Stern Ghostbusters pinball topper: what exists and how to source one
If you own or are shopping for a Stern Ghostbusters pinball machine and want the topper, the first question is which topper you mean. Stern made one official accessory for this game, and there are also third-party and homemade toppers. This page explains the machine variants, what a topper is, and how to avoid buying the wrong thing.
In this guide
Which Ghostbusters machine is this?
Stern released its Ghostbusters pinball in June 2016, designed by John Trudeau. It was built in three models: Pro, Premium and a Limited Edition run of 500 units.1 Premium and Limited Edition add the "Ecto Goggles" interactive ghost effect, which uses a Pepper's ghost illusion rather than a true hologram, plus magnetic "para-normal" slingshots and a subway ramp.1 Stern's own game page lists the same three editions and credits the artwork to Jeremy Packer (Zombie Yeti).2
There is also an older and unrelated Ghostbusters pinball history (and a 2017 digital version), so make sure a listing refers to the 2016 Stern game when you are matching accessories.1
What a topper is
A topper is an accessory that sits on top of the backbox (the upright cabinet section with the backglass) and adds lighting or a themed figure. Some toppers are purely decorative; others plug into the game electronics and react to play. They are options, not part of the base machine, so a Pro, Premium or Limited Edition does not automatically come with one.
The official Ecto-1 topper
Wikipedia states that optional official accessories were released for the game, including an illuminated topper based on the top of Ecto-1.1 That is the official topper to look for. Retail listings have cited the part number 502-7001-00 for it; confirm the number against Stern or an authorised distributor before ordering; it is not confirmed here from Stern documentation.
Points to check on any topper listing:
- Official or aftermarket. Look for Stern branding and a part number. Aftermarket toppers vary widely in quality and wiring.
- Which models it fits. Ask the seller to confirm it is for the 2016 Ghostbusters machine and which of Pro, Premium and Limited Edition it supports. Do not assume.
- Complete kit. An interactive topper normally depends on a mounting bracket, hardware and cables to the game electronics. Ask what is included, since missing brackets or harnesses are the usual gap on used items.
- Condition of the lighting. Test every lit element before paying, with the machine powered on in front of you where possible.
How toppers are mounted and powered
Mounting details differ by product. In general, a topper bolts or clips to the top of the backbox and, if it is interactive, connects to a power and control connection inside the head. Because wiring inside a pinball backbox carries mains-derived and high-current supplies, follow the instructions supplied with the topper and your game's manual, power the machine off and unplug it before opening the backbox, and use a qualified technician if you are unsure.
Where to get official parts and documentation
- Stern support provides game manuals, service bulletins and a technical support portal, and lists a support email and phone line on its support page.3 Have your serial number ready, which Stern says is on the inner left cabinet wall or the back of the game.3
- Stern's shop and authorised distributors are the route for new official accessories. Stern's game page notes that the Ghostbusters models were sold out when it was read, so availability of accessories can change; check live listings.2
- Pinball community boards such as Pinside and Pinball Info have topper threads and wanted ads. Treat what members write as owner opinion and check any claim about fitment against Stern's documentation.
Should you buy a topper at all?
A topper changes the look of the backbox and, for an interactive one, ties into the game software and electronics. The effect on playing the game is cosmetic. If your goal is better play rather than appearance, reviewers have pointed to other areas: one review notes the wide flipper spacing makes the game punishing and that code problems at release took until 2019 to resolve.4 Make sure your game is on current code regardless of what sits on top.
Notes for the 2016 machines
Stern states the game runs on 60-cycle electricity and is for North America only; it will not run on 50-cycle systems such as Europe or the UK.2 That matters if you are importing a machine or topper.
Ask for a demonstration of the topper you are buying
For a used Ghostbusters topper, request a short video showing the actual accessory installed on the seller's machine. Ask to see it illuminated and responding during play, followed by a close-up of the supplied wiring and mounting pieces with the machine switched off. A manufacturer's promotional clip shows the intended effect; it does not establish the condition of a particular used kit.
| Evidence | What to check |
|---|---|
| Overall installed view | Size, appearance and any visible damage to the housing |
| Powered demonstration | Whether the described lighting effects are working |
| Kit laid out off the machine | Mounting components, harnesses and instructions included in the sale |
| Identification and original paperwork | Whether it is the advertised official or aftermarket product |
Stern's manual directory provides a Ghostbusters Pro manual and a separate Premium/LE manual.5 Use the appropriate edition when discussing the accessory with a technician. A second-hand wiring modification should be explained, not accepted because the lighting happens to turn on.
Can I buy a topper before owning the machine?
You can compare appearances, but establish the intended game's edition, configuration and accessory requirements before committing. Storage, packaging and the availability of missing kit components also belong in the decision.
What if a listing includes only the decorative housing?
Treat it as an incomplete accessory. Obtain a price and availability check for the missing pieces before paying; the cost of turning it into a working kit matters more than the price of the visible shell.
Video demonstrations
Ghostbusters Pinball Topper Review and Install
Sources and further reading
- Ghostbusters (pinball), Wikipedia: release date, designer, models and optional official accessories.
- Ghostbusters, Stern Pinball: manufacturer game page (editions, artist, 60-cycle note).
- Support, Stern Pinball: manuals, service bulletins and contact details.
- Ghostbusters pinball Machine review, Pinball Mag: review noting flipper gap and code issues.
- Game Manuals, Stern Pinball: manufacturer operation and parts manuals by game and edition.