Claw strength is not one universal percentage. Before adjusting it, identify the machine, installed mainboard and claw mechanism. A setting that works on one cabinet may behave differently on another, even when the menu labels look similar.
This guide explains how to interpret strength controls and prepare an adjustment. For a step-by-step observation and testing process, use our claw strength testing guide.
Grab Strength and Hold Strength Are Different
On boards that support separate controls, grab strength affects the claw when it closes around a prize, while hold strength affects how it carries the prize. Other boards use different labels or control sequences. Read the manual for the exact board rather than translating one machine's menu directly to another.
A displayed percentage is a board setting, not a measured grip force or a guaranteed chance of winning. Prize shape, surface, placement, claw geometry and mechanical condition also affect the result.
Identify the Board Before Opening Its Settings
Record the board model and version, photograph the current settings, and locate its matching operator instructions. Use the documented menu-entry procedure; there is no universal service-button hold time.
If you use a Hiclawcrane Classic mainboard, compare your board with the Classic Mainboard Parameter Menu before following its instructions. If the board or manual does not match, confirm the correct documentation first.
Do Not Start With Universal Percentages
We do not recommend a blanket grab-strength or hold-strength percentage for all home or commercial machines. Nor should a generic guide prescribe a strong-grab cycle every few plays. The available controls, their units and their behavior depend on the installed board.
Start from the machine's documented configuration. Record a baseline using the intended prizes, change only one supported setting at a time, and keep a record of the result. Do not change electrical supply voltage to compensate for a weak grip.
Check the Mechanism Before Raising Strength
A claw that drops prizes may have a mechanical, positioning or wiring issue rather than an incorrect setting. Follow the service instructions to inspect the claw fingers, moving joints, lift cable or string, connectors and travel clearance.
Do not assume every claw has user-adjustable tension springs. Only adjust a mechanical feature when the manufacturer documents the procedure for that exact claw. Disconnect power before handling parts or connectors, keep hands clear of moving mechanisms, and seek qualified help for unfamiliar electrical work.
Prize Delivery Is Not a Guaranteed Win Rate
Where a board includes payout-related settings, distinguish them from grip controls. A menu setting does not guarantee one prize in a fixed number of plays. Assess actual play and prize-delivery records alongside prize cost, maintenance and applicable local requirements.
A prize falling during travel is also different from a prize failing to reach the chute. Observe the stage where the problem occurs before changing parameters.
When to Stop Adjusting
Stop if the claw behaves unpredictably, wiring or parts become unusually hot, or the documented controls do not produce the expected behavior. Do not keep increasing settings to mask a fault. Contact the supplier with the board model, current settings, prize details and a short video of the symptom.
For Hiclawcrane equipment, contact our team with those details so we can help identify the appropriate documentation and next checks. If a replacement is needed, confirm compatibility before selecting arcade spare parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage should I use for claw strength?
There is no reliable percentage for every machine. Use the exact board's instructions and test with your intended prizes. A displayed percentage is not a universal measure of gripping force.
Should hold strength always be lower than grab strength?
Not as a universal rule. Confirm whether your board supports separate controls and how the manufacturer defines their behavior.
Can I tighten springs to make any claw stronger?
No. Claw mechanisms differ, and not every spring is an adjustable grip control. Follow the specific mechanism's service instructions.
Does increasing strength guarantee more prize deliveries?
No. Placement, prize shape, mechanical condition, travel and board behavior all influence delivery. Diagnose the observed problem before changing settings.