Nintendo NES Console Repair
February 21, 2008 - 2:58 pm - Posted by Modern Classic Gaming
Most owners of the classic front-loading Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) are aware of the flaw its cartridge connector has, which eventually causes almost every NES to display a flashing gray screen instead of booting the inserted game. This is the error which was often temporarily resolved by blowing on the edge connector in the cartridge.
One easy, and more permanent solution to this problem is to replace the 72-pin edge connector inside the NES.
This how-to guide will help you disassemble your console and show you the areas you need to focus on when cleaning and repairing. No electronics skills are needed. Just remember to to take it slow and make sure not to pull too hard on PCB boards or connector wires.
Looking for a detailed walk through on cleaning your NES Cartridges?
Nintendo NES Console Repair Tools/Parts
- Phillips Screwdriver
- NES Connector 72 pin Nintendo Repair Part
- Non-Static Cleaning Pads
NES Console Disassembly
Turn your NES upside down. Remove the 6 screws indicated by the red arrows in the picture. Once the screws are loose, flip your console over again and you should be able to pull the top half of the case up. Be careful not to loose any screws!
With the top half of the case off, remove the RF shield. This is the big metal thing that covers most of the NES internals. Remove the 7 screws and you will be able to pull it up.
Remove the remain 7 screws indicated to detach the main NES PCB and cartridge mechanism from the enclosure. Make note of the silver screws and their location.
Slide the NES cartridge mechanism slightly forward, then lift it up and slide it away from the PCB.
The NES cartridge mechanism should slide right off of the NES 72-pin edge connector.
Gently lift up the PCB to make the 72-pin edge connector easily accessible, then remove the connector by pushing it in the direction of the arrows.
Here is the main NES PCB with the edge connector removed.
Replacing the Nintendo 72 Pin NES Connector
Push the new 72-pin edge connector on to the edge of the NES PCB.
When fitting the cartridge mechanism back on to the PCB, be sure to slide the bottom lip of it beneath the PCB, else things will not fit together properly.
After the replacement 72-pin edge connector is fitted to the NES PCB, ensure that the bottom shielding from inside the case is fit properly to the PCB, especially around the bottom connector.
Final Touches
I recommend testing the unit out with a game to make sure everything works before putting the casing and RF Shield back on.
Close everything back up and replace all the screws in their original locations. Be careful not to tighten them too much as they could strip the holes or break the mounts.
Still not having luck playing your favorite game? Remember, your NES cartridges need to be cleaned as well!