1976 Bally Flip Flop
Manufacturer : Bally
Year : 1976
Players : 4
Type : Electro-mechanical
Theme : Western
Production : 5,350 units
Status : Sold
Flip Flop (1976) is a 4-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine by Bally, known for its fully symmetrical playfield and unique “flip flag” target mechanic. Designed by Jim Patla, it stands out among 1970s EMs for its four-flipper layout and fast, controlled gameplay. With a Western-themed presentation and strong scoring potential, it blends classic EM simplicity with more advanced shot-making.
Game Features
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4-player electro-mechanical (EM) machine
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Released January 1976
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Manufactured by Bally
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Approx. 5,350 units produced
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Fully symmetrical playfield layout
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Four flippers (two lower, two upper)
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Two pop bumpers
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Two kick-out holes (upper left & right)
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Four “flip flag” stand-up targets (center feature)
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Mushroom bumper feature tied to target completion
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Side saucers that can award extra ball
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A-B-C style bonus progression system
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Double bonus (typically on ball 3 and 5)
Overview
Flip Flop revolves around its central “flip flag” targets—four stand-up targets that flip over when hit. Each completed target builds bonus value, and once all are flipped, a special mushroom bumper becomes active, awarding a high-value score (5,000 points) and resetting the targets to repeat the cycle.
The symmetrical layout, combined with four flippers, allows for unique cross-playfield shots and a more controlled style of play compared to many EM games. Players can transition between upper and lower flippers to maintain ball control and set up shots on the central targets or side saucers.
Side saucers alternate to award extra balls once certain bonus thresholds are reached, while ABC-style progression and double bonus features push scoring higher across later balls.
Overall, Flip Flop is a fast, skill-driven EM that rewards precision and control, with its mirrored layout and repeatable scoring loops making it both challenging and highly addictive.
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View Restoration Details Playfield (Top Side) • Fully disassembled, cleaned, waxed, and conditioned • New rubbers, lane guides, posts, bulbs, and pinball • New flipper bats • Standup switches and rollover switches polished and adjusted • Plastics cleaned and conditioned Playfield (Underside) • Complete flipper rebuilds (coils, stops, switches, links, springs) • Pop bumper assemblies rebuilt • All relays cleaned, filed, and properly adjusted • Stepper units fully disassembled, cleaned, and calibrated Cabinet & Bottom Board • New power cord and fuse holders • Bottom board fully disassembled and cleaned • Relays, step units, and score motor serviced and adjusted • Jones plugs cleaned for solid connections • Cabinet cleaned inside and out Backbox / Head • Scoring reels disassembled, cleaned, and properly adjusted • Stepper units and relays serviced • New bulbs installed Additional Work • Weak or burned coils replaced as needed • Coin door fully disassembled, cleaned, and polished with new coin entry plates • Chime box cleaned, polished, and rebuilt • Shooter assembly polished with new springs installed • Metal trim, side rails, and legs polished • New locks, bolts, and leg levelers/castors installed • New sheet of playfield glass installed • New bulbs installed throughout entire game Warranty ✔ 1-Year Warranty (local sales) ✔ One service visit included within first year (includes playfield waxing, rubber replacement if needed, and full function check)