Claw Machine Kit Installation Guide – Step-by-Step Assembly | Hiclawcrane

Claw Machine Kit Installation Guide

This guide walks you through the complete assembly process for Hiclawcrane DIY claw machine kits (25.7cm, 53cm, and 71cm). Follow each step in order for a smooth, successful build. If you need additional support, our technical team is available via email or WhatsApp.

Before You Begin

  • Unbox all components and verify against the packing list included in your kit
  • Prepare a clean, flat workspace with adequate lighting
  • Have a screwdriver set, wire stripper, and multimeter ready
  • Read through the full guide before starting assembly
  • Ensure power is OFF throughout assembly until the final test step

Step 1: Prepare the Cabinet

Before installing any components, ensure your cabinet or enclosure is ready:

  • Confirm cabinet interior dimensions match your gantry size (25.7cm, 53cm, or 71cm)
  • Mark the mounting positions for the gantry rails on the cabinet walls
  • Pre-drill mounting holes if required by your cabinet design
  • Ensure the cabinet base is level and stable

Step 2: Install the Gantry

The gantry is the X/Y axis movement system that controls the claw position.

  • Mount the horizontal rail (X-axis) to the cabinet walls at the marked positions
  • Attach the vertical rail (Y-axis) to the X-axis carriage
  • Secure all mounting bolts firmly — do not overtighten stainless steel fittings
  • Verify the gantry moves smoothly along both axes before proceeding
  • Attach the claw mechanism to the Z-axis drop cable

Step 3: Mount the Mainboard

The mainboard controls all machine functions including claw strength, timing, and coin settings.

  • Use the L-type PCB protection feet (included) to mount the mainboard — do not place it directly on metal surfaces
  • Mount the mainboard in a ventilated area away from direct heat sources
  • Secure with the provided screws
  • If using an LCD mainboard, position the display panel for easy operator access

Step 4: Connect the Power Supply

  • Mount the power supply unit in the cabinet
  • Connect the AC input wires (100–240V universal) to your cabinet's power inlet
  • Connect the DC output wires to the mainboard power input terminals
  • Double-check polarity before proceeding
  • Do NOT power on yet

Step 5: Install the Coin Acceptor

  • Mount the coin acceptor(s) in the designated slot on the cabinet front panel
  • Connect the coin acceptor signal wire to the mainboard coin input port
  • Connect the power wire to the power supply output
  • For dual coin acceptors (53cm and 71cm kits): connect both units in parallel
  • Refer to the wiring diagram in your electronic instruction manual for pin assignments

Step 6: Connect the Joystick and Buttons

  • Mount the joystick on the control panel at a comfortable player height
  • Connect the joystick directional wires (Up/Down/Left/Right) to the corresponding mainboard terminals
  • Mount the push button(s) on the control panel
  • Connect button wires to the mainboard button input ports
  • For the 25.7cm mini kit: connect the colorful push button and setting button separately

Step 7: Install the Speaker and Lighting

  • Mount the speaker inside the cabinet — avoid placing near heat sources
  • Connect the speaker wires to the mainboard audio output
  • Install LED running lights along the cabinet interior frame
  • Connect the flash board and display board to the mainboard
  • Route all wiring neatly using cable ties to avoid interference with moving parts

Step 8: Install the Prize Sensor

  • Mount the prize sensor at the prize chute exit point
  • Connect the sensor signal wire to the mainboard prize sensor input port
  • Adjust sensor sensitivity using the setting button on the mainboard

Step 9: Install the Anti-Shaking Device (LCD Mainboard Kits Only)

The anti-shaking device is included with kits that come with an LCD screen mainboard, regardless of gantry size (25.7cm, 53cm, or 71cm). If your kit includes a standard mainboard, skip this step.

  • Attach the anti-shaking device to the gantry carriage as shown in the instruction manual
  • Connect the anti-shaking device wires to the designated mainboard port
  • This stabilizes the claw during movement for smoother, more consistent gameplay

Step 10: Final Wiring Check

  • Review all connections against the wiring diagram in your electronic instruction manual
  • Ensure no wires are pinched by moving parts
  • Verify all connectors are fully seated
  • Check that the voltmeter is connected to monitor power supply output

Step 11: Power On and Test

  • Power on the machine and observe the mainboard startup sequence
  • Test joystick movement in all four directions — the gantry should respond correctly
  • Test the push button — the claw should drop and return
  • Insert a test coin and verify the coin acceptor registers correctly
  • Adjust claw strength using the mainboard settings menu
  • Test the prize sensor by manually triggering it
  • Verify all LED lights and the display board are functioning

Step 12: Adjust Claw Strength

Claw strength directly affects prize payout rate and machine profitability.

  • Access the mainboard settings menu (refer to your instruction manual for button sequence)
  • Adjust the strong grab strength (initial grab) and weak hold strength (return journey) separately
  • Test with actual prizes to calibrate for your target payout rate
  • For commercial use: a typical starting point is 70–80% strong grab, 30–40% weak hold

Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Solution
Gantry not moving Motor wiring loose or mainboard not powered Check motor connectors and power supply output
Coin not registering Coin acceptor sensitivity too high/low Adjust coin acceptor sensitivity dial
Claw not dropping Button wiring incorrect Verify button wire connections on mainboard
No sound Speaker wires disconnected Check speaker connector on mainboard audio port
Display not showing Display board connector loose Reseat display board connector
Machine powers off randomly Power supply overload or loose AC connection Check AC input wiring and power supply load

Need More Help?

If you encounter any issues not covered in this guide, our technical support team is ready to assist:

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