up, the machine locks up and errors unless a new dongle is inserted. It is a bit of an issue for home users, but all Bellfruit and QPS machines have these fitted, (if the machine was built after 2013) so unfortunately there is no avoiding it. Even free-play machines still need a dongle to function.
You may wish to contact our sales team for specific advice on a game dongle – We can supply virtually all BFM/QPS dongles.
The hoper dump switch is located at the bottom of the machine – it’s a small black plastic rocker switch (2 wires connected) near the plastic cashboxes or the left-hand side somewhere (open space).
The refill lock is normally located on the right of the payout tray, but this can differ between models – the key is a flat key numbered 87000.
Most of the points raised in ‘The Delivery Process – Our Vehicle’ section also apply to pallets, as well as the following:
The vehicle might be larger (up to 28 tonnes) and will have a tail lift, 1 driver equipped with a pallet truck. He will normally attempt to get the pallet as close as he can to where the machine is going to be situated, but this may mean in some cases it’s left on the curbside if there is no driveway etc. The machine needs to be removed from the pallet by cutting the pallet straps with scissors, and then you may be able to give the driver the pallet back (if you’re quick), or you may have to dispose of it yourself.
Pallets can come anytime between 8am-6pm, so you should arrange to be in all day as they are generally unable to give advanced notice on the day. The pallet network moves items quickly, so it’s not a bespoke delivery service, but rather a means to get it as close as we can to your doorstep.
If we suggest sending a pallet to you and this is NOT suitable PLEASE let us know. Again, failed deliveries may still be chargeable.
If you have any questions regarding this process please contact us.
You must be 18 years or older to purchase a gaming machine and it must be for home use only – No permit is required if for non-profit.
Commercial venues can, in certain circumstances, buy their own machine, but we MUST have evidence of your MACHINE PERMIT & MGD registration number – You should be the owner of the premises and able to demonstrate the machine will be operated legally and that some technical repairs or modifications will require a person(s) with the appropriate licence to undertake.
Machine operators are entitled to purchase from us – We may need your licence details, unless we know you of course!
Any illegal use or suspected illegal use WILL be reported.
The best way to open your fruit machine top door is to rest your elbow on the plastic below the hold buttons (what we call the front moulding). Make sure you locate the correct key for the top door lock. Ensure the latch bar (metal tab that sticks out a little / located near the key to unlock the top door) is ALL the way to the right before starting to use the key. Put ALL your weight on the front moulding, and at the same time turn the barrel key (normally anticlockwise) and then slide the latch bar firmly to the left. The top door will then open, its just technique – DONT be scared of putting weight on the area under the hold buttons, as this takes the pressure off the lock a little making it much easier to open.
Do not force it / Do not panic – it might seem impossible but it WILL open – the more weight the better on the moulding!
No is the simple answer. They are NOT waterproof and they should be kept covered from moisture. Anything below 4-5 degrees and the cold may damage monitors, capacitors, solder spots or internal memory batteries.
Yes of course, the volume can be adjusted if you follow our guide. The % payout can also be adjusted if you purchase a switchable % key.
We would attempt to repair any faults over the phone with technical advice, then we may try to send parts and assist via a video call to fit these. Alternatively, for more local customers we may arrange an engineers visit. In the last resort we could collect repair & return or refund if the fault is serious.