Mechanical Memories Magazine

Now let's consider the Crusader's detection mechanism. In common with allwins, a
winning ball will be directed into one of three compartments, where it is held captive by
a pin protruding from a moveable aluminium casting. There are no ball levers, and the
only moving part attached to the control arm is a detent bar, which slides horizontally
when the control arm is moved. Mounted perpendicular to the detent bar is a shaft, at the
base of which is a cam that locates with a notch in the bar as the shaft rotates. In the
absence of a winning ball, if the player attempts to turn the payout knob, the control arm
will pull the detent bar slightly, whereby the cam (under spring pressure) will engage
with the notch and thus block further movement.
If a winning ball is present in any of the three compartments, a corresponding wire
detector will make contact with the ball as the shaft begins to rotate. The shaft is
prevented from rotating further, due to the obstruction of the ball, which thus prevents
the cam from engaging with the notch in the detent bar. The player is then enabled to
turn the payout knob fully, in the course of which the detent bar moves the aluminium
casting sideways, whereby (in the case of a 6 or 4 payout), the ball will drop to another
pin and be held temporarily. When one turn of the payout knob is complete, the detent
bar will move the casting back, and the ball will drop to the next position. At the end of
the payout sequence, the ball is returned for replay.
So, that's the Crusader. Not necessarily the greatest fun game to play, at least not if you
like to win, but nonetheless a fine example of 1930s British coin-op. An attractive
machine, thoughtfully designed and well made. In my view, a true classic.
Above, close up view, with the coin pot overflow chute removed, of the cam attached to
the vertical shaft, and the notch in the detent bar. Also in view, the bottom detector wire.
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